Leola Claussen

CLAUSSEN, EVERS

Posted By: Marthann (email)
Date: 9/26/2007 at 14:07:58

Claussen, Leola
Denison Bulletin/Review
9/13/2007

Leola Claussen was born November 2, 1922, in Hayes Township, Ida County, Iowa, the daughter of Otto H. and Alvena Reinking Evers. She died September 2, 2007, at the age of 84. She was baptized in Christ December of 1922, and confirmed March 21, 1937, at Friedens Evangelical & Reformed Church in Schleswig, Iowa.

Leola grew up on the family farm and began her education in the rural school in Hayes Township, Ida County. She then attended high school in Schleswig, graduating with the class of 1940. After high school, she completed her education at National Business Training College (NBT) in Sioux City, Iowa. After graduation, she was first employed at the Cornbelt Commission Company in the stockyards at Sioux City and later, for several years at the Rural Electric Administration in Ida County.

On June 27, 1945, Leola was united in marriage to Edward W. Claussen, in Baltimore, Maryland. This marriage continued for more than 59 years, until Eddie's death in March of 2005. Two sons were born to this union. Mark Paul, who died in infancy, and Craig Edward of Napa, California. Upon Ed's release from the Navy, he and Leola returned to Schleswig and resided there for the balance of their lives.

Leola was a devoted and life-long member of the United Church of Christ. She was both a Sunday School and Bible School Teacher for 25 years and was leader of the Junior Youth Fellowship for 10 years. She was church secretary for many years, served on the church council, was a member and officer of both the Junior and Senior Women's Guilds, sang in the church choir and served on many church committees. She was also active and served as an officer in numerous community groups and organizations, including the American Legion Auxiliary, Schleswig School Mothers, ladies board of the Schleswig golf club, Friends of the Library, Meals on Wheels, and was a long-time member of the Schleswig German Band.

Leola was a good, caring person, loving wife and mother who often made sacrifices for her family and friends. Her favorite pastimes included reading the daily newspaper, playing cards (particularly Bridge and Euchre) with friends, collecting Hummel figurines and other antiques, and in earlier years, playing golf. She also spent many enjoyable winters with Ed in Indian Wells, California.

Leola was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ed; and one son, Mark. She is survived by her son Craig; cousins Betty Wassgren, Roger Reinking, Charles Evers, and LaVonne Petersen; her sisters-in-law Pearl Jorgensen and Mildred Karpuk; nephews and nieces; other extended family members and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, September 6, 2007 at the United Church of Christ in Schleswig, Iowa. Rev. Chris Burtnett officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig. Organist, Al Friedrichsen provided the accompaniment for congregational hymns "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" and "Lift High, The Cross". Soloist , Jerry Peterman sang "Here I Am, Lord" accompanied by Tammy Neubauer on the piano. Those serving as pallbearers were Ron Lenninger, Charles Evers, Leon Gosch, Roger Reinking, Mike Goodin and Dale Lenz. The family invited everyone in attendance to join them in fellowship and lunch catered by Staley's Food Service of Charter Oak and served by the Women's Guild. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Marthann Kohl-Fuhs
706-5th St.
Defiance, IA 51527
marthannk@fmctc.com