001Barbara Lucille Livengood was born October 10, 1942 in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Howard Edward and Mary Lucille (Barrett) Watts. She passed away on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 68.
Barbara grew up in Topeka, Kansas and then later moved with her parents to the Bazine, Kansas area. Her high school years were spent at Enterprise Academy which is a Seventh-day Adventist boarding school in Enterprise, Kansas. On April 23, 1966 she was united in marriage to Kenneth Ronald Livengood. Ron and Barbara have three sons, Brian, Bret and Tim.
Barb was the owner/operator of a beauty shop in the Braddyville, Iowa area then later owner of the Clarinda Greenhouse in Clarinda, Iowa. She enjoyed quilting with groups in the Iowa/Missouri area and was a member for many years of the Scrap Happy Quilt Guild. She especially enjoyed attending quilting retreats with the different quilt groups and spent many enjoyable hours at the quilting retreat at the Wildbird Retreat at Mt. Ayr, Iowa.
She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Edward Watts.
Survivors include her husband Ron of Clarinda, Iowa; her mother Lucille of Clarinda, Iowa; three sons Brian Barker and friend Sharla of Taos, New Mexico, Bret Livengood and friend Jodi of Radcliffe, Iowa and Tim Livengood and fiancé Wendy of Ames, Iowa.; five grandchildren Joram Livengood of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jerrah Livengood of Kansas City, Missouri, Alykk Livengood of Clarinda, Iowa, Kayliss Livengood of Radcliffe, Iowa, Connor Livengood of Ames, Iowa; a sister Patricia Trayer of Denton, Texas; a brother Jerry Watts and wife Patricia of Wichita, Kansas; a brother-in-law Tom Livengood and wife Margaret of Braddyville, Iowa; a sister-in-law Ann Keever and husband Jim of Olathe, Kansas; along with many other relatives and friends.
Celebration of Life services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, June 4, 2011 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda with Jason Watts offering words of comfort. There is open visitation Friday & Saturday at the Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Braddyville Christian or Braddyville Methodist churches. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Clarinda, is in charge of arrangements. www.EFC.cc
002Alice Williams was born on a farm near Burlington Junction, Missouri, on June 30, 1908 to John and Effie (Hagey) Williams. She passed away, following a brief illness, at Shenandoah Memorial Hospital on June 1, 2011.

The Williams family lived and worked on the Colwell Ranch, south of Burlington Junction; and Alice attended a country school in the area through the eighth grade. In 1923 the family moved to Shenandoah, Iowa, to the house on South Avenue, where Alice lived until 2007 when she entered Garden View Care Center after a fall.

After attending Shenandoah High School for a time, Alice went to work in 1925, for the local branch of Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. She and her sisters, Edna and Jane, were longtime employees of the phone company. Alice retired from her position in the business office in 1971.

Alice was a lifetime member of the Telephone Company Pioneers of America. She was a faithful member of the First Christian Church, where she served on a variety of committees over the years and belonged to the Christian Women’s Fellowship.

Throughout her life, Alice loved to garden, read, quilt, embroider and do ceramics. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially angel food cakes (from scratch) and lemon meringue pies. She and her sisters enjoyed trips to visit their brother, Leo and his wife in Wyoming.

Alice was honored on her 100th birthday in June of 2008. Family and friends from near and far gathered to share good wishes and fond memories at a special reception. Alice’s family was very dear to her and she was happiest when she could be surrounded by them.

Two weeks after she turned 100, there was cause for more celebrating. Alice underwent successful knee-replacement surgery!!

During her time in Garden View Care Center, Alice served on the Resident Council and was an active participant in the activities there.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Floyd, Alvin, Leo, John, Nelson, and Virgil; and sisters Edna and Jane.

She is survived by her brothers Russell and Jesse of Shenandoah; other family and a host of friends
003Harold A. “Sandy” Mathis was born June 29, 1919 in Clarks, Nebraska, the son of Jess and Angie (Whitmore) Mathis. He passed away on Saturday morning, May 28, 2011 at the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita, Kansas at the age of 91 years, 10 months and 29 days.

Sandy spent his early years in Nebraska. His family moved to Iowa in 1929, where he attended school. From 1942 until 1946, he served with the 27th Infantry Division of the United States Army during World War II. On September 19, 1940, he was united in marriage to Jean Gardner in Rock Port, Missouri. This union was blessed with three sons; Larry, Mike and Rick.

Sandy worked as a welder in the construction business for many years. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, the Shriners and the American Legion. He enjoyed working outdoors in his yard and especially loved his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Howard, Ernest and Donald Mathis; and sisters-in-law, Lucille Mathis, Betty Mathis, Virginia Mathis and Carrie Mathis.

Survivors include his wife, Jean Mathis of Garden Plain, Kansas; his three sons, Larry Mathis of Mission, Texas, Mike Mathis and his wife Kim of Florida, Rick Mathis of Garden Plain, Kansas; eight grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; a brother, Kenneth Mathis of Shenandoah, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends
004Funeral services for Forland Hill, age 72, of Sharpsburg, who died Wednesday, June 1, 2011 in Union County will be held Monday, June 6, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. At the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be Monday morning from 9:00 AM until service time with the family greeting friends. Cremation will follow the service with private family interment of ashes to be held in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton. Memorials can be given in Forland’s name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Forland Francis Hill was born September 21, 1938 in Taylor County, Iowa, the son of Roy Francis Hill and Lida (Blane) Hill. He grew up attending Blockton Schools, graduating with the Class of 1957. Forland served two years in the United States Army from 1962 to 1964. On June 11, 1967 he was united in marriage to Donna Larson. Four children were born to bless their lives, Jeffery Allen, Gregory Lee, Kevin James and Kerri Jo. Forland was a laid-back, kind, hardworking and generous man. He always put his family before himself.

Forland farmed in Blockton until 1983 when they moved to Sharpsburg. He then worked for the Sheridan Egg Company in Lenox for several years. Later he went to work for J.L. Houston’s in Hopkins, Missouri sandblasting the tanks. He returned to Lenox to work for Michael Foods where he was ‘employee of the month’ several times. He worked there until his retirement. Forland also served on the Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Department. Forland loved and was very proud of his children. He especially enjoyed spending time with them and his grandsons.

Forland had little need for material possessions in life. He was a simple man who loved his family. Most times you would see him in scrubby clothing . . . .but when it came time to visit Kerri at school, you would see him dressed in a suit with his hair slicked back! He worked hard his entire life providing for his family. They enjoyed taking their dogs Clyde and Vador out for rides around the country side, often looking for mushrooms in the spring and finding their traditional single one! He liked the outdoors and bike riding. Many children will remember his big heart and the way he shared in their laughter. He was always known for taking his cap off and waving and hollering at the kids on the bus as the bus passed him on the highway. Forland’s way of saying goodbye was “see ya at the rodeo!” Forland always had a lot of stories to tell, especially about the pracital jokes and funny things he used to do.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend are his loving wife of 44 years Donna Hill of Sharpsburg; three sons, Jeff Hill of Sharpsburg; Greg Hill and wife Deanna of Creston; Kevin Hill and wife Jennifer of Grapevine, Texas; one daughter, Kerri Howard and husband Troy of Creston; five cherished grandsons, Marshall, Logan, Devon, Liam and Torin; two sisters, Ruth Good and husband Frank of Kansas City, Missouri; and Bonnadeene Amerine of Maryville, Missouri; along with many other family relatives and friends.

Preceding Forland in death are his parents, Francis and Lida Hill; a son, Bryan Scott; and a sister, Deloris Smith
005

Funeral services for Richard Fitzgerald, age 73 of Lenox, formerly of Bedford and Corning will be held Friday, June 2, 2011 at 10:00 AM at the Untied Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Visitation will be 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 in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Corning. Instead of flowers, the family requests memorials be given in Richard’s name. Memories may be shared with the family at www.ritchiefunerlahome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Richard Lee Fitzgerald was born October 21, 1937 to Orville “Pete” and Winnie (Miller) Fitzgerald in a Taylor County farmhouse west of Sharpsburg, Iowa.
He departed this life May 31, 2011 at the Clearview Nursing home in Mount Ayr, Iowa at the age of 73 years 7 months and 10 days.

Rich grew up in Taylor County attending rural schools and graduated in 1956 from Sharpsburg. After high school, he worked as a bookkeeper at Taygold Cooperative in Clearfield. He started farming with the help of a graduation gift from his parents – an Allis Chalmers tractor.

On May 17, 1957 he was married to his high school sweetheart Jeanie Brown at the Lenox Manse. Three children blessed this union: Ronald Dean, Christine Kay and Brian Lee.

Over the years, Rich enjoyed milking cows, raising hogs and cattle, and tending to row crops. He enjoyed the company of “the guys” whether it was farming or drinking coffee on rainy days. Rich farmed with Kenny Breach for 17 years and his son Ron for 8 years before moving to Charles City in 1985.
In 1986, he went to work for Crestland Cooperative where he managed the new Lenox branch. After several years, he became sales rep for the Co-op, covering Adams, Taylor and Ringgold counties. He retired in 2000.

Rich was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church, serving as an Elder for both the Sharpsburg and Corning churches. With Jean, they served as Youth Fellowship leaders.

His family was one of the most important treasures in his life. He looked forward to planning family vacations each year and making memories that would last forever. Rich liked playing cards and visiting with family and friends.

After he retired Rich enjoyed working in his woodshop and fishing. He looked forward to spending time with his friends at the Tiger Den.
Rich was a man of integrity and honesty. He was a great role model to his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

Left to cherish Rich’s memory is his wife of 54 years, Jean of Lenox; son, Ron (Susie) Fitzgerald of Bedford; daughter, Chris (Mike) Irvin of Bedford; son, Brian (Tamara) Fitzgerald of Prescott; grandchildren, Jason Fitzgerald, Brandi Cole, Jackie Ward, Michael Irvin, Jennifer Bruck, Elyse Moore, Jessica Fletcher, Makinna, Conner, Jaycee and Levi Fitzgerald; Great-grandchildren Ainsley, Austin, Allison, Ian, Alivia, Morgan, Kayden, Hartley, Nicholas and Kenley; numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, sister Joan Cordell, and great-grandson Hunter Cole
006

Funeral services for Helen Klopp, age 101, formerly of Bedford, who died Sunday, May 29, 2011 at the home of her daughter Coleen in Laurie, Missouri will be held Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be directed to the Untied Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Helen Jeane (Dorr) Klopp was born January 5, 1910, the daughter of Charlie and Nellie (Cobb) Dorr in Taylor County, Iowa. She grew up on the family farm south of Bedford. She graduated from the Bedford High School with the Class of 1928. Following graduation she taught country school for a year. On June 1, 1929, Helen was united in marriage to Alvin Leslie Klopp at the home of her parents south of Bedford. Two daughters were born to bless their lives, LaRue and Coleen.

In 1937, the family moved to Sioux City, Iowa where they lived for seven years. In 1945, they returned to the farm and lived south of Corning on Highway 148 for forty years. In 1994, the farm was sold and they retired moving into Bedford. Alvin passed away on December 6, 2002, and Helen went to live with her daughter Coleen in Laurie, Missouri.

Helen was a life-long member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She was a liberated woman long before they were fashionable, but she was dedicated to her husband and family. She was an excellent cook and baker, sewed clothing for her and daughters, and was known far and wide for her beautiful garden. She also worked at Turner’s Clothing Store for eleven years. She raised chickens and gave baby pigs their iron shots. She was involved in every facet of life on the farm.

Left to cherish Helen’s memory are her two daughters, LaRue Palmer of Livonia, Michigan; and Coleen Modglin of Laurie, Missouri; four grandsons, William Palmer, Jr., and wife Marilyn of Lyons, Colorado; Kevin Palmer and wife Sue of Livonia, Michigan; Daniel Palmer and wife Carol of Manitowoc, Wisconsin; and Sean Palmer and wife Donna of Traverse City, Michigan; eleven great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren, along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Helen in death are her parents, Charlie and Nellie Dorr; her husband of 74 years, Alvin Klopp; two sons-in-law, Bill Palmer and Russell Modglin; and her beloved granddaughter, Madelyn Ratigan, formerly of Versailles, Missouri
007

Funeral services for Barbara Hawn, age 71 of Bedford will be held Wednesday, June 1, 2011, at 2:00 PM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Central Iowa. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Barbara Delores (Thomas) Hawn was born in Iowa City, IA on June 2, 1939 the youngest child of Ansley (Tac) and Opha Ferne Thomas. She lived most of her life in Taylor County and spent many springs in Modesto, California with her parents, brothers Duane and Richard, Sisters Darlene, Luella, and Gloria as a migrant worker, harvesting tomatoes, apricots, almonds, peas, and cotton. She attended school in Bedford, IA where she enjoyed playing basketball. One of her only regrets was not graduating from high school. As a teenager Barbara loved to go to dances with her parents in Gravity, Malloy, and Clarinda where she loved to dance with her daddy and fondly remembers rubbing up against James Stewart at the Glen Miller Festival.

While on a date with Rexmon Hawn to the drive in theater in Clarinda, Rex said, “ I’m going to marry you.” And Barb simply replied, ‘I know!” They were united in marriage at the Bedford Christian Parsonage on October 16, 1955. Rex and Barb made their home in Bedford, Iowa and raised six children. She enjoyed being a housewife and raising their children. She never missed any of their sporting events or school functions. In 1970 Rex and Barb bought the trash route from Tac and Opha Thomas. Barb was the bookkeeper for the business and later drove the trash truck while Rex worked the back of the truck. Barb also worked at the Hamburger Inn, working for her sister Darlene where she enjoyed visiting with the customers.

Barbara was known for hugs and kisses to friends and family. She loved to go to the casino and play the slot machines. She always kept busy with her children and grandchildren attending sporting events and other activities. She rarely missed a Thursday night bingo until she was no longer able to attend because of her illness. She was very caring, compassionate, supportive wife, mother and friend.

In 2007 Rex and Barb retired and sold the business to Josh and Tara Weed. They were honored that Josh and Tara kept Hawn Sanitation as the name. Due to retirement Barb had more time to do the things she loved, especially watching the grandchildren’s sporting events and spending time at the casino.

During her battle with cancer, the passing of her daughter Brenda, and her second battle with cancer, she never complained and became very close to the oncology team at St. Francis. She also formed a special bond with her hospice nurse Amy. Family was the most important part of her life and right to the very end she would pucker up for kisses.

Barb was surrounded by her loving husband and children when she passed peacefully in the early hours on May 28.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband Rex; her children Debra Brumfield and Mike Fletcher of Bedford; Renee Walston-Albright and Mike Albright of Bedford; Boyd Hawn of Creston; Valerie Hawn of Tulsa, OK; Shannon and Donnie Weed of Bedford; Grandchildren Gary and Brenda Brumfield; Greg and Desirea Brumfield: Lanesa and Ryan Bhattacharyya; Chelsey Braymen; Jessica Walston, Jennifer Walston; Samantha Weed; Isaac Weed; Emily Weed; Abraham Weed; Elijah Weed; Asher Weed; Great-grandchildren Bailey Brumfield; Keona Brumfield; Gage Brumfield, Keaton Albright; Kyara Keller; Kaylynn Keller: Macy Daily; Preston Bhattacharyya; Teegan Braymen; Shaylee Braymen; Cayden Malson; Sister/niece Gloria Hawn; Lots of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Barb was a loving wife, mother, grandma, and great grandma, aunt and friend. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her
008

Graveside services for Marian Davison, age 95 of Clarinda who passed away Friday, May 27, 2011 at the Goldenrod Manor will be held Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at 10:30 AM at the Clarinda Cemetery. Open visitation will be held at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Clarinda on Monday from 3 to 5 PM. The family will greet friends Tuesday morning at the funeral home from 9:00 until service time. Memorials may be directed to the Shambaugh Church of God, Goldenrod Manor or Iowa Hospice. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com . Arrangements entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda.

Marian (Stickelman) Davison was born October 26, 1915 in Clarinda, Iowa the daughter of I.E. Stickelman and Jennie (Lister) Stickelman. She grew up attending school in Clarinda and was a member of the Church of God in Shambaugh, Iowa. On July 21, 1932 she was united in marriage to Wendell Davison. The couple spent their early years on the farm before moving to Clarinda in 1956. She worked at Clarinda Hardware, which was owned by her brother Keith for many years. She also assisted at the Walker Funeral Home. Marian loved to cook and was always trying new recipes. In 1954, she sent a cookie recipe to Better Homes and Gardens and it won a place in their Prize Tested recipes! After she was no longer able to cook, she enjoyed reading cookbooks.

Marian and Wendell enjoyed wintering in the south where they made many friends. Marian was an accomplished china painter and loved to knit, quilt, crochet and play cards with her friends. However, her favorite times were spent with her family.

Left to cherish Marian’s memory are her daughter Phyllis Kendall and husband Bob of Clarinda, Iowa; her son Dallas Davison and wife Connie of Garland, Texas; daughter-in-law, Ikie Lane of Shenandoah, Iowa; ten grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and many great-great-grandchildren; along with many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Marian in death were her parents, I.E. and Jennie Stickelman; her husband Wendell Davison in December of 2002; a son, Lyle Davison in January of 1974; a great-granddaughter Tracy; a great-great grandson Dalton; a sister Laura Hughes and three brothers, Orville, Howard and Keith.

Marian was a wonderful loving mother and grandmother.
Her family will cherish the memories they shared throughout the years
009

Leon Frederick Miller (who lived in Maryville, Missouri for 60 years) was born in Springfield, Missouri on June 2, 1919 –the oldest child of Marie Schultz Miller and Oscar H. Miller (a Frisco railroad clerk), who predeceased him.   Both were of German heritage.  Leon F. Miller died in Springfield on May 28, 2011. 

 

Leon was married for 65 years to his devoted wife, Mary Belle Harmon Miller, who survives him.  They were proud of their daughters, Carol and Gayle.  Their younger daughter, Gayle Miller Bilden (a graduate of NWMSU in chemistry) died in a car accident in 1979.   Leon is survived by their older daughter, Carol J. Miller, who has been a business law professor at Missouri State University in Springfield since 1984.  Even during his final days, Leon still knew Mary Belle and Carol and frequently told them how much he loved them. 

 

Leon is also preceded in death by his sister (Ethel Nagel Mack) and his brother (Harold Miller), but is survived by three nieces: Susie Herzberg, Cathy Koncilia, and Karen Hughes and their families.  He is survived by George Mack (brother-in-law), Elsie Miller (sister-in-law), and Dean Bilden (son-in-law); he is predeceased by Bill Cobb (son-in-law).   Leon also wanted his many friends to know that he greatly appreciated their friendship.

 

A graduate of (now) Central High School in Springfield in 1937, Leon was the state high school tennis doubles champion.  

 

Leon Miller was an honor graduate from Southwest Missouri State Teachers College (now Missouri State University) in 1940, majoring in history and English.   In 1985, he was inducted into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame for his three MIAA doubles tennis conference championships in college.  He served as Alumni President in 1945-46.  It was in the campus library that he met his wife, Mary Belle, who he married on May 5, 1946.

 

            Serving as a major in World War II, Leon was honored with a purple heart, a bronze star with two oak leaf clusters, a combat infantry badge, a European Theatre of Operations Ribbon with three battle stars and a Presidential citation for serving in the 79th Infantry, 2nd Battalion, 315th Regiment of the 3rd Army.

At the University of Chicago he earned his MA and PhD in Education before the Millers moved to Maryville in 1950.  At Northwest Missouri State University, Dr. Miller served at Chairman of the Division of Education and Psychology and Director of the Horace Mann lab school (1950-60), Dean of Instruction (1960-69) and then as the first Graduate Dean (1969-85).  It was under his leadership that graduate programs were first developed.  For most of his 35 years at NWMSU he coordinated campus accreditation reports.  In addition, he chaired the Little White House Conference on Children and Youth and was an AAUP chapter president. He received the Distinguished Educational Service Award from Phi Delta Kappa (professional educational fraternity) in 1982.  NWMSU honored him that year with the title of Distinguished Professor before his retirement in 1985.

 

            Leon is remembered for his extensive civic involvement.  He was especially active in Lions Club where he received the local chapter’s first Life Time Membership and was honored in 1991 with the Lions International Humanitarian Award for his contributions locally, as District Governor, and for his roles on the Lions Eye Tissue Bank, State Hearing Commission and Leadership Development Commission.  Involvement with the American Legion included serving as a post commander (coordinating the rebuilding of Legion hall), directing the State Oratorical Contests for 28 years, and chairing the local Boys State selection committee for a quarter of a century.  Dr. Miller was the national Vice Chairmen of the Americanism Council and directed two national oratorical finals, as well as numerous sectional and regional contests.  For over two decades he organized Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day celebrations.  Leon received a state Distinguished Legionnaire Plaque.  He was appointed to the Governor’s Missouri Commission on the Bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution in the later 1980s. 

 

            Dr. Miller served on the Nodaway County Board for United Way for nine years, was a Red Cross volunteer during his early years, and was a long-time sponsor of Vets Club among his numerous other civic capacities.  Leon was the last surviving founder of Hope Lutheran Church, where he served on the finance board for over 20 years and as President or Secretary during 14 years. 

 

            In addition, Leon especially enjoyed playing bridge, gardening and fishing as past-times over the years, in addition to driving the boat for water skiing.  In his retirement years, there was also Men’s Forum, Retired Teachers Association and a morning coffee group.

           

In his prime, Dr. Miller was a distinguished university administrator at Northwest Missouri State University, who faculty respected as being true to his word.   He gave generously of his time to the community, being an after-dinner speaker at numerous events, where his joke-telling abilities shined.  Leon F. Miller was a loving father and friend, a humanitarian, scholar, and role model for countless students, faculty and community citizens. 

 

His later years were sadly complicated by diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, from which he is now released, but he should be remembered as he was in his prime -- for his intellect, wit and service.    

 

            Memorials to honor Leon can be sent to Northwest Missouri State University Foundation for the Leon F. Miller Graduate Grant Award, to the Lions Eye Tissue Bank, to the Missouri State American Legion Oratorical Program or to Hope Lutheran Church.

 

The service for Leon F. Miller will be held at Hope Lutheran Church, Maryville, Missouri on Saturday June 4, 2011, with burial to follow in Nodaway Memorial Gardens Cemetery at the North end of Maryville.   Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 on Friday, June 3 at Price Funeral Home
010Merl James Eberly was born May 13, 1935 to Merl A. and Ada M. (Barchus) Eberly west of Clarinda. He entered into rest at his home Saturday, June 11, 2011, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Celebration of Life services were held at St. John’s Lutheran Church with burial in the Clarinda Cemetery.
On October 6, 1954 he and Patricia Lee Heil were united in marriage. To that union six children were born – Julie Kae, Ricky Jay, Jill Anne, Joy Sue, Ryan James and Rodney Jacob. There are 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. His family has been the center of his life through the years with all the children being involved with his interest in sports, as well as hunting, fishing and love of the land. His reading of American history left him with a deep respect for our country’s heritage & military that carried over to the younger generations as well. Holidays and family gatherings were always a special time with the growing numbers adding to the fun.
Merl was a graduate of Clarinda High School and Clarinda Junior College where he obtained a teaching degree. It was during those years his love of athletics was developed under some very caring coaches, namely Al Gray, John Tedore and John Altfillisch. A four-sport athlete in high school, he played basketball in junior college and minor league baseball for the Chicago White Sox.
During the early years of their marriage Merl worked at Kearney Corp., Wert’s Locker and Robert’s Dairy before beginning an almost 30 year career at the Clarinda Herald Journal where he started in the back shop, wrote sports, was an advertising salesman and stockholder. His column “Sport Shorts by ME” was always a favorite of his and his readers. He also was a volunteer baseball coach at IWCC. Following the sale of the paper the Eberly’s were owners of The Shoe Box and later the Celebrity Inn. Merl had been retired since the sale of the motel in 1999. Opportunities to leave Clarinda came in both the publishing and baseball fields, but this was his home and he was proud of it for the friendliness, work ethic and community spirit. He felt it was also the right place to raise their family.
His association with the Clarinda A’s baseball program began in 1954 when he was a player, then manager from 1961-1997, serving as the General Manager at the time of his death. When the team changed from the town team to the collegiate concept in the early 70’s, he told board president Dr. C.E. Nichols he would manage for two years, but his love of the game and working with young people kept him there quite a bit longer. For a couple of years in the early 60’s he played the town football team and in those days till 1981 coached the Lancers, a town basketball team.
There have been awards through the years to Halls of Fame, Citizen of the Year and Lifetime Achievement among others from Clarinda Chamber of Commerce, IWCC, National Baseball Congress, Midwest Professional Scouts and Cardinal Booster Club, capped by the naming of the baseball diamond in 2010 as Eberly Field. All these he accepted with humility on behalf of his family, his co-workers at the Herald Journal, the community and A’s alumnus who have all supported his work with youth and activities in Clarinda and that included not only his own children, but the many from across the country who have played for him, parents of the players, the local people who opened their doors to the “boys of summer” and the many managers, coaches, scouts and umpires who crossed his path through the years.
A member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, he was a daily Bible reader whose “angel experience” before a third surgery in the fall of 2008, along with great support from those around him, sustained him into the fifth year of his bout with cancer. The 3 F’s – faith, family and friends – were very important to him. He always felt blessed during his life with the opportunities and associations that had been part of it.
Surviving him are his wife of over 56 years, Pat; children: Julie (Mrs. John Brummett), Waukee, IA, Rick (Angie) Eberly, Highland, KS, Jill (Mrs. Scott) Sunderman Clarinda, Iowa, Joy (Mrs. Dave) Cox, Shellsburg, IA, Ryan Eberly, Clarinda, IA and Rod Eberly, Highland, KS; grandchildren: BJ (Missy) Windhorst, West Des Moines, IA, Temple (Mrs. Chad) Netten, Waukee, Iowa, John Brummett III and fiancé Terri Kragel, San Antonio, TX, Blake Brummett, Kansas City, KS, Cooper Eberly, Highland, KS, Jara (Mrs. Kyle) Johnson, Pella, IA, Jacob (Allyson) Sunderman, St. Augustine, FL, Jared Sunderman, Kansas City, KS and girlfriend Caitlin Phillips, Maryville, MO, Carmen Cox and Marcus Josephson, Red Oak, IA, Meghan Cox, Maryville, MO, Bryce Eberly, Clarinda; great-grandchildren: Creighton, Aydn, Finley and Aniston Netten, Drake Windhorst and Chloe Josephson; sister Sandy (Mrs. Harris) Thompson, Bellevue, NE; brother John (Paula) Eberly, Colleyville, TX; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Preceding him in death were his parents Merl (Ruth) Eberly, Ada (Mrs. Stanley) Zdan; sisters Martha, Marie and Joanne and his in-laws Al and Verla Heil.

Celebration of Life Services for Merl will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 16, 2011 at St. John Lutheran Church in Clarinda, Iowa with burial in the Clarinda Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Merl Eberly Memorial Fund.
Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements
011Nancy Borthwick Whigham was born April 7, 1915 on the family farm in Coin, Iowa, to James Leo and Emma (Stitt) Borthwick. She grew up attending the Long Branch Country School and graduated from Amity College Springs High School. Nancy attended Tarkio College for a year obtaining her Normal Certificate for teaching. She taught for one year at country school and then was united in marriage to Charles Richard Whigham. They were married on August 20, 1936 on the porch at the family farm house in Coin, Iowa.
They started to renovate one of the oldest houses in the area and when it was livable she started a garden she enjoyed for many years and she gradually added her flowers. They started their family, enjoyed relatives from both sides, and was active in the Helping Hands neighborhood club, the Presbyterian Church in College Springs, the Farm Bureau Women, the Colfax 4-H Club, among others she was active in and enjoyed very much. Then as their children grew she supported their activities around College Springs and South Page schools. As the children started to scatter for various reasons she enjoyed traveling more, so they did travel more and farther. When she was home her kitchen and home were open for family and friends to stop by and enjoy some homemade bread for one thing. In 1981 Charles passed and Nancy decided to stay on the farm and continue her gardening, flowers, family, traveling, and church work. She was always on the go and in a hurry, so when it was mentioned to her that she might be driving a bit too fast, she disagreed. She then moved to Eiler House Assisted Living in Clarinda in June of 2004. In May of 2007 she moved to Westridge Quality Care of Clarinda. The family thanks both for their personal care and professionalism.
Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Charles of 45 years; sisters Ruth Blair and her infant twin daughters and husband Erskine and Anna Hick; brothers Paul Borthwick and wife Dorothy, Donald Borthwick and wife Theresa and Ernest Borthwick and wife Lois; grandson Gary Whigham and granddaughter Caroline Whigham.
Surviving Nancy are her children Robert Charles Whigham and wife Janet of Coin, Iowa, Ronald Lee Whigham of Fremont, CA, Cheryl Ann Esmond and husband Don of Corona del Mar, CA, Neil Eugene Whigham of Austin, TX, Lyle Kennard Whigham and wife Kristy Phoenix, AZ; 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchild; sister Jean Anderson of Dallas, TX and brother in law Herb Hicks of Yuma, AZ.
Funeral services for Nancy Whigham, 96 of Blanchard, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2011 at College Springs Presbyterian Church with family visitation 6-7 p.m. Friday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Interment will be at Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs. Memorials are suggested to College Springs Presbyterian Church or Westridge Quality Care & Rehab in Clarinda. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements
012Funeral services for Edna Streitenberger, age 78, of Bedford, who died Thursday, June 2, 2011 in Omaha, Nebraska were held Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation was Tuesday morning from 9:00 a.m. until service time at 11:00 with the family greeting friends. Interment was held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton. Memorials can be directed to the Bedford Meal Site. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Edna Mae Irvin Streitenberger was born on September 5, 1932 at home near Athelstan, Iowa, to H. Franklin and Esther E. (Adams) Irvin. Her childhood was spent in northern Missouri and she attended Mount Vernon school near Hopkins from kindergarten through eighth grade. Her family moved to Athelstan after her eighth grade and she attended high school in Blockton, Iowa, graduating in 1951. She often rode the train to Blockton on Mondays, stayed with her Aunt Ethel and Uncle Elmer, and rode the train back home to Athelstan on Fridays. Growing up, her family never had TV, but they listened to a Nashville station on a battery operated radio. She continued to enjoy listening to country music throughout her life.
Edna was united in marriage to Boyd E. Streitenberger on June 9, 1951 in Bedford, Iowa. Boyd and Edna farmed near Blockton until 1967 when the family moved to Bedford. On the farm, Edna always had a large garden and canned much of the family’s fruits and vegetables. In addition, she raised chickens and sold eggs and cream. Fried chicken was a Sunday favorite. About the time the family moved from the farm, Edna began working at the nursing home in Bedford to help provide for their family and to follow her dram of nursing. She started as a nurse’s aide and during her years of employment, she trained and achieved Certified Med Aide status. In 2002, she retired after 35 years at Bedford Nursing and Rehab.
After retirement, Edna moved to Northside Apartments and enjoyed the activities there in addition to frequenting the Bedford Meal Site. Edna liked playing with her cat, Snoopy, as well as planting and caring for flowers, watching her “stories” on TV, feeding hummingbirds, visiting with her family and friends and especially putting together jigsaw puzzles.
Edna is survived by three daughters, Evelyn Wehde and husband LeRoy of Omaha, Nebraska; Priscilla England and husband Doug of Clearfield, Iowa; and Sharon Bond and husband Patrick of Omaha, Nebraska; ten grandsons, a step-granddaughter, five great grandson, three great granddaughters, a brother-in-law, John Streitenberger of Edmonds, Washington, and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding Edna in death were her husband, Boyd, in 2001; parents, Frank and Esther; daughter, Norma Jean at infancy in 1966; son, Everett, in 1979; brother, Harold Irvin; sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Wilbur Jackson; sister-in-law Dorothy Streitenberger; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Doris and Lewis Shiflett
013Maureen A. Hansen, 84, passed away on Wednesday evening at the Elm Heights Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Shenandoah. A Rosary Recitation will take place at 6:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with the family greeting relatives and friends from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. following the Rosary. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery. Memorials in Maureen's name are being directed to either St. Mary's Catholic Church,Alzheimer's Association or a charity of the donor's choice
014Donna Ginger Schaefer was born December 12, 1950 at Shenandoah, Iowa to Don and Patsy (Mondt) Ginger. She grew up and graduated from Essex High School in 1969. She married Verlin Schafer on June 3, 1989 at a sunrise service at the Earl May Rose Garden in Shenandoah. They resided in Essex until moving to Louisiana, Missouri, where they lived for four years and she worked as a dental assistant. They then lived in Wahoo for three years, before moving the Gering in 1997, where she was presently employed as the Emmanuel Congregational Church secretary.

She was a member of the church, loved to read, and spoil her grandchildren. Donna will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends as a wife who loved her husband, her children, her grandchildren and her God. She never complained of the hardships she was presented throughout her life, but met them head on. She was an inspiration to all who knew and loved her.

Well done good and faithful servant.

She is survived by her husband Verlin Schaefer of Gering; sons Cory (Amie) Perkins, and Tyson Perkins and friend Michele Tillman all of Shenandoah, Iowa; daughters Melody (David) Just of Blair, and Sarah (Dan) Marostica of Gering; nine grandchildren; mother Pat Ginger of Shenandoah, Iowa; sister Rita (Terry) Thomas of Lincoln; and brother Teb (Beth) Ginger of Valley.

She was preceded in death by her father
015Junior C. "Junior" Victor C. Smith passed away on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 in Springfield, Oregon.

There will be no services. Burial of his cremains at a later date will be in the Braddyville Cemetery at Braddyville, Iowa next to his parents, Victor, Sr. and Nellie M. Smith.

Survivors include his sister, Mary Roach of Council Bluffs, Iowa
016Robert Eugene Tyler was born on January 3, 1919 in Villisca, Iowa the son of Henry Filson and Ethelda Amelia (Armstrong) Tyler. Bob entered into eternal peace on Sunday evening, June 12, 2011 at the Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 92 years.
Bob graduated from Villisca High School with the Class of 1936. Following graduation he attended Simpson College where he received his Bachelors Degree. On January 18, 1941 Bob married his college sweetheart, Marian Laura Benton in Malvern, Iowa. In 1943 Bob enlisted in the United States Navy where he served his country with pride installing radar training equipment.
In 1946, Marian and Bob moved to Shenandoah where they started a bottling business. They bottled beverages for Coca Cola, 7-Up, Dr. Pepper, and other products. Bob and his brother also owned bottling plants in Nebraska and Texas as well.
Bob was quite active in the community and held many offices in several local lodges and clubs. In 1947 he worked on the Veterans Village Project, in 1950 he served as the President of the Red Cross, in 1952 he served as Worthy Patron of Eastern Star, in 1953 he served as the Rainbow Dad, from 1953-1954 he was President of the Chamber of Commerce and served on the Board of Directors, in 1954 he was Director of Shenandoah Industries (in later years also served that organization as Treasurer, Vice President, President, and served on the Board of Directors), from 1959-1961 he was on the Board of Directors for the United Fund and also that year received the “Man of the Year Award” from the Jay Cee’s, in 1961 served on the Advisory Board of Hand Hospital (a term which lasted until 1969), in 1965 served as President of Rotary, from 1967-1968 served on the Board of Directors of Rotary, from 1963-1965 was a Steward of the Methodist Church, from 1965-1967 was a member of the Board of Trustees for the Methodist Church, from 1967-1969 was Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Methodist Church, he also helped the church with several financial drives, lay speaking duties, men’s brotherhood, served on the building committee, the remodeling committee, and pastoral relations committee. Bob was a member of the Mason’s, Scottish Rite, Eastern Star, the Flying Club, the American Legion, and the Elks Club. He also served on the Simpson College Alumni Board, served on the Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado Bottlers Boards, was President of the Iowa Manufacturers and was Vice President of the Iowa Bottlers of Carbonated Beverages from 1968-1969.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Marian Tyler; and siblings Geraldine, Donald, Kenneth, Carolyn, and Marilyn. Those left to honor his memory include his children Richard Tyler of Denver and Linda Tyler of Shenandoah; grandchildren Justin Tyler of Denver and Tiffany Stanley of Riverton; 5 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild
017Thelma Elizabeth (Carmichael) Dowell was born on August 5, 1915 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Lon and Florence (Ault) Carmichael. Thelma entered into eternal peace on Thursday, June 9, 2011 at her home in Shenandoah, Iowa at the blessed age of 95 years.

Thelma’s early years were spent in Coin, Iowa where she attended school. She graduated from Coin High School with the Class of 1933. On March 22, 1936 she was united in marriage to Carl Milton Dowell in Coin. The couple resided on a farm outside of town.

Thelma was a dedicated wife and mother. She took on jobs outside of the home when needed. She worked as a Home Health-Aide, was a lunch lady at the Coin School, and later worked as an aide at Elm Heights. Caring for others, is what she did best.

She was a member of the Canasta Club, the United Presbyterian Church Women’s Group, served as the church pianist, enjoyed her apartment card group, and served as pianist for various other groups in the community. She was also a member of the United Methodist Women. Some of her hobbies included cooking, playing the piano, playing card games, and caring for others.

She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant brother; her husband Milton; a sister Helen Goodman; and brother-in-law Herb Goodman.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children Dan and Linda Dowell of Littleton, CO and Dr. Peter and Kay (Dowell) Gibson of Lake Angelus, MI; 6 grandchildren Jim and Kristen (Gibson) Mauk of Valparaiso, IN, Donald and Kathy Gibson of Troy, MI, Tom and Kathy (Gibson) Joseph of Grand Rapids, MI, Jerry and Valeri (Gibson) Gidcumb of Panama City, FL, Darren and Terri Dowell of Lakewood, CO and Armando and Lindsey (Dowell) Gallegos of Littleton, CO; 20 great-grandchildren; other relatives and dear friends
018Irene Ann Bryte was born October 18, 1918 in Farragut, Iowa, the daughter of Henry W. and Minnie (Ebert) Laumann. She passed away on Thursday morning, June 9, 2011 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah at the age of 92 years, 7 months and 22 days.

Irene grew up in Fremont County, Iowa where she attended country school and graduated from Farragut High School. She worked as a sales clerk at George Jay Drug Store for many years. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Shenandoah. She was also active in the B.P.W., American Legion Auxiliary, Christian Women and Angel Quilters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Ronald Bryte; her brother, Arnold Laumann and his wife Nina; her sisters, Dorothy Salfrank, Mildred Hensley and Vivian McLaren.

Survivors include her daughters, Marcia Allely and her husband Keith of Shenandoah, Iowa, Sherry Swenson and her husband Gene of Savannah, Georgia; two grandsons, Kevin Allely of Council Bluffs, Iowa and Lance Swenson and his wife Kristie of Warwick, Rhode Island; three granddaughters, Dawn Gore and her husband Kevin of Omaha, Nebraska, Michelle Morelock and her husband Aaron of Farragut, Iowa, Kari Pittman and her husband Andrew of Needham, Massachusetts, six great grandchildren, Devin and Drew Morelock, Riley and Kelsey Pittman and Melia and Ellie Swenson; a brother, Donald Laumann and his wife Kathy of Farragut, Iowa; two brothers-in-law, Leroy Hensley of Shenandoah, Iowa and J.F. McLaren of Farragut, Iowa; along with many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
019 Carolyn "Jane" Preston passed away early Sunday morning, June 12, 2011 at the Shenandoah Medical Center following a lengthy illness. Services will be held at a later date. Mrs. Preston donated her body to the Mayo Clinic for Parkinson's Research.
020Nancy Louise Jozefowicz was born January 26, 1941 in Hamburg, Iowa, the daughter of Bert and Pauline (Verbeck) Feil. She passed away on Wednesday evening, June 8, 2011 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah at the age of 70 years, 4 months and 13 days.

Nancy grew up in Fremont County and attended grade school in Riverton and Farragut. They later moved to Shenandoah where Nancy graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1959. In 1975 she moved to Lemoore, Colorado where she lived until 1997 when she returned to Shenandoah.

Nancy worked as a bartender and cocktail waitress for many years. She was also a telemarketer and worked with Chemical Dependency Assistance. She was a member of the New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Fountain, Colorado and attended the Missionary Baptist Church and Faith Christian Fellowship Church in Shenandoah. She was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and REACT (Retired Eagles Activity Club).

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Lee Feil; two nephews, Pat and Mike Feil; and a special friend, Harold Wiltshire.

Survivors include her children, Angela Miller and her husband Dave of Shenandoah, Iowa, William Dean Jackson of Denver, Colorado, John Anthony Vanderpool of Colorado Springs, Colorado; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren; along with many other relatives and friends
021Elsie Lorraine Gray was born January 7, 1910 near Shambaugh, Iowa, the daughter of Merrill E. and Gold (Hamm) Davison. She passed away on Monday afternoon, June 6, 2011 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah at the age of 101 years, 4 months and 30 days.

Elsie grew up on a farm near Shambaugh, Iowa and attended the Butler Country School. She later graduated from Clarinda High School. Elsie went to college in Ames, Iowa where she met her future husband, Harold Gray. The couple was united in marriage on October 24, 1933 and lived on a farm near Clearmont, Missouri.

On the farm Elsie raised chickens and planted huge gardens. After retirement, Elsie and Harold lived in Burlington Junction, Missouri for several years before moving to Shenandoah in 1990. She loved to crochet house slippers and afghans that she would give to her family and friends. She and Harold also loved to travel. They also enjoyed many bus trips with the Neiharts.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harold; and four brothers, Richard Davison, Wendell Davison, Lain Davison and Elman Davison. Elsie is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends
022Dorothy June McIntyre was born July8, 1926 in Farragut, Iowa, the twin daughter of John and Ellen Sophia (Carlberg) Mascher. She passed away on Thursday evening, June 9, 2011 at her home in Shenandoah at the age of 84 years, 11 months and 1 day.

Dorothy grew up in Farragut and graduated from Farragut High School in 1944. On July 15, 1951, she was united in marriage to Richard McIntyre in Farragut. This union was blessed with four sons, Rick, Steve, Tim and John.

Dorothy was a homemaker raising her four children. She worked numerous jobs including Roberts Grocery in Farragut, the Elks Lodge in Shenandoah, and for 17 years she worked in the dietary department at Elm Heights. She was a member of the Farragut United Methodist Church and the None Such Card Club. She enjoyed various kinds of puzzles, yard work and shooting pool with her sister Doris. She really loved children, especially babies.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a brother, Richard Mascher; a sister, Elaine Peters; a brother-in-law, Carl McIntyre; and a sister-in-law, Irene McIntrye.

Survivors include her children, Rick McIntyre (Sandy) of Farragut, Iowa, Steve McIntyre of Indianola, Iowa, Tim McIntyre (Teri) of Council Bluffs, Iowa, John McIntyre (Sarah) of Portland, Oregon; nine grandchildren, Lori Chenoweth (Brian) of Des Moines, Iowa, Matt McIntyre of Omaha, Nebraska, Taylor McIntyre (Amanda) of Lisle, Illinois, Reed McIntyre of Indianola, Iowa, Bruce Gruber, Brian Gruber and Brett Gruber all of Farragut, Iowa, Hannah Welsh and Jack McIntyre of Portland, Oregon; a great grandson, Cody Chenoweth of Arizona; her twin sister, Doris Cooper and her husband Bud of Shenandoah, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Connie Mascher of Farragut, Iowa, Jessie McIntyre of Shenandoah, Iowa, Wilbert and Patricia Johnson of Red Oak, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends
023

Graveside services for Larry Eighmy, age 89, of New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center, Bedford, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 18, 2011 at Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa with Reverend Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to New Market United Methodist Church. 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.

Larry V. Eighmy, the son of Elmer Carlton and Bessie Orilla (Hicks) Eighmy, was born December 14, 1921 at New Market, Iowa. He grew up in New Market attending the New Market School graduating from New Market High School in 1940.

In October of 1942, he answered his country’s call to serve in the Air Force going to Fresno, California for his basic training then back to Lincoln, Nebraska for schooling after which he was sent to Niagara Falls for specialist training. Upon completion of basic training, he was sent to Fort Myers, Florida serving as crew chief on fighter planes in the 438th fighter squadron used in training pilots. Larry received his discharge as staff sergeant in 1946. In 1947, he started farming which kept him busy through the spring of 2006.

On February 20, 1943, he was united in marriage to Clara Lorraine Wells in Lincoln, Nebraska. To this union were born three sons. Larry was very proud of his family. He spent many happy hours with his boys fishing, hunting, playing croquet, etc. leaving many happy memories.

As a child he attended the Methodist Sunday School. At the age of eighteen he accepted Christ as his savior. In later years he appreciated the good sermons on the radio.

Larry will be remembered for his love of flowers and the hours he spent mowing the lawn wanting everything to be neat. He also enjoyed his Saint Bernard dogs that he had over the years.

Preceding Larry in death were his father and mother; two brothers, R.L. (Lefty) Eighmy and Wendall Eighmy and wife Lucille; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Carl and Grace Wells; sister-in-law, Hazel White and husband Claire.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Lorraine Eighmy of New Market, Iowa; sons, David Eighmy and wife Margaret of New Market, Iowa, Michael Eighmy and wife Jean of New Market, Iowa and Ron Eighmy and wife Tonya of New Market, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Tim Eighmy and wife Makenzie of Clarinda, Iowa, Terry Eighmy and wife Laura of Maryville, Missouri, Jake Davis of Clarinda, Iowa, Maggie Smith and husband Brian of Blair, Nebraska, Wendy Halloran of Des Moines, Iowa, Brian Moore and wife Liz of Villisca, Iowa, Lindsay Dow and husband Kenny of Clarinda, Iowa; eleven great grandchildren, Taten, Mataya, Trevan, Colton, Caden, Mylee, Tyler, Rylee, Drake, Addison and Olivia; nieces; nephews and many friends
024

Memorial services for Randy Brandon, age 52, of Corning, who died Monday, June 13, 2011 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning will be held Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 2:00 PM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Visitation will be held at the Ritchie Funeral Home Saturday morning from 11:00 AM until service time at 1:00 PM with the family greeting friends. Private family interment of ashes will be held at a later date. Memorials can be given in Randy’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.

Randy Max Brandon was born June 13, 1959, in Maryville, Missouri the son of Raymond Brandon and Bonnie (Chaney) Brandon. Randy grew up in Burlington Junction, Missouri, moving to Conway in 1976. He was united in marriage to Kathryn Arbuckle in 1985. He lived in Trenton, Missouri for many years. In 2001, he was united in marriage to Cindy Sims. He has lived in Corning the past three years where he worked for Dalton Ag in Lenox, Iowa.

Randy enjoyed ‘everyday life’. He was a kind, loving and compassionate man with a special relationship with his brother Jack. He enjoyed working on cars, going on driving trips and fishing when time allowed.

Left to cherish Randy’s memory are his wife Cindy Brandon of Corning; his father, Raymond Brandon of Bedford; two sons, Ian Wayne Lucas and wife Mary of Chillhowe, Missouri; and Chuck Duncan and wife Tiffy of Sioux City, Iowa; four brothers, Ed Brandon and wife Jo of Trenton, Missouri; Junior Brandon and wife Kathy of Oklahoma; Calvin Brandon of Maryville, Missouri; and Jack Brandon and wife Terri of Lenox; a sister, Delpha Mains and husband Chris of Smith Grove, Kentucky; his two best friends of over 20 years, Brian Wright and Timmy Gore; a sister-in-law, Donna Brandon of Oklahoma; one granddaughter, Sky Lynn Duncan; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Randy in death are his mother Bonnie Brandon; a son Daniel Brandon in 2007; and a brother Rick Brandon
025Carla Kay (Andrews) Martin, age 53, of Mukilteo, Washington, formerly of College Springs, Iowa, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 9, 2011. A vistation with the family will be held 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 25, 2011 at the Garrison House Clarinda, Iowa
026

Graveside services for Clifford Davis, age 68, of Corning, formerly of Bedford, who died Wednesday, June 8, 2010 at his home in Corning will be held Saturday, June 11, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bedford City Cemetery military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164. Visitation will be at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford Saturday morning from 9 AM until 10 AM when we will leave for the cemetery in procession. Memorials may be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

George Clifford Davis was born October 20, 1942, in Osceola, Iowa the son of Alva Davis and Viola Dolly (Lucas) Davis. He grew up in the Bedford area attending school, graduating from high school with the Class of 1961. Cliff entered the United States Navy in Nebraska City, Nebraska on November 9, 1964 and was honorably discharged January 22, 1965. During his time in the U.S. Navy he was stationed in San Diego, California. Upon his discharge Cliff returned to Iowa where he began working for the Lisle Corporation in Clarinda, a position he held for 38 years until his retirement in 2006.

Cliff enjoyed computers, the Game Show Network and was a long-time Club Pogo Member. He also enjoyed watching old movies, country music and was extremely passionate about John Wayne. Cliff was known as a ‘practical joker’ always up for a good prank on someone! He was always very active in the lives of his cousins and their families.

Left to cherish the memories of Cliff are his cousin, Betty McLean and husband David of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and their children Debbie Skinner of Ottumwa, Iowa and her children; along with many other cousins and friends.

Preceding Cliff in death are his parents, Alva and Viola Davis
027Steven Lee Clark, age 57, of Clarinda, Iowa, entered into peace Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at his residence in, Clarinda, Iowa. No services will be held. 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
028

Funeral services for Randy Groves, age 51 of Lenox, Iowa who passed away Monday, June 6, 2011 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa, will be held Friday, June 10, 2011, at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Visitation will be at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox Thursday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials may be given in Randy’s name. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. The Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox was entrusted with the arrangements.

Randy Dale Groves was born on October 13, 1959 in Des Moines, Iowa to Bobby and Charlotte Groves and grew up on a farm south of Atlantic, Iowa. He graduated from Atlantic High School in 1978 and attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. He later came back to Iowa where he met his wife Shelly and made his home in Lenox. He has been employed at Michael Foods for the past 13 years.

Randy will best be remembered for the love he had for his grandchildren. He loved giving them tractor rides, tossing them into the back of his truck for rides to the lake and he especially enjoyed working side by side with them in his garden. At any given time, you could find Randy in his garage watching his favorite station “The Food Network”, where he loved taking new recipes and making them his own.

Randy was raised on a farm and it was always a dream of his to one day own his own farm. He took great pride in his antique Case tractor. Friends and family will remember Randy for his quick wit and sarcastic sense of humor. .

Randy is survived and loved by his wife, Shelly; daughter Sarah (Victor) of Lenox; sons Jason Johnson and Brett (Cynthia) Johnson, all of Lenox; grandkids Dillon, Mahaley, Mason and Trenton; parents Bobby and Charlotte Groves, brother Jon (Bev) Groves, and sister Cathy (Chris) Knuth; and grandmothers Leona Groves of Atlantic and Vivian Langfelt of Massena.

Randy is also survived by his father and mother-in-law Phil and Lola Sanson; brother-in-law, Steve (Missy) Sanson of Nodaway; sisters-in-law, Debbie (Bob) Gallant of Gladstone, Missouri and Brenda (Mark) Huff of Creston. Randy is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Randy is preceded in death by his two grandfathers Robert Groves and Dale Langfelt.

Randy was a wonderful, fun-loving person who enjoyed life. His family and friends will miss him dearly
029

Celebration of Life Services for Charlotte Akers, age 69, of Gravity, who died Monday, June 6, 2011 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning will be held Thursday, June 9, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in Charlotte’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.

Charlotte Carol (Woods) Akers was born January 9, 1942, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa the daughter of William Frederick Woods and Opal (Parker) Woods. In 1959, Charlotte was united in marriage to Walter Fleetwood and to this union four children were born to bless her life, Ron, Jeff, Connie and Bonnie. The couple later divorced.

After receiving her GED, Charlotte worked several years at the Main Street Café in Bedford under Dell Forrester and Mable Stewart. She met Lloyd Akers and after a long courtship, they were united in marriage on December 3, 1980. She was then blessed with two step-children, Andy and Sheryl Akers. Lloyd and Charlotte lived in Sidney, Iowa where she worked as a Home Health Aid for the elderly. After retirement, Lloyd and Charlotte moved back to Gravity and enjoyed traveling south during the winter months. While down south, they enjoyed going to flea markets. They also enjoyed taking their grandchildren on vacations.

Charlotte’s heart was always in being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Giving love to them to no end. While her family was the love of her life, she enjoyed cooking, which included her homemade beef and noodles and delicious homemade pies. She enjoyed going to garage sales and visiting the casinos along with planting all kinds of flowers. Throughout the years, Charlotte’s Dachsund dogs brought a lot of joy to her life. Charlotte was a long-time member of the Gravity American Legion Auxiliary.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend are her husband Lloyd Akers of Gravity; her children, Ron Fleetwood; Jeff Fleetwood, Connie Fleetwood and husband Duane; and Bonnie Gross, all of Gravity; Step-children Andy Akers of Marshalltown, Iowa; and Sheryl Depatten and husband Pete of Des Moines, Iowa; five grandchildren Tonya Fleetwood of Brooklyn, New York; Eric Gross of Bedford; Stephanie Akers of Pleasant Hill, Iowa; and John and Anthony Soares of Des Moines, Iowa; two brothers-in-law, Duane Akers and wife Deloris; and Junior Akers and wife Edna; two sisters-in-law, Darlene Armstrong and Deloris Williams; along with several nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.

Preceding Charlotte in death are her parents, William Woods; and Guy and Opal Dugan; a brother Bill Woods; a sister Phyllis Hartman; along with a brother, Bobby Lavonne; and sister, Iona Rae at infancy