Crawford County, Iowa, IAGenWeb

Obituaries

Erlin Julius Ewoldt (1917 - 1996)

Erlin Julius Ewoldt was born November 24, 1917, the son of Julius and Anna Schrum Ewoldt. He died at the Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Wednesday, July 10, 1996 at the age of seventy-eight.

Erlin was born near Aspinwall, Iowa in Carroll County and baptized in the Lutheran Church in Manning and later confirmed at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla. He received his education in rural schools in Carroll and Crawford Counties.

On March 5, 1948, Erlin was united in marriage to Caroline Anna Wileheminia Schwartz Maas. The couple settled on a farm near Schleswig where they farmed for seven years, before becoming employed for various farm, in Southwest Iowa until 1968.

Erlin was employed at Giant Manufacturing in Council Bluffs, Henningsen Construction in Atlantic for three years, and moved to Denison in 1974, where the couple was doing custom fencing during the summer and snow removal in the winter. Erlin was also employed at the Crawford County Maintenance Department. In his leisure time, Erlin enjoyed Polka Dancing and listening to Polka music and the Polka Party.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons in infancy, two granddaughters, three brothers, one sister, one brother-in-law and one sister-in-law.

Survivors include his wife, Caroline of Denison; four sons, Delbert and a special friend, Sheila Woods and son Robert of Council Bluffs; Howard and his wife, Carol of Denison; Joe and his wife, Penny of Vail; Earl and his wife, Mary of Carroll; one daughter, Irene of Harlan; one stepdaughter, Adella Farley and her husband, Larry of Manilla; seven grandchildren, Jeremy, Dustin, and Emmalee Ewoldt of Vail; Crystal, Elizabeth and Beau J. Ewoldt of Carroll; Janae Ewoldt of Council Bluffs; one sister-in-law, Mary Ewoldt of Rapid City, South Dakota; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 13, 1996 at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison, Iowa. Rev. Richard Hempenius officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig, Iowa. David Ewoldt provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Penny Ewoldt singing "How Great Thou Art" and "In the Garden". Those serving as pallbearers were: John E. Ehrichs Jr., Wayne Behrend, Stanley Ewoldt, Donald Ewoldt, Dustin Ewoldt and Jeremy Ewoldt. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the Denison Community Building. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Erma La Royce (Pieper) Lamp (1917 - 2004)

Erma La Royce Lamp was born November 18, 1917, the daughter of Phillip and Susan Hutchinson Pieper. She died Saturday, October 23, 2004 at Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-six.

La Royce was born on a farm in Jackson Township and received her education in country schools. When La Royce was ten years old. her mother passed away and she and her siblings began living with their grandparents on the family farm in Milford Township. After graduating from eighth grade, La Royce began working for several families helping with house work.

On December 25, 1939, La Royce was united in marriage to Harvey H. Lamp in Denison, Iowa. The couple made their home in Vail, Iowa and were blessed with the birth of two daughters. La Royce worked along side her husband on the farm in Vail and continued working with him after they moved to the farm in Milford Township. The couple remained on the farm in Milford Township until their retirement at which time they moved to Eventide Senior Housing where they resided for fifteen years.

She enjoyed music, dancing, traveling. and in her spare time, crocheting, cooking and baking. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who took pride in her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandparents, her stepmother, Tillie Pieper, one brother, Yale and five brothers-in-law, Clifford Lamp and his wife, Pat, Walter Sonnichsen, Arnold Lamp and his wife, Lucille, Wilbur Lamp and Robert Archer.

She is survived by her husband, Harvey of Denison; two daughters, Laura Faye Kinney and her husband, Donald of Vail, Iowa: and Carolyn Kay Bukacek and her husband, Roger of Denison; five grandchildren, Shelley Weller and her husband, Gary; Susan Ernst and her husband, Sean; Penney Simpson and her friend, Wayne; Marc Kinney and his wife, Danielle; and Tammy Rice and her husband, Scott; fourteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Phyllis Lamp of Manning, Iowa; three sisters-in-law, Delores Sonnichsen of Denison; Marian Nicholson and her husband, Bill of Denver, Colorado; and Norma Blanchette and her husband, Rick of Clifton, Colorado; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday. October 27, 2004 at the United Presbyterian Church in Denison, Iowa. Dr. Skip Shaffer officiated the services and grave side rites held at Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Organist Ann Voggesser provided the organ accompaniment for the congregational hymns "God Will Take Care of You and "Beautiful Garden of Prayer . Eldon Hardekopf served as soloist, singing. "The Lord's Prayer". Those serving as pallbearers were: Wayne Iverson, Nathan Adams, Mark Kinney, Gary Weller. Sean Ernst, and Scott Rice. The family invited everyone in attendance to join them in fellowship and lunch served by the Presbyterian Women. The Walter A. Huebner & Family Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Erna (Neddermeyer) Lill (1913 - 1978)

Erna Lill was born April 15, 1913 near Charter Oak, the daughter of Marvin and Augusta Neddermeyer. She died May 3, 1978 at St. Luke's Hospital, Sioux City, at the age of 65 after a long illness.

Erna was raised on a farm near Charter Oak and attended the rural schools of the area as well as attending the Lutheran School in Charter Oak. She was baptized and later confirmed into the Lutheran faith.

On March 1, 1936 she was united in marriage to Alva Lill at Charter Oak. Together they lived and farmed in the Charter Oak area. Erna worked in Denison for many years including eight years at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital.

She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church all of her life. She was also a member of the Ladies Aid.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by five brothers, Herbert and four others in infancy and one sister Esther.

Survivors include her husband Alva Sr. of Charter Oak, one son, Alva Jr. of Lawton, and three daughters, Marie, Mrs. Richard Peters of Schleswig, Ina Mae, Mrs. Wayne Bleesmann of Ida Grove and Leila, Mrs. Verle Neumann of San Mateo, Calif. Also by 10 grandchildren, three brothers Carl Neddermeyer, Adolph Neddermeyer and Ervin Neddermeyer, all of Charter Oak and one sister, Edna, Mrs. August Nemitz of Denison.

Funeral services were held May 6 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, Charter. Oak. Burial was in Crawford Heights Memory Gardens. The Rev. Henry W. Friedrich officiated at the services. Pallbearers included Steven Peters, Melvin Lill, Craig Peters, Kenneth Nemitz, Bruce Stoltze and Jerry Bahnsen. Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Huebner Funeral Home of Charter Oak.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Erwin E. Voss (1919 - 2000)

Erwin E. Voss was born February 12, 1919, the son of John D. and Hanna M. Jurgensen Voss. He died Thursday, March 30, 2000 at the Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center in Odebolt, Iowa at the age of eighty-one.

Erwin was born in Denison, Iowa and was baptized in Christ on October 22, 1919 and later confirmed on April 9, 1933 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa. He received his education in a rural school in Goodrich Township.

Erwin worked for various farmers, until entering the United States Army in 1942. He received his honorable discharge in 1946.

On April 16, 1947, Erwin was united in marriage to Marvella Stoltenberg at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. The couple lived in Denison, Iowa for a short time before moving to a farm near Schleswig. In 1971, the couple moved to Schleswig and Erwin remained active in farming until retiring in 1984 at which time Erwin helped his son, Lodean.

Erwin was a member of the United Church of Christ in Schleswig, where he served on various boards. He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed the time spent with family and friends. Erwin loved farming and was an excellent steward of the land. In his leisure time, he enjoyed bowling and ballroom dancing. Erwin and Marvella enjoyed traveling together and spending winters in Scottsdale, Arizona.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Gilbert Voss. Survivors include his wife, Marvella of Schleswig; one son, Lodean Voss and his wife, Sandra of Kiron; four grandchildren, Troy Voss of Schleswig; Todd Voss and his wife, Amy of Seward, Nebraska; Valerie Gierstorf and her husband, Trent of Schleswig; Jason Voss and his friend, Gina Wessel of Kiron; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Maxine Kruger and her husband, Leslie of Denison; one sister-in-law, Loretta Voss of Storm Lake; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held 2 p.m., Sunday, April 2, 2000 at the United Church of Christ in Schleswig. Rev. Gordon Hoyt officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig. Dorothy Jessen provided the organ accompaniment for soloist Ruby Kastner as she sang "Amazing Grace" and for the congregational hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus". Those serving as pallbearers were: Valerie Gierstorf, Jason Voss, Todd Voss, Trent Gierstorf, Gina Wessel, Amy Voss and Troy Voss. The American Legion Post No. 8 of Denison conducted the Military Honors. The family invited everyone in attendance to join them in fellowship and lunch served by the Women's Guild. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Esther Ida (Petersen) Neumann (1918 - 2005)

Esther Ida Petersen was born September 8, 1918, in Carroll, Iowa, daughter of Detlef and Minnie Wiese Petersen and was raised in Carroll, Iowa. She attended public schools there. She worked in various homes and later in Denison.

On February 6, 1938 Esther was united in marriage to John Neumann by Rev. C.W. Schmidt at Zion Lutheran Church. The couple settled on the farm where she enjoyed working with her husband. They were blessed with two daughters, Marilyn and Sandra. She was a loving and devoted wife and mother, whose family was always first. Esther enjoyed sewing, arts and crafts, and was a member of Ladies Aid and Christian Craft Time and her Friday Card Club.

She died Thursday, March 17, 2005 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-six. She was preceded in death by her husband, John, her parents and seven brothers, Harry, Bill, Hugo, Raymond, Elmer, Venus and Leroy.

Surviving are Marilyn Hansohn, and husband Gene of Omaha, Nebraska; Sandra Jepsen of Kansas City, Missouri; four grandchildren, Matthew Jepsen and wife, Terri Ann of Germany; Heather Jepsen of Kansas City, Missouri; Lincoln Jepsen of Kansas City, Kansas; Hope Hansohn of Omaha, Nebraska; one great-grandson, Elijah Matteau Jepsen; and one great-granddaughter, Isabella Gabriella Jepsen; one sister, Deloris Roeder of Jefferson; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 21, 2005 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Rev. David Sewing officiated the services and grave side rites held at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Denison. Organist Karen Kahl provided the music accompaniment for the congregational hymns "Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound," "Drawn To the Cross, Which Thou has Blest," and "I Know that My Redeemer Lives." Those serving as pallbearers were Kenneth Jepsen, Hope Hansohn, Gene Hansohn, Heather Jepsen, Lincoln Jepsen, and Rex Garside. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of the arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Esther E.K. (Spack) Jochimsen (1913 - 2000)

Esther E.K. Jochimsen was born February 6,1913, the daughter of Mike and Emely Deiber Spack. She died Monday, September 25, 2000 at the Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-seven.

Esther was born on a farm near Dow City, Iowa, where she lived with her family and received her education in a rural school near her home. She was baptized in Christ August 17, 1913 at the St. Peter's Evangelical Church in Buck Grove by Rev. Niewoehmer and later confirmed on October 29, 1939 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Buck Grove by Rev. Greene.

On October 11, 1933, Esther was united in marriage to Edwin Jochimsen at the Zion Lutheran Parsonage in Denison, Iowa. The couple settled on a farm and were blessed with the birth of two sons. In 1966, they retired from farming and moved to Charter Oak, where Esther worked at the Charter Oak Cafe and later the Senior Center.

Esther was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak. She was a very loving and caring wife and mother who loved the work involved in providing for her family. In her leisure time, Esther enjoyed Ballroom Dancing.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Edwin in 1990, three brothers, Elmer Spack and his wife, La Verne; Victor (Jim) Spack and Clifford (Pat) Spack.

Survivors include two sons, Virgil Jochimsen and his wife, Nancy of Pelham, Alabama; Ronald Jochimsen and his wife, Cathy of Omaha; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Arlene Jensen of Manning; Shirley Spack of Manning; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, September 28, 2000 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak, Iowa. Rev. L.C. Gebhardt officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Art Beeck provided the organ accompaniment for congregational hymns "How Great Thou Art", "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" and "I'm But A Stranger Here". Those serving as pallbearers were Michael Abildtrup, Merlin Joens, Dennis Huebner, Abe Gronau, Mark Spack and Rick Spack. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Ladies Aid. The Huebner Funeral Home in Charter Oak was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Florence A. (Fredricks) Peterson (1914 - 2003)

Florence A. Peterson was born November 20, 1914, the daughter of Gill and Amanda Hennings Fredricks. She died Monday, January 20, 2003 at the Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-eight.

Florence was born on a farm near Charter Oak and received her education in a rural school near her home. She was baptized in Christ on March 10, 1915 and later confirmed on April 13, 1930 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison.

On October 12, 1940, Florence was united in marriage to Robert Peterson at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. They made their home on a farm near Dunlap, until purchasing a farm in Hanover Township. In 1960, they owned and operated Hilltop Amusement Park on Highway 141, between Denison and Charter Oak. The couple moved to Denison in 1967, where they purchased the Econowash Laundromat and Car Wash.

Florence was a member of Zion Lutheran Church. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She loved helping her husband with wood crafts, painting them and selling them at flea markets. In her leisure time, Florence enjoyed fishing and playing KENO in Las Vegas. She also loved her cats.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Joleen in infancy and one brother, Walter Fredricks and his wife, Eleanor.

Survivors include one daughter, Judy Dutler and her husband, Roger of Apache, Junction, Arizona; one son, Darrell Peterson and his wife, Diane of Cedar Rapids; five grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, Richard Peterson and his wife, Jean of Silver City, New Mexico; Eldon Hanson of Vermillion, South Dakota; three sisters-in-law, Eileen Cancio and her husband, Leo of Washington, D.C.; Merle Reed of Vermillion, South Dakota; Edna Peterson of Huron, South Dakota; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 23, 2003 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa. Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Vicar David Lyons officiated the service and grave side rites held at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Denison. Organist Karen Kahl provided the organ accompaniment for soloist Renae C. Claussen as she sang "Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me", and "The Lord's Prayer", and for the congregational hymn "How Great Thou Art". Those serving as pallbearers were: Charles Peterson, Chuck Peterson, Mark Dutler, LeRoy Fredericks, Mike Peterson, and A.J. Dutler.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Garnet (Schroeder) Potter (1913 - 1998)

Graveside services were held for Garnet Potter on October 25th at Morgan Cemetery with Rev. Hoyt officiating. Garnet was born to Herman and Ella (Peters) Schroeder on September 14, 1913. She graduated from Schleswig High School with the class of 1931.

In 1935 she was united in marriage to Herbert Potter of Ida Grove, IA, and to this union, two sons were born. Herbert died in 1974. Several years after this marriage they moved to Anoka, Minnesota where she has resided ever since.

Garnet worked in various stores and for over 20 years she worked for National Tea in the meat department. Garnet's health began to fail and she spent the last few years in a nursing home and passed away on October 21st, 1998, at the Elk River Nursing Home in Minnesota.

Her parents and husband preceded her in death. Survivors include: two sons, Dennis and wife Trudie and children Jessica and Jackie and her husband Max; Gary Potter and wife Barbara and children Jenifer, Jon, and Gregory all of Anoka, MN; a sister, Leonore and husband Edmund Hamann and many relatives and friends.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


John Rollins (1877 - 1913)

Denison Review April 23, 1913

It is with deep regret that the Review chronicles the death of one of Crawford County's native sons, Mr. John Rollins, who died at his home on east Chestnut Street in this city, on last Friday, April 18, 1913, after an illness of only a short time.

For a number of years Mr. Rollins suffered at intervals with an attack of blood poison, which first made its appearance in the Fall of 1903, when he was engaged in the land business at Huron, South Dakota. For nearly three years he was under the constant care of physicians before relief was obtained. The poison was not eradicated, however, and at numerous intervals it caused him much suffering until the last attack, which occurred two weeks ago, from which he was unable to recover.

The deceased is a son of Mr. and Mrs. James Rollins who live in East Boyer township, at which place he was born the third day of May, 1877.

He attended school in East Boyer Township until he was 16 years of age, when he entered Denison Normal and Business College, from which he graduated. After receiving his diploma he secured a position in Algona, Iowa, where he remained for a short time.

On July 27, 1902 he was united in marriage to Miss Susie McCutcheon, of Vail, who survives him. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Huron, South Dakota where John entered the land business and which vocation he followed until the time of his death. Returning from Huron he located in Denison, where he has since resided.

Mr. Rollins was an upright and industrious man and one who was active in the several fraternal orders to which he bolonged. He was liked by all for his quiet assuming ways and held the universal respect of all who knew him.

He was a member of UTE Tribe No. 92, I.O.R.M., McHenry Camp No. 53, S.; the Denison Fire Department, and the Woodmen of the World. He was especially prominent in the circles of the Woodmen of the World and for a number of years served as clerk of the local camp, and was an especially good officer, being capable and obliging.

On April 2nd he was elected Head Camp Clerk of Iowa of the W.O.W. Order at a meeting of the head camp at Burlington and would have held this office for a period of two years and his capability, untiring industry and winning personality and his capability, untiring industry and winning personality would undoubtedly have won him higher honors in the head camp. His death is not only a loss to the local camp but to the order at large.

Besides his beloved wife he leaves to mourn his death three children, namely: Lesie and Donald and daughter Arlene; his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. James Rollins and four brothers, W. C. Rollins, F. S. Rollins, James A. Rollins and Robert E. Rollins; two sisters Jennie and Mrs. Elizabeth Robertson, all of whom resided in this city.

Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian Church Sunday afternoon at 2:30, Rev. J. Jas. DePree officiating. The fraternal orders and Sons of Veterans took prominent part in the funeral services, both at the church and at Oakland Cemetery, where intermant was made.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Lorraine L. (Jensen) Petersen (1916 - 1994)

The funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday (year of obit is 1994) at St. Paul Lutheran Church for Lorraine L. Petersen,78, of 1899 410th Ave., who died Tuesday at Genesis West Hospital. The Rev. Frederick Lubs will officiate. Visitation will be from 8 p.m. Friday at Pape Funeral Home and from 9:30 a.m. until the service hour Saturday at the church. Burial will be in Clinton Lawn Cemetery. Pallbearers will be all the grandsons, Lon, Larry, and Lowell Young, Scott Roling, Eric Spehr and Vincent Colandrea.

Mrs. Petersen was born Jan. 17, 1916, in Crawford County to Rudolph and Caroline Johannsen Jensen. She married Earnest E. Lueders, Nov. 18, 1936, in Clinton. He died Dec. 30, 1950. She then married Rowland J. Petersen, May 4, 1963, in Denison. He died Feb. 28, 1992.

She was a 1933 graduate of Deloit High School, Deloit, and had worked over eight years at Voss's Ten-Mile Store. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and the Mature Youth Group of the church. She was a member of the Denison Historical Society, where she did volunteer work, the Denison Collectors Club, was a former member of the Odeonettes, and a member of the Hampshire Township Homemakers. She enjoyed needlework and collected elephants.

Survivors include seven, daughters, Mrs. James (Janice) Young of Clinton, Mrs. L.B. (Margie) Maura of Los Vegas, Nev., Mrs. Leo (Carolyn) Roling of Bryant, Mrs. Paul (Eileen) Spehr of Lake Jackson, Texas, Mrs. Roy (Luwana) Hansen of Oakdale, N.Y., Mrs. Russell (Janelle) Horton of Thermopolis, Wyo., and Joan Petersen of Clinton; a son, Alan Lueders of Clinton; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. William (Darlene) Richardsen of Richland, Wash.; and a brother, Dr. Lon Jensen of Corvallis, Ore. She was preceded in death by a son, and a brother.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Maxine (Bral) Graham (abt. 1923 - 2006)

Omaha World Herald

Maxine Graham, age 83 Elkhorn, formerly of Denison, IA, died October 21, 2006. Maxine lived in Omaha for over 50 years before moving back to her home town of Denison in 1998. She had recently moved to Marquis Place assisted living in Elkhorn.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Max; parents Frank and Beth Bral of Denison and brother Robert Bral, of Denison.

Survived by daughter, Susan and son-in-law, Dave; grandson, Eric Bramow, of Elkhorn; brother John Bral, of Omaha; sister Nancy and husband Ken Love of Denison; brother Jim Bral and wife Lorraine, also Denison.

Funeral service 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 24, 2006 Colonial Chapel. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation Monday 6-8 p.m. Colonial Chapel.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Robert Frank Bral (1932 - 2002)

Funeral Program.

Robert (Bob) Frank Bral was born September 10, 1932, the son of Frank O. and Bess Crampton Bral. He died Wednesday, October 2, 2002 at the Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of seventy.

Bob was born in Vail, Iowa and was confirmed on April 19, 1959. He received his education in a rural school near Deloit, Iowa and after completing his education, he worked as a brick layer for his cousin, Lawrence Butler. He later moved to Omaha, where Bob worked for Swift.

On June 20, 1952, Bob was united in marriage to Marcella Hammer at the Lutheran Parsonage in Sac City, Iowa. The couple settled in Omaha, Nebraska for one year before moving to Denison. Bob went to work for Comstock Gravel Company as a machine operator for five years. In the 1960s, Bob started working for Orville McVay Heating and Plumbing, where he worked for nine years before starting the Bral Plumbing and Concrete business in March 1969.

Bob was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison and a former member of Issac Walton League. Bob loved his family and enjoyed being involved with family events. One of Bob's enjoyments in life was respect for wild life. He enjoyed trapping, fishing and hunting along the river. He was very skilled at wood crafting.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Marcella of Denison; four sons, Robert E. and his wife, Robin of Denison, Clayton and his wife, Kathy of La Vista, Nebraska; Ronald and his wife, Laurie; Kenneth and his wife, Sherry, all of Denison; one daughter, Diane Gunderson and her husband, Richard of Columbia, South Carolina; seventeen grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, John Bral and his wife, Carol of Elkhorn, Nebraska; James Bral and his wife, Lorraine of Denison; two sisters, Nancy Love and her husband, Kenneth; Maxine Graham, all of Denison; many other relatives and friends.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Darlo John Pirwitz (1931 - 2005)

Darlo John Pirwitz was born December 27, 1931, the son of Louie and Minnie Mggers Pirwitz. He died Friday, July 29, 2005 at Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa at the age of seventy-three.

Darlo was born on a farm in Charter Oak, Iowa. He was baptized in Christ April 20, 1932 and later confirmed by Rev. Schroeder at St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak. He received his education in Willow Township Country School. In 1952, Darlo entered the United States Marine Corps in California and was honorably discharged from service in 1954. He returned home, and in 1955, began farming the family farm.

On June 1, 1958, Darlo was united in marriage to Marilyn Groth at the Friedens Evangelical and Reformed Church in Schleswig, Iowa. The couple made their home in Charter Oak and were blessed with the birth of three children. Darlo continued farming for several years and also was employed for a short time at the Berne Co-op in Ute.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family very much. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, driving in the country looking at fields, and fixing things, especially lawn mowers. He also enjoyed playing pull-tabs, scratch tickets, attending Denison Livestock Auctions to look for treasures, and visiting with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife: Marilyn of Charter Oak; one son: Dennis of Charter Oak; two daughters: Karen Mohr and her husband, Eugene of Vail, Iowa; and Kay Domsch and her husband, Carl of Wakefield, Nebraska; four grandchildren: Justin and Ryan Mohr of Vail; and Maritza and Rosina Pirwitz of Charter Oak; two brothers-in-law: Wilbert Groth and his wife, Lorraine of Denison; and Vertus Groth and his wife, Marlys of Denison; five sisters-in-law: Darlene Jensen of Schleswig; Irene Meiners and her husband, Herman of Manilla; Betty Meeves and her husband, Paul of Dunlap; Margie Moeller and her husband, Ervin of Denison and Marlene Schneider and her husband, Gene of Denison; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 2, 2005 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak, Iowa. Rev. Richard Merrill officiated the service and grave side rites held at the St. John's Lutheran Cemetery. Marjorie Neddermeyer provided the organ accompaniment for congregational hymns "How Great Thou Art", "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound" and "I'm But a Stranger Here." Those serving as pallbearers were: Bryce Meeves, Dale Meiners, Roger Nemitz, Larry Jensen, Mark Nemitz and Roger Groth. Military Honors were American Legion Homer Hall Post 66 of Charter Oak. A Prayer Service was held at 7:00 p.m., Monday at the Huebner Funeral Home in Charter Oak.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Florence Alvina Emma (Wessel) Preul (1915 - 2001)

Florence Alvina Emma Preul was born December 1, 1915, the daughter of Henry and Freda Rademacher Wessel. She died Sunday, March 25, 2001 at the Denison Care Center in Denison at the age of eighty-five. Florence was born near Charter Oak, Iowa and received her education at a rural school near her home.

On February 6, 1935, Florence was united in marriage to Henry Preul at Charter Oak. The couple lived on a farm near Charter Oak and later purchased a farm west of Denison. They were blessed with eight children. In 1958 the couple moved to Denison to make their home.

Florence was confirmed in the Lutheran faith on April 5, 1936. She was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, where she enjoyed volunteer work. She was also a member of Zion's Ladies Aid for fifty years and a charter member of the Evening Guild. Florence was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother who loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed gardening and canning vegetables, cooking and baking, especially pies. In her leisure time, Florence loved to do needle work. On April 22, 1997, Florence entered the Denison Care Center.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Henry in 1988; one son, Rovanis in 1991; one great-grandson, Brett Christiansen, two sisters, Dorothy Wessel and Lois Petersen.

Survivors include five sons, Ardelbert Preul and his wife, Loraine of Denison; Larry Preul and his wife, Mary of Alhambra, California; Gary Preul and his wife, Barbara of Denison; Darrell Preul and his wife, Belinda of Elkhorn, Nebraska; Richard Preul and his wife, Debra of Kiron; three daughters, Janice Christiansen and her husband, Howard of Denison; Joyce Detlefsen and her husband, Guenter of Schleswig; Darlene Rudner and her husband, Richard of Scottsdale, Arizona; one daughter-in-law, Berneil Preul of Denison; eighteen grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; four sisters, Esther Sonnichsen and her husband, Edward of Denison; Helen Olson of Deloit, Leva Schumacher and her husband, Vahn of Battle Creek; Lila Kline and her husband, Donald of Schleswig; two brothers, Lloyd Wessel and his wife, Lorraine of Ida Grove; Delmar Wessel and his wife, Gladys of Denison; one sister-in-law, Alma Preul of Charter Oak; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 29, 2001 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Rev. David Sewing officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Karen Kahl provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Eldon Hardekopf singing "The Wings of a Dove" and congregational hymns "Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me" and "Go My Children, With My Blessing". Honorary pallbearers were Julie Schwarte, Raquel Pearson, Vicki Schraeder, Robin Warnken, Cyndi Bueno, Shona Frasier, Dudley Preul, Kelly DeLeon, Velva Bubke and Tyson Preul. Pallbearers were Jeff Christiansen, Contessa Preul, Scott Detlefsen, Brad Detlefsen, Sean Rudner, Rhonda Gray, Roger Preul and Cory Preul. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Ladies Aid and Evening Guild. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Florence Emma (Stender) Hansen (1912 - 1995)

Florence Emma Hansen, daughter of Carl A. and Annie Marie Aldag Stender was born in Morgan Township near Schleswig, on February 12, 1912. She died on January 30, 1995 at the Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove, at the age of eighty-two years.

Florence was baptized as an infant in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Grant Township and confirmed in the United Church of Christ in Schleswig. In 1972 she became a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig.

She grew up on a farm in Morgan Township and received her education at rural schools near her home. After completing her education she helped her parents on the farm and assisted in area homes as needed.

On December 5, 1933, Florence was united in marriage to Herbert Hansen at the Trinity Lutheran Parsonage by the Rev. C.W. Schmidt, and the couple were blessed with the birth of one daughter.

The couple settled on various farms in the Schleswig and Kiron areas for fifteen years before purchasing a farm north of Kiron in 1948. In 1964, they returned to the Stender farm near Schleswig to live until their retirement in 1969 when they moved to Schleswig. Florence enjoyed sewing, golfing, bowling, housework and socializing with friends over a game of cards.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Herbert on October 13, 1991, and her son-in-law, Donald on April 21, 1992.

Survivors include her daughter, Loween Krayenhagen of Galva; three grandchildren, Lorraine and Marvin Todd of Holstein; DeWayne Krayenhagen of Ida Grove; and Linda and Chad Morrow of Galva. Also three great-grandchildren, Emily, Eric and Ethan Todd of Holstein.

Funeral services were held at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig, with Rev. Donald Wagner officiating the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig. Sharon Thompson provided the organ accompaniment for the congregational hymns "How Great Thou Art" and "What a friend We Have in Jesus". Pallbearers were: DeWayne Krayenhagen, Marlowe Schultz, Burdell Jensen, Chad Morrow, Marvin Todd and Larry Beeck. A lunch served by the Immanuel Lutheran Ladies Aid was enjoyed by those in attendance at the service and grave side rites. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Florence Caroline (Kuhlmann) Hildebrandt (1914 - 1999)

Florence Caroline Hildebrandt was born August 19, 1914, the daughter of William F. and Theresa Ossenkop Kuhlmann. She died at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa, Thursday, November 18, 1999 at the age of eighty-five.

Florence was born near Charter Oak, Iowa and was baptized in Christ on September 6, 1914 at St. John Lutheran Church, Charter Oak and later confirmed there on April 10, 1927. She received her education in a rural school in Willow Township and graduated from the Charter Oak High School with the class of 1931. After completing her education, Florence taught in a rural school for a number of years.

On July 22, 1934, Florence was united in marriage to John Hildebrandt at St. John Lutheran Parsonage in Charter Oak by Rev. A. Amstein. The couple made their home on a farm southeast of Charter Oak until 1968, when they moved to a farm east of Charter Oak. In 1972, the couple moved to Charter Oak.

Florence was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Charter Oak, their Ladies Aid and the Crawford County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. She was a very loving and caring mother and grandmother. She put everyone's cares before her own. Florence loved the farm life, where she enjoyed cooking and gardening, sewing and reading.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1982, one grandson, Steven Boger, two sisters, Marie Magill and Esther Kruse.

Survivors include three daughters, Benita Boger and her husband, Floyd of Denison; Faylene Paulsen and her husband, Ronald of Charter Oak; Jacqueline Henry and her husband, Wayne of Council Bluffs; fourteen grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren; one brother, Raymond Kuhlmann of Charter Oak; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, November 22, 1999 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak, Iowa. Rev. L. C. Gebhardt officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison, Iowa. Art Beeck provided the organ accompaniment for congregational hymns "How Great Thou Art" and "Lift High the Cross". Guitarist and soloist, Ryan Paulsen sang "Amazing Grace". Pallbearers were: Cosette McKinney, Roni Christina Knief, Sharon K. Brown, Elise C. I. Henry, Ashlee W. Henry, Debra Thomsen, Susan Wiggins, Todd W. Henry, Michael Boger, Ryan Paulsen, Lynne Shives, Dennis Boger, Kevin Boger and Keith Boger. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Ladies Aid. The Huebner Funeral Home in Charter Oak was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Florence (Schroeder) Thomssen (1911 - 1990)

Florence, daughter of Louis and Mary Lemster Schroeder, was born April 20, 1911, in Aspinwall, Ia. As an infant she was baptized into the Lutheran faith by Pastor Wendt. As a young girl, Florence attended Aspinwall schools and was confirmed into the Lutheran faith by Pastor Ansorge.

On April 5, 1933, she was united in marriage with Henry Thomssen. Their marriage took place in Denison with Pastor Freese officiating. To this union four children were born: Darlyne, Larry, Judy and Jean.

Florence and her husband farmed in the Aspinwall and Manilla areas, retiring to Aspinwall. Her husband died in 1978, and Florence remained in their home in Aspinwall until she suffered a stroke in August of 1989. Later that month she became a resident of the Manilla Manor Nursing Home.

Florence entered the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison early June 4 (1990), and died there later that morning at the age of 79 years, one month and 15 days.

Besides her husband; she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, William and Harry Schroeder; two sisters, Margaret Schroeder and Emma Schilling; and a great granddaugher, Kelsey Lynn Klindt.

Survivors include her four children: Darlyne and her husband, Edward Dahleen of Denison, Larry Thomssen and his wife, Rose Ann of Manilla, Judy and her husband, LeRoy Lingle of Manilla and Jean and her husband, James Christensen of Denison; 18 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; a sister, Amanda Clausen of Aspinwall; sisters and brothers-in-law: Marie Schroeder of Aspinwall, Merle Thomssen of Manilla, and Lester and Estella Schrum of Manilla; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Florence was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla.

Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla with Pastor Glenn Wiechmann officiating. Music was by Cindy Fastje, Susan Weltz and Sylvia Lingle singing "Only A Shadow." The congregational hymns were "How Great Thou Art" and "What A Friend We Have In Jesus." Bonnie Lorenzen served as organist. Pallbearers were Jeff Christensen, Steve Lingle, Scott Lingle, Brent Thomssen, Bruce Dahleen, Troy Dahleen, Curtis Lingle, Brian Lingle. The Ohde Funeral Home of Manning was in charge of funeral arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Francis Snyder (1910 - 1995)

Francis "Dale", son of Francis and Nellie Green Snyder, was born November 20, 1910 near Irwin, Iowa. He grew up near Manilla and attended rural schools. He then worked on the home farm.

Dale was united in marriage with Viola Bargenquast Lorenzen on July 30, 1942 at Papillion, Nebraska. In September of that year he entered the United States Army. Because he was blind in one eye he was honorably discharged in May of 1943. When he returned from the service, Dale began farming for himself. In 1965 he sold his farm equipment and moved into town where he worked for the city. Two years later he and his wife became caretakers of the Shelby County Farm. In 1975 Dale retired and they . moved back to Manilla to a home they had purchased in 1965.

Dale was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 132. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed playing cards and fishing in his spare time.

Due to failing health Dale entered the Manilla Manor Nursing Home in the fall of 1994. He died on Saturday, September 16, 1995 at the Manning General Hospital, Manning, Iowa at the age of 84 years, 9 months, and 27 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters: Goldie Roberts and £ Cecil Wiese Scheuler.

Surviviors include his wife, Viola, of Manilla, two daughters: Karen Foster, of Blair Nebraska and Goldie and her husband, Frank Boeck, of Manilla; two sons: Francis Snyder, of Manilla and Gail Snyder and his wife Tami, of Waterloo; a step-daughter, Betty and her husband, Juan Polledo, of Kalispell, Montana; 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; a brother, Wayne Snyder and his wife, LaVerda, of Hastings, Nebraska; two sisters: Dorothy Kruse, of Monterey Park, California and Beulah and her husband, Arnold Jensen, of Elk Horn; a sister-in-law, Beatrice Snyder, of Denison; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services were held Wednesday, Sept. 20, 1995 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla, Iowa with Pastor Timothy Geitz officiating. Bonnie Lorenzen was the organist playing "Forever With The Lord", "Amazing Grace" and Beyond The Sunset". Interment was in the Nishnabotna Cemetery at Manilla. Casketbearers were his grandchildren: Sharon Manning, John Huckins, Jr., Casey Huckins, Jennifer Foster, Dara Jorgensen, Brittany Snyder, Pam James, Terri Davis, Glenn Foster, Kent Foster, Shane Boeck and Hilary Snyder. Military honors were provided by the American Legion Post 132 of Manilla.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Frank Eldon Jorgensen (1918 - 2004)

Frank Eldon Jorgensen, second son of Jorgen and Jensine Krogh Jorgensen was born September 9, 1918 at Astor, Iowa. He attended country school and graduated from Manilla High School in 1937.

On June 2, 1941, Frank was united in marriage with Virginia Alice Baer in Blair, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union. Frank farmed near Manilla until 1963 and then worked for the Rural Electric Co-op and became manager in 1967. where he worked until his retirement in January 1982.

Frank was active in the community and served on the following boards, Manilla School Board, South Crawford REC Board, Chamber of Commerce Board and West Central Development Board. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as a trustee and elder. He was a member of the Denison Kiwanis Club and served as secretary for many years. He served on the committee to organize the West Central Development Corporation. Frank served on the Denison Community Chest and was chairman of the Northwest Iowa Power Cooperation.

Frank died on Thursday, January 8, 2004 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital at the age of eighty-five years and four months.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers: Allen, Kenneth, Raymond and LaVerne; and two sisters-in-law: Erma and Phyllis.

Survivors include his wife, Virginia of Denison; three children: Sandra Kay Vennink of Carroll; Karen Lee Swanson and her husband, Larry of Plattsmouth, Nebraska and Richard Jorgensen and his wife, Kathy of Des Moines; five grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Krista Lee Schroeder and husband, Jeffery and their daughter, Lexie Ann; Brandon Dean Vennink and wife, Lei Ray Yu and their son, Johann Michael; Byron Jay Vennink and wife, Candi and their children, Wade Ryan and Autumn Whitleigh; Joshua Richard Jorgensen and wife, Stephanie and son, Zakary Stephen; and Nicholas Robert Jorgensen; one brother. Bernard Jorgensen and wife, Garnet of Denison; and two sisters-in-law, Virginia Jorgensen and Edeline Jorgensen; along with many other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, January 12, 2004 at the United Presbyterian Church in Denison. Rev. Thomas Buzbee officiated the service. Lei Ray Yu provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Brandon Vennink singing "The Lord's Prayer", "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound" and "How Great Thou Art". The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Presbyterian Women. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Frank Henry Berndt (1918 - 2005)

Frank Henry Berndt was born September 25, 1918, the son of William and Anna Mathies Berndt. He died Friday, March 18, 2005 at Denison Care Center in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-six.

Frank was born near Earling, Iowa and was baptized at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earling and was confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in Dunlap. He received his education in rural schools near his home and worked with his family on the farm.

On September 23, 1945 he was united in marriage to Marlene Jensen on her family farm in Shelby County. The couple lived with Frank's parents until 1947, when they purchased a farm in Goodrich Township. The couple were blessed with two children, Mike and Sandy. Frank continued farming and also worked with K & S Equipment as a mechanic. In 1981, he retired and the couple moved to Denison. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who, in his spare time, enjoyed fishing, hunting and mechanical work.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Fred, John, Charlie, George and Carl; six sisters, Mary, Stella, Martha, Clara, Bertha, and Sophie; one sister-in-law, Janice Jensen; and one brother-in-law, Marvin Jensen.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene of Denison; his son Mike and his wife, Marlene of Denison; his daughter, Sandy Grimm and her husband, Bradley of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; three grandchildren, Justin Berndt of Denison; Zebediah Grimm and Joziah Grimm, both of Cedar Rapids; one step-grandson, Brock Grimm of Cedar Rapids; three brothers-in-law, Ronnie Berndt and his wife, Claudia of Scottsdale, Arizona; Charles Berndt and his wife, Barbara of Springfield; Missouri; and Bob Jensen of Omaha, Nebraska; one sister-in-law, Shirley Jensen of Denison; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 22, 2005 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa. Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Rev. David Sewing officiated the services and grave side rites held at Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Organist Karen Kahl provided the music accompaniment for the congregational hymns "Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound," and "Drawn to the Cross." Soloist Eldon Hardekopf sang the selection "On the Wings of a Snow White Dove." Those serving as pallbearers were Jack Kilker, Scott Kilker, Justin Berndt, Charles Berndt, Curtis Jensen, Daniel Grill, and Ronnie Berndt. The family invited everyone in attendance to join them in fellowship and lunch served by the Dorcas Society. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of the arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Frederick Earl Whiteing (1910 - 2004)

Frederick Earl Whiteing was born on a farm in Hayes Township south of Vail, Iowa on September 9, 1910, the son of Thomas and Hannah Lochner Whiteing. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Presbyterian Church in Vail. When Earl was seven years of age the family moved from his birthplace to a farm north of Manilla, Iowa, where they resided for ten years before returning to Hayes Township. Earl received his education in the Manilla Public Schools through his sophomore year before being graduated from the Vail High School with the class of 1930.

On October 10, 1936, Earl was united in marriage with Opal Naomi Yankey at the First United Methodist Church in Denison. Their union was blessed with two children, Carol Anne and Merlin. They made their home on their Century Farm in Hayes Township until moving to Real Life in Denison in 1995.

During the years on the farm Earl was a 4-H leader of the Vail Volunteers for several years and a fifty-year member of the Crawford County Farm Bureau. Since 1939 Earl had held memberships in the Diamond Lodge #422 A.F. & A. M., Vail, Iowa and the Olive Branch Chapter #205 Order of Eastern Star, Vail, Iowa. In later years with a love of traveling and camping Earl and Opal enjoyed their membership in the Tall Corn Campers Club. Earl greatly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and engaging in good conversation with everyone. During this past year Earl's family has come to appreciate even more his gentleness and graciousness at the Care Center. In addition to his civic and community memberships Earl was a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Vail where in earlier years he served as an Elder.

In early 2003 Earl moved to the Denison Care Center and remained there following the death of his wife. Opal, September 6, 2003. Earl died at the Denison Care Center Saturday, September 25, 2004. At the time of his death he had had been blessed with 94 years and 16 days.

Including his parents and his wife, Earl was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Ruth Whiteing and brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Curt and Arlonne Ynnkev.

Those remaining to cherish his memory include his children and their spouses, Carol Anne and Ronald Borgstahl of Spring Hill. Kansas and Merlin E. and Marie Whiteing of Mapleton. Iowa; four grandchildren: Leigh Anne Frith and husband, the Rev. Mark Frith of Olathe, Kansas; Kaye Lynn Borgstahl of Gardner, Kansas; and her fiance, Andy Gray of Blue Springs, Missouri; Charles Whiteing and wife, Janet of Slater, Iowa and Jane Whiteing of Ames, Iowa; four great-grandchildren: Aaron and Hannah Frith of Olathe, Kansas and Andrew and Aidan Whiteing of Slater. Iowa; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Donald and Roberta Yankey of Denison; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at the United Presbyterian Church in Vail, Iowa with the Rev. Dr. Richard J. Shaffer, Jr. and the Rev. Mark Frith officiating. Music for the service included Marie Whiteing singing, "Let's Go To God" and "Morning Will Come" and the congregation singing "What A Friend We Have In Jesus". Louise Whitecotton served as organist. Pallbearers were Charles Whiteing, Sid Leise. Jeff Fitzsimmons, Jim Whiteing, Mark Schwery and Russell Borkowski. Interment was at the Vail Cemetery, Vail. Iowa. Following the interment the family invited everyone to return to the church and join them for a luncheon catered by Hy-Vee of Denison. The Pfannebecker Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements where at 7:00 p.m.. Monday, September 27, 2004 a Masonic Service was held conducted by the Diamond Lodge #422 A.F. & A.M., Vail, Iowa.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Fred Wellendorf (1916 - 1989)

Fred, son of Emil and Mary Brockman Wellendorf, was born Oct. 24,1916, in Ida County, Ia. He attended rural schools and Schleswig High School after which he worked on the farm with his parents.

On May 1, 1937, he was united in marriage with Amelia DeConnick in the Catholic rectory in Ida Grove. They continued to live and work on the farm with his parents because his father had been in an accident and was unable to do farm work.

After the death of his father, Fred and Amelia left the home farm and farmed for many years in the Ida Grove and Vail areas. After their farm sale in 1965 they moved into Westside where Fred managed a feed business. He then drove the Ar-We-Va school bus until he reached the age of 70 when he retired. Fred was a member of the Arcadia Zion Lutheran Church.

Fred had been in failing health for the past two years and died at the Manning General Hospital on Friday, Feb. 24, 1989, at the age of 72 years and four months.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Fred is survived by his wife, Amelia, of Westside; by his son, Richard Wellendorf and his wife, Kaye of Fresno, Calif.; by his daughter, Rita and her husband, Gerald Beck of Manning; by five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren as follows: Kirn and her husband, Bart Duffey, Mark Wellendorf and his wife, April and sons, Michael and Christopher, all of Fresno, Calif., Dan Beck of Kansas City, Kan., Dave Beck and his wife, Shari and son, Josh of Carroll and Donald Beck of Manning; by two brothers, Elmer Wellendorf of Deloit and Magnus Wellendorf and his wife, Ir-ma of Vail; by two sisters, Mrs. Ella Schelldorf of Holstein and Iona and her husband, Laverne Thraen of Omaha; and by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at Ohde Funeral Home in Manning on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Robert Riggert of Zion Lutheran Church of Manning officiating. Selections were "Beautiful Savior" and "How Great Thou Art" by Margaret Backhaus, soloist and Paula Weiss, organist. Interment was in the Morgan Township Cemetery at Schleswig. Pallbearers were Wayne Jans, Robert Nielsen, Wesley Stoelk, Glen Meyer, Don Nobiling and Duane Vetter. Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Fred J. Jepsen (1917 - 2000)

Fred J. Jepsen was born on a farm in Hanover Township, near Schleswig, Iowa, December 31, 1917, the son of Herman and Dora Beeck Jepsen. He died Sunday, April 23, 2000 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa at the age of eighty-two.

Fred grew up on a farm in Hanover Township and attended a rural school near his home. After completing his education, he farmed for various area farmers until entering the United States Army on March 27, 1941. While in the service, Fred served with the 60th Infantry Battalion and the 9th Armored Division. He served in the Rhineland, and Central Europe during the Battle of the Bulge and was decorated with the American Defense Service Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal. Additionally, he qualified as an expert Thompson Submachine Gunner, Expert Rifle and pistol sharpshooter, and wore the Combat Infantry Badge.

On December 15, 1942, Fred was united in marriage to Irene Meggers at the Zion Lutheran Parsonage in Denison by Rev. C.W. Schmidt. Fred continued serving his country until July 27, 1945. After receiving his honorable discharge, Fred worked for two years as a mechanic for Eddie Baak, and later operated a maintainer in Crawford County for two years.

He subsequently returned to farming from 1947 to 1980 when he retired. Fred then worked as a security guard for Iowa Beef Packing Company, for fifteen years, retiring in 1996 for health reasons.

He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. In his leisure time, Fred enjoyed working in his yard and tending garden. He was also fond of fishing, woodworking, bowling and playing cards. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig and their Fellowship Club, and the V.F.W. Post 3930.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Beverly Jepsen in 1969; one son, Curtis, in infancy and one sister, Irene Abbe.

He is survived by his wife, Irene of Schleswig; four daughters: Karen Wood and her husband, Vern of Denison; Betty Moore of South Sioux City, Nebraska; Marlene Bachman and her husband, Fred of Schleswig; Pat Bilsten and her husband, Mark of Denison; four sons: Richard and his fiancee, Ruth Burk of Denison; Lonny and his wife, Tracey of Early, Iowa; Gaylen and his wife, Jayne of Denison and David and his friend Laurie Martinez of Schleswig; fifteen grandchildren; one great-grandchild; four brothers: Herman of Ricketts; Vernon and his wife, Diane of Ricketts; Edwin and his wife, Marilyn of Denison and Victor and his wife, Shirley of Battle Creek; one brother-in-law, Ted Abbe of Schleswig; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Schleswig, Iowa. Rev. Merle Mahnken officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery. Marlene Hight provided the organ accompaniment for vocalists, Colleen Wessel singing "Rock of Ages" and Erin Bilsten singing "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound" and congregational hymn "How Great Thou Art". Military honors were American Legion Post Number 645 and V.F.W. Post Number #3930 Schleswig, Iowa. Pallbearers were the Military Honorguard. The family invited everyone to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Ladies Aid. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Fred A. Zage (1910 - 1991)

Fred A. Zage was born Oct. 31, 1910 the son of Bernard and Dora Jepsen Zage. He died Jan. 27, 1991 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa at the age of 80.

Fred was born on the family farm in Hanover Township where he lived with his family. He was baptized a Christian on Oct. 8, 1911 and reaffirmed his faith in Christ through Confirmation Jan. 8, 1926. As a young boy, he received his formal education in a rural school near his home.

After completing his education, he remained on the farm working for his parents until March 16, 1937, when he and Lavern Schmidt were united in marriage. Lavern and Fred made their home on a farm in Otter Creek Township and remained there for 26 years before retiring from farming as a consequence of ill health. They moved to Denison where Fred continued working in various places in the community until retiring in 1976.

Fishing occupied some of his spare time, and he enjoyed traveling with his wife Lavern, for whom he had a life long devotion. The affection he had for his Lord and Savior was evidenced by his continued membership in the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, also serving on its board of Trustees.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother-in-law, Carl Holtman in 1984. Survivors include his wife Lavern of Denison; one sister, Adela Holtman of Denison and one brother, Marvin and his wife Leila of Schleswig. Other survivors include nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Pastor Kurt Kaiser and Pastor Philip E. Bloch officiated with interment in Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Mrs. Karen Kahl was organist and Reynold Gehlsen was soloist. The solo selection was "Abide With Me" and the congregational hymns were "Rock of Ages" and "I'm But a Stranger Here." Honorary pallbearers were Milroy Groth, Harry Hass, Andy Wiebers and Larry Schmidt. Serving as pallbearers were Delaine Listamann, Reynold Gehlsen, Ray Fouts, Kenneth Nelson Jr., Ronald Paulsen and Earl Schmidt. Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Walter A. Huebner and Sons' Funeral Service in Denison, Iowa.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Frieda Catherine (Hansen) Andresen (1911 - 1995)

Frieda Catherine Andresen was born October 17, 1911, the daughter of Andrew and Anna Petersen Hansen. She died Saturday, August 5, 1995, at the Willow Dale Care Center in Battle Creek, Iowa at the age of 83.

She was born in Schleswig, Iowa. As a child her family moved to Danbury. She attended country school near Danbury, graduating from Danbury High School in 1929 and then from Morningside College in Sioux City.

On September 28, 1935, Frieda was united in marriage to Elmer Heh Andresen in Elk Point, S.D. After her marriage, the couple lived in Oto, Iowa. In 1936 they moved to a farm at Midway, rural Woodbury County, until 1945 when they moved to farm near Battle Creek where they lived until 1954 when they moved into Battle Creek. The marriage was blessed with the birth of three children.

She was an active member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Battle Creek and was active in Women's Circle. She enjoyed her garden, flowers and quilting.

Frieda was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son, Norman Gail Andresen, son-in-law, Bernard Bock Sr., and a sister, Ida Furne.

Survivors include two daughters, Pat Bock of Dorchester, Wisconsin and Judie and her husband, Donald Clausen of Schleswig, Iowa; one brother and his wife, Fred and Margaret Hansen of Sioux City; 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at St. John's Lutheran Church in Battle Creek, Iowa with Rev. Donald H. Winterrowd officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Battle Creek. Ciha Funeral Home in Battle Creek was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Frieda Marie (Lueck) Lingle (1916 - 1987)

Frieda Marie Lingle was born March 24, 1916 on a farm in Washington Township, Crawford County, to the parents of Fred and Minnie Hitz Lueck. She attended country school and Denison High School. She was baptized on May 1, 1916, was confirmed March 29, 1931, and was a lifetime member of the Zion Lutheran Church of Denison, Iowa.

On March 24, 1937, she was united in marriage to Frank Lingle in Denison. After their marriage, they farmed south of Denison, and then moved to Hanover Township, Crawford County. They retired in December of 1969 and moved to Denison where they made their home.

Her husband died June 7, 1977, and Frieda continued to live in her home until Jan. of 1987 when she entered the Denison Care Center.

Frieda died at the Denison Care Center on May 15, 1987. At the time of her death, she had attained the age of 71 years, 1 month and 21 days.

Frieda was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Minnie Lueck; one brother, Paul Lueck; and husband, Frank Lingle. She is survived by no immediate family.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. May 19 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison with the Rev. Kurt Kaiser officiating. Music for the service was provided by Henry Henningsen singing, Rock of Ages and How Great Thou Art, and the congregation singing, I Know That My Redeemer Lives. Anna Marie Rabe served as the organist. Pallbearers included Don Murray, Erwin Listamann, Larry Winans, Wernes Dethmann, Steve Rogers, and Delaine Listamann. Interment was at the Oakland Cemetery in Denison. The Pfannebecker Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of the arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Fritz Herman Strissel (1917 - 1993)

Fritz Herman Strissel was born June 22, 1917, the son of Herman and Dora Muhl Strissel. He died at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison on Thursday, Oct. 14, 1993 at the age of seventy-six years.

Fritz was born in Denison and received his formal education at the Zion Lutheran School in Denison and attended the Denison Community High School. In 1933, Fritz moved to the family farm south of Denison where he began his farming career.

On Nov. 12, 1939, he was united in marriage to Laretta Arnold at the Zion Lutheran Parsonage by Rev. C.W. Schmidt. The couple settled on the farm and were blessed with the birth of four children.
Fritz was a loving and caring husband and father who devoted his life to his family and worked hard to provide for them. In 1984, the couple retired from farming but remained living on the farm.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. In his spare time, Fritz enjoyed fishing, boating, billiards and socializing at coffee with the boys. He had a special love for his granddaughters, and a love for his dog, Rocky. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and for 28 years he enjoyed the annual motorcycle convention at Sturgis, South Dakota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Elsie and two daughters, Judith and Janet.

Survivors include his wife, Laretta of Denison; two sons, Jerry and his wife, Dorothy of Harlan and Daniel of Denison; three granddaughters, Shannon, Vicki, and Jeri all of Harlan; and one sister-in-law, Phyllis Auen and her husband, Orville of Denison.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 18, 1993 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison with Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Rev. Philip E. Bloch officiating the service and graveside rites held at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Denison. Karen Kahl provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Larry Boeck, singing, "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound" and the congregational hymn, "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." Those serving as honorary pallbearers were Reiney Mundt, Gene Bagwell, James Kragel, Robert Paup, Robert Boeck and Jim Leinen. Pallbearers were: Russell Dillavou, Ron Schimmer, Merlin Arnold, Edward Arnold, Miles Rohan and Paul Losh. The family invited everyone to join them for lunch at the church, served by the Dorcas Society. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of the arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gerhardt Pithan (1915 - abt. 1990)

Gerhardt Pithan of Hawthorne, Calif., formerly from Denison, died Monday, March 25 at the age of 75 years after a long illness.

He was born in Boyer, Iowa on Dec. 6, 1915, the son of Henry and Augusta Pithan. He received his education in the public schools, graduating from the Denison High School in 1933. He moved to California in 1936. He served in the U.S. Army during Wrold War II, stationed in Iceland and in Germany as a combat engineer.

He was married to Helen McGuire in 1949. One son, Michael, was born to this union. Gerhardt worked with the Department of Water and Power for the City of Los Angeles for 28 years and worked for H & R Block until his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother that died in infancy and one nephew, Richard Hansen.

He is survived by his son Michael and his wife, Melody of Scotts Valley, Calif.; one sister, Helen and her husband, Albrecht Koch of Ricketts; and one stepsister, Leona Moorhead of Anaheim, Calif.; also nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at the Douglas and Dunaway Mortuary and interment was at the V.A. Cemetery in Sawtelle, Calif.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gertrude A. (Berndt) Holzfaster (1915 - 1992)

Gertrude A. Holzfaster was born on May 30, 1915, the daughter of Carl and Elsa Hadenfeld Berndt, and lived her lifetime in Denison, Iowa. She was received into God's Kingdom of Grace through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism on July 11, 1915 at Zion Lutheran Church and later confirmed her Christian Faith there on April 13, 1930. Gertrude was graduated from the Denison High School with the class of 1933.

On August 18, 1944, Gertrude was united in marriage with Donald Holzfaster at the Zion Lutheran Church. They made their home together in Denison. Gertrude was employed at Ad-Visor when the first issue was published. She was employed as bookkeeper for Iowa Breeder's Hatchery for 18 years, then as bookkeeper for Federal Land Bank for 15 years.

Through the years in conjunction with her employment, Gertrude was secretary and bookkeeper for Vail, Westside Presbyterian Credit Union for 12 years, Secretary for Denison Airport Commission for 20 years and Secretary for Oakland Cemetary Association for 18 years. Gertrude was a Sunday School teacher at Zion for 12 years and was a former member of Zion Ladie's Aid.

Don died on August 26, 1978 and Gertrude continued to reside at their home where she remained active with church and community activities and her many hobbies which included cooking, crafts, ceramics, and china painting.

Gertrude died on Sunday, May 24, 1992 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital, following a lingering illness at the age of 76 years, 11 months, and 24 days.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. Those she leaves to cherish her memory in their hearts are her brother, Raymond and his wife, Birdie Berndt of Carroll, Iowa and her neice, Donna Rae and her husband Randy Jones and their son Jeff of Des Moines, Iowa; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 27, 1992, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa with Reverend Kurt Kaiser and Reverend Philip Bloch officiating. Karen Kahl served as organist and accompanied the congregation as they sang, "How Great Thou Art", "I am but a Stranger Here", "I Know that My Redeemer Lives", and "God be with You". Casket bearers included Jeff Jones, Brian Meyer, Dan Pfannebecker, Darold Sieck, Alvin Overhue, Ralph Hoffmeier, and Chuck Luvaas. Interment was in Oakland Cemetery in Denison, Iowa. The Pfannebecker Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gertrude Caroline Marie (Allerheiligen) Whited (1915 - 1983)

Gertrude Caroline Marie Whited was born on November 20, 1915 at Hanover, Kansas the daughter of Henry and Anna Wulf Allerheiligen. She died on Saturday morning, August 12, 1983 at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital, Denison, Iowa at the age of 68.

Gertrude was raised and educated in Kansas. In 1931, she was united in marriage to Myrle McCullough. To this union six children were born. After moving from Kansas to Iowa, they made their home in Denison. For many years, Gertrude was employed in the Denison community.

On January 18,1960, Gertrude was united in marriage to Warren Whited in Council Bluffs. Together they made their home in Denison until 1978 when they moved to Deloit. Gertrude has been a longtime member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

In addition to her parents, Gertrude was preceded in death by one son, Jessie McCullough, one step daughter, Arlene Bolken, two grandchildren, one sister Helen and a brother Herbert.

Survivors include her husband Warren of Deloit, her children Patricia, Mrs. Warren Thies of Ute, Myrle McCullough of Wichita, KS, Theresa, Mrs. Robert Symington of Santa Anna, CA, Elizabeth, Mrs. James Wonderly of Grand Island, NE and Mary Kay Thompson of Krum, TX; her step children, Delores, Mrs. Bob Slater of Denison, Irene Stone of Wills Point, TX, Gale Whited of Denison, Ruby, Mrs. Alvin Kimmen of Harlan, Judith, Mrs. Cecil Clayton of Isabella, MO, Gerald Whited of Deloit and Yolanda, Mrs. Fred Sherburn of Wrightwood, CA. Also surviving are forty-seven grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, two brothers, Otto Allerheiligen of Beatrice, NE and Clarence Allerheiligen of Marysville, MO and Mrs. Olga Downing of Tampa, FL.

Funeral services .were held on Tuesday, August 16, 1983, at the First Baptist Church in Denison. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery near Denison. The Rev. Warren Wilson officiated at the services. Mrs. Wilbur Petersen served as organist with Henry Henningsen as soloist. Hymns for the service were How Great Thou Art and What A Friend We Have In Jesus. Pallbearers were Dale Holzfaster, Roger Weinbrandt, Robert Paup, Don Ossian, Dennis Marten and Wilbur Petersen. Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Huebner Funeral Home of Denison, Iowa.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gertrude Marie (Backhaus) Ernst (1913 - 1998)


Gertrude Marie Anna Backhaus Ernst was born on March 17, 1913, in Ida County to Carl and Clara Schumann Backhaus. She died on Sunday, August 23, 1998, at the age of eighty-five.

Gertrude was baptized in the Trinity Lutheran Church at Grant Township on May 18, 1913 and confirmed in the Lutheran faith on March 24, 1929 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig.

On September 28, 1932, Gertrude was united in marriage to Hugo Frederick Ernst at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig. They lived on a farm northwest of Schleswig. Hugo passed away April 3, 1964 and Gertrude continued to live on the farm till 1974, when she moved to Schleswig.

Gertrude was a member of the United Church of Christ, the Ladies Guild and the V.F.W Auxiliary. She was a loving and caring mother and grandmother who enjoyed gardening and baking for her family. She loved to travel and had the opportunity to travel to Italy, Germany, and Greece. In her leisure time Gertrude enjoyed feeding the birds and fishing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Clara Backhaus; her husband, Hugo; one sister, Lucille Kruse; two brothers, Otto Backhaus and one in Infancy; and one grandson, Steve Ernst.

Gertrude is survived by the following children, Norma Jean Lyman and her husband, Gerald of Grand Junction, Colorado; Charles Ernst and his wife Traudl of Roxboro, North Carolina; Bernadine Kragel and her husband, Paul of Schleswig; Marlene Harper of New London, Iowa; Jolene Hoefling and her husband, John of Odebolt, Hugo C. Ernst Jr. and his wife, Cynthia of Grand Junction, Colorado. Other survivors are thirteen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren; one sister. Fern Stier of Schleswig; one brother, Carl Backhaus and his wife, Janet of Aurelia; one sister-in-law, Clara Schwieso of Marana, Arizona; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 27, 1998 at the United Church of Christ in Schleswig, Iowa. Rev. Gordon Hoyt officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery, Schleswig. Dorothy Jessen provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Rubie Kastner singing "How Great Thou Art" and "Go Tell It On The Mountain" and congregational hymn "Lift High The Cross". Honorary pallbearers were: Cynthia Miller, Timothy Jensen, Michael Ernst, Mark Hoefling, James Ernst, Sara Ernst and Pam Stalling. Pallbearers were: Michele Crandall, Rodney Hoefling, Randall Kragel, Gayle Lyman, Ryan Kragel and Neil Kragel. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Women's Guild. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gifford Stanley Wenzel (1917 - 2000)

Gifford Stanley, son of Ernest and Alvena Hamann Wenzel was born September 13, 1917, on the family farm near Manilla, Iowa. When he was five years old, Gifford's family moved onto his grandfather's farm.

He attended school at Nishnabotna #5, which was located on the family farm. When Gifford's parents moved into Manilla in 1947, he took over the farming operation. Shortly after his father's death, Gifford moved into town to care for his mother until her death.

On September 25, 1981, Gifford was united in marriage with Phyllis Olberding Kroll at the Sacred Heart Church in Manilla. Gifford and Phyllis made their home in Manilla.

Gifford was a very active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and was a charter member of the Community Club. He enjoyed gardening, restoring and refinishing wooden furniture and participating with the restoration of the Klondike Hotel.

Gifford had been in failing health since November of 1999, and on Saturday, July 22, 2000, died of cancer at his home in Manilla. He was 82 years, 10 months and 9 days of age.

Gifford was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Mae Popp.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis Wenzel of Manilla: five stepchildren: Madeline and her husband Walter Onken of Carroll; Peter Kroll and his wife Sue of Blackhawk, Colorado; Mike Kroll of Denison; Dan Kroll and his wife Sandra of Fort Collins, Colorado; Mary and her husband Mike Schindler of Manilla; six step grandchildren: Jeffrey Onken and his wife Louise of Boone; Mark Onken of Ames; Ashley, Michael and Christopher Schindler of Manilla; Hannah Kroll of Fort Collins, Colorado; a sister Alice Bornhoft of Manilla; and by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, July 24, 2000 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla, Iowa. Pastor Timothy Geitz officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Nishnabotna Cemetery in Manilla. Marilyn Backhaus served as organist accompanied by vocalists, Marlene Jahn and Kay Rutherford singing, "Amazing Grace" and "Abide With Me" and for congregational hymn, "On Eagles' Wings". Those serving as casketbearers were Byron Bornhoft, Doug Bornhoft, Denny Bornhoft, Brad Georgius, Patrick Mooney and Father Robert Gralapp. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch. The Ohde Funeral Home in Manilla was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gilbert Carl Friedrich Mundt (1911 - 2000)

Gilbert Carl Friedrich "Gib", son of Harry and Sophie Schutt Mundt, was born January 15, 1911, in Nishnabotna Township, near Manilla, Iowa. He was baptized on May 25, 1911. Gilbert attended Nishnabotna Township School through the eight grade.

Following his schooling, Gilbert worked as a hired hand for various farmers in the Manilla area. He was confirmed on April 10, 1927, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla. Gilbert spent several summers in the Red River Valley of North Dakota helping his uncles with the harvest.

On January 21, 1947, Gilbert was united in marriage with Virginia Ruth Holdsworth at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla. Eight children were born to this union. Gilbert and Virginia farmed near Manilla in Crawford and Shelby Counties. In 1973 they moved to town but continued to farm for two more years.

Gilbert was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church. He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, playing kitten ball, pitching horseshoes, reading, watching television, and watching and feeding birds.

On Monday, June 19, 2000; Gilbert died at St. Anthony Regional Hospital in Carroll, Iowa following complications of surgery. He was 89 years, 5 months and 4 days of age.

Besides his parents, Gilbert was preceded in death by two brothers Leroy Mundt and Orville Mundt, and a sister Erma Jorgensen.

Gilbert is survived by his wife Virginia Mundt of Manilla; eight children: Marcus Mundt and his wife June of Harlan; Wanda and her husband Tom Gusewelle of Chesapeake, Virginia; Harry Mundt and his wife Pamela of Ames; James Mundt and his wife Karen of Chariton; Sharon Santi of Huxley; Doris and her husband Jerry Witte of Omaha, Nebraska; Myra and her husband Tom Schraeder of Lenexa, Kansas; Verdell Mundt and his wife Nancy of Council Bluffs; 18 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren Samantha McIlwain and Dominick Muller; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Laverne Jorgensen and Esther Mundt Jorgensen of Manilla; Mary Mundt of Manning; Vernon Holdsworth and his wife Delia Holdsworth of Harlan; Opal Holdsworth of Denison; Lester Boyens of Manilla; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, June 22, 2000 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla, Iowa, with Pastor Timothy Geitz officiating. Bonnie Lorenzen served as the organist accompanied by Mark Grundmeier, vocalist singing "How Great Thou Art" and "Be Still My Soul" and congregational hymn, "My Course Is Run, Praise God". Honorary casketbearers were Gilbert's granddaughters: Seana Santi, Brenda Mcllwain, Jolene Muller, Melissa Mundt, Andrea Mundt, Jessica Mundt, Angela Witte, Jill Gusewelle, Janya Gusewelle and Shelly Hornbeck. Casketbearers were Gilbert's grandsons: Wesley Mundt, Shad Hornbeck, Nickclaus Mundt, Robin Witte, Jospeh Mundt, Aaron Schraeder, Jared Guswelle and Brian Schraeder. Interment was at the Nishnabotna Cemetery in Manilla, Iowa. The Ohde Funeral Home in Manilla was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gladys (Swope) Christiansen (1916 - 1999)

Gladys Christiansen was born May 15, 1916, the daughter of Harry and Maggie Meeker Swope. She died, Saturday, her birthday at St. Joseph's Hospital in Omaha at the age of eighty-three.

Gladys was born and grew up in Ottumwa, Iowa, receiving her education in the Ottumwa Community Schools and graduating from high school with the class of 1935.

She continued her education at the American Institute of Business and subsequently worked as a legal secretary for Floyd Page and Andrew Bell law firms in Denison. Additionally, Gladys was employed by the Montgomery Ward Co. in Denison and the Farmers Home Administration.

July 5, 1948, Gladys was united in marriage to Marcus Christiansen at the home of Dr. and Ruth Warham, by Rev. C. W. Schmidt. The couple settled in Denison, and raised a family of three children.

In her youth, Gladys enjoyed swimming and tennis. More recently, her leisure time was occupied with reading, working cross word puzzles and caring for her flowers. She was particularly fond of roses. Gladys was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, their Dorcas Society and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Edna and Wanda.

Survivors include her husband, Mark of Denison; two daughters, Miriam "Brownie" Runge and her husband, Richard of Iowa City, Iowa; Jan Beane and her husband, Kurt of Des Moines; one son, Steve and his wife, Pat of Beaverton, Oregon; four grandchildren, one great-grandchild; one sister, Wilma Johnson of Ottumwa; and one brother-in-law, Ora Lovell of Circleville, Ohio.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, May 18, 1999 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa. Rev. Kurt Kaiser and Rev. Daniel Gifford officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Karen Kahl provided the organ accompaniment for congregational singing "Abide With Me! Fast Falls the Eventide", "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and "I'm But a Stranger Here". Those serving as pallbearers were: Ron Henningsen, Alfred Petersen, Butch Munson, Dennis Marten, Cole Runge and Kurt Beane. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Dorcas Society. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gladys Gertrude (Day) Siemer (1912 - 2001)

Gladys Gertrude Siemer was born September 6, 1912, the daughter of Arthur and Annie Cory Day. She died at her home in Spickard, Missouri, Friday, September 14, 2001 at the age of eighty-nine.

Gladys was born in Laddonia, Missouri, in Rollo County. As a young child, she moved with her family to Kansas where she began her early education. Moving with her family, she continued her education in school in Laddonia and rural Mexico, Missouri, Holly Springs, Iowa, Smithland, Iowa and Denison, where she completed her education at the Denison Community High School, graduating with the class of 1931.

In 1931, Gladys moved to Paola, Kansas, living with a sister and working as a housekeeper for area families. She then went to Florida for the winter, and lived with another sister as she worked in the region during the harvesting season before settling in Denison, Iowa in 1934.

April 25, 1935, Gladys was united in marriage to Frank Siemer in Le Mars, Iowa. The couple settled in Crawford County near Denison and was blessed with the birth of twelve children. In 1978, the family bought a cattle farm in Spickard, Missouri where they raised cattle.

Gladys was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother, always enjoying her family with zest. She was the matriarch of the family, raising her children, with affection and discipline, listening to each as she guided them through their lives and providing for them a loving and caring atmosphere that has left a legacy of closeness with each other and their families. Her strength is further evidenced by her having raised other children with the same degree of affection as her own.

In her leisure time, she enjoyed needle work, such as sewing and embroidery. She also enjoyed cooking and baking; reading, crossword puzzles; and caring for her many house plants that have survived many generations. She did carpentry around the house, but most of all, she enjoyed her family. She displayed a willingness to enjoy life by her many activities, which even included dune bugging at the age of eighty-eight.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two children, Gertrude and Gladys Irene, both as infants, her husband, Frank; one granddaughter, Sharon Macumber; five brothers; and four sisters.

Survivors include: five daughters, Marilyn Hiltebrand and husband, Dale of Yuma, Arizona; Rosalie Macumber and husband, James of Manilla, Iowa; Lois Maxwell and husband, Dick of Spencer, Iowa; Patricia Nemitz and husband, Randy of Waukee, Iowa; and Pam Lane and husband, Mark of Des Moines, Iowa; five sons, Max and wife, Mary of Princeton, Missouri; Rex and wife, Dona, and Gail and wife, Betty all of Spickard, Missouri; Dean and wife, Donna of Nixa, Missouri; and David and wife, Karol of Chariton, Iowa; forty grandchildren, fifty-three greatgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 18, 2001 at the Denison Baptist Church in Denison, Iowa. Rev. Mark Aurand officiated the service and grave side rites held at Oakland Cemetery in Denison. Organist Mary Jane Petersen provided the organ accompaniment for soloist Cayanna Reinier as she sang "On Eagles Wings", and "In the Garden", and for congregational hymns "The Old Rugged Cross", and "How Great Thou Art". Those serving as pallbearers were: Richard Jepsen, Chris Petersen, Nathan Day, Ric Siemer, Lany Landgraff, Mike Siemer, Jeffery Day, and Cory Day. The family invited everyone in attendance to return to the church and join them in fellowship and lunch served by the Fellowship team. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Gladys Jeanette (Jakso) Grell (1917 - 1996)

Gladys Jeanette Grell the daughter of John and Johanna Kvis Jakso was born August 25, 1917. She died at the Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove on Saturday, October 5, 1996 at the age of seventy-nine.

Jeanette was baptized in Christ and confirmed in 1931 at Friedens Evangelical and Reformed Church, Schleswig, Iowa. She received her education at the Schleswig High School and was Valedictorian of the Class of 1934.

She was employed by Bernhard Evers in the Evers Store, in Schleswig, until attending the National Business Training School in Sioux City. She was later employed by Farmers Mutual Insurance Association in Schleswig and the Farmers State Bank in Schleswig.

On November 2, 1941, Jeanette was united in marriage to Ernie Grell at the Friedens Evangelical and Reformed Church in Schleswig. The couple made their home in San Diego, California and were blessed with the birth of one daughter. In 1944, the couple returned to Iowa and lived on various farms in Ida and Crawford County, where they opened their home to a foster daughter, Mary Pickel Busch.

Jeanette was a very devoted member of the United Church of Christ in Schleswig, which was evident in her service to her Lord by teaching Sunday School for many years and singing in the choir. She was also a member of the Guild, where she served as past president, Pulpit Committee, Membership Committee, Program Chairman for Guild work and was also associated with the Christian Builders, now known as the Youth Fellowship. She was also very active in 4-H and was nominated by the Schleswig Pioneers 4-H Club and chosen as an Honorary 4-H Member of Crawford County.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ernie in 1991, two brothers, two sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law and her foster daughter.

Survivors include one daughter, Sharon Hill and her husband, Charles of West Dundee, Illinois; four grandchildren, Michelle Behrendt and her husband, Keith; Marty Leedahl and his wife, Sarah; Robert Hill and his wife, Anna; Tia Faciano and her husband, Joe; seven great-grandchildren, Kayleen Leedahl, Joseph and Christopher Myers; Kendall Behrendt, Myles Leedahl, Nikko and Dominick Faciano; and one sister, Henrietta Manship of Van Home, Iowa.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 8, 1996 at the United Church of Christ in Schleswig, Iowa. Rev. Gordon Hoyt officiated the service and grave side rites held at the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig. Dorothy Jessen provided the organ accompaniment for soloist, Urban Badenhop singing "Amazing Grace" and "How Great Thou Art". Those serving as pallbearers were: Gaylen Bahnsen, Robert Kastner, Verdell Kastner, John Bahnsen, Randy Struck and Glenn Wigg. The family invited everyone in attendance at the service to join them in fellowship and lunch at the church, served by the Ladies Guild. The Huebner Funeral Home in Schleswig was in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Glenn F. Johannsen (1916 - 2002)

Memorial services were held April 4, 2002 for Glenn F. Johannsen, 85, of Rocklin, California. Mr. Johannsen was born October 31, 1916, in Crawford County, Iowa, the son of Louie and Emma (Thams) Johannsen. He and his two brothers, Kermit and Allan, were raised on the family farm north of Ricketts, Iowa, and he graduated from Schleswig High School.

Glenn was a 1st Lieutenant in the Air Force serving in W.W. II as a navigator. He was shot down over Rumania on April 4, 1944 and was a P.O.W. After returning from the war, he graduated from Bowling Green State University in Ohio, when, he met and married his wife Joanne. To this union, two children were born. He worked for National Cash Register Co. in Toledo and later moved to California and was employed by McClellan AFB, California until his retirement in 1976.

Survivors include his wife, Joanne; a son Richard of Roseville, California; daughter Susan of Navato California; a brother, Kermit of Philadelphia, Penn., a niece, Lorna Winsor of Schleswig, Iowa and a nephew, Roger L. Johannsen of Arthur, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Allan. Air Force Honor Military Rights were conducted.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Golda (Fuller) Miller (1911 - 1983)

Golda, daughter of Fred and Flora Bohart Fuller, was born Oct. 3, 1911, near Thomas, Okla. The Fuller family moved to the Manilla area when Goldie was still quite young. She attended rural schools near Manilla, and attended Manilla High School.

She was united in marriage with Clarence Miller on Oct. 15, 1931. Throughout her life Goldie assisted her husband in his businesses. They operated Miller's Ford garage in Manilla from 1936 until 1950; and then Miller's Chevrolet garage until 1973. They also owned Motel Denison in Denison for ten years. They retired in 1973 and made their home in Manilla. Clarence died last November 30.

Goldie died unexpectedly at her home in Manilla on May 6, 1983,. at the age of 71 year's, seven months, and three days.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a sister, Mrs. Mary Jepsen; two brothers, George and Garth.

She is survived by her twin sister, Sadie (Mrs. Art) Fascher of Harlan and by her brother, Fred Fuller and his wife Elsie of Denison; also by two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Garth (Hilda) Fuller of Manilla, and Mrs. George (Irene) Fuller of Sioux City. Also surviving are nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Goldie was a member of the United Methodist Church in Manilla.

Funeral services were held May 9 at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Manilla. Rev. John Cornish officiated. Kay Rutherford was vocalist and Barbara Agan, organist Honorary pallbearers were Eldred Huffaker, Carl Mundt, Austin King and Jack Olberding. Pallbearers were Jim Fuller, Ron Fascher, Peter Jepsen, Larry Fuller, Harold Eggers and Charles Miller. Interment was in the Nishnabotna Cemetery with Ohde Funeral Home, Manilla, in charge of arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Goldie A. (Bliesman) Baker (1919 - 2003)

Goldie A. Baker was born February 13, 1919, the daughter of William and Minnie Linke Bliesman. She died Friday, January 3, 2003, at Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove, Iowa at the age of eighty-three.

Goldie was born in Otter Creek Township and was confirmed on April 9, 1933. She received her education in the Otter Creek Township rural school.

On May 21, 1941, Goldie was united in marriage to Raymond Baker at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig, Iowa. The couple settled on the Baker home farm and was blessed with the birth of two children.

After their marriage, Goldie helped Raymond with the farm work and also took care of her mother. In her spare time, she would write in her diaries, a routine she kept for the past sixty years. She also put together scrap books and enjoyed working with flowers, and spending time with her grandson and great-grandchildren. She liked visiting with her family and friends and was a very loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Raymond and Goldie celebrated sixty-one years of marriage this past year. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Kiron.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Raymond; her daughter, Karen; her son, Roger and his wife, Karen, one grandson, Shaun and his wife, Jen; and two great-grandchildren, Ty and Madison, all of Kiron; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, January 6, 2003 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Kiron, Iowa. Rev. David Loeschen officiated the service and grave side rites held at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery in Stockholm Township, Kiron, Iowa. Organist Lois Gronau provided the organ accompaniment for the congregational hymns, "I'm But A Stranger Here", "What A Friend We Have in Jesus", and "Children of the Heavenly Father". Those serving as pallbearers were: Bonard Christiansen, Tedd Bliesman, Shaun Baker, Wayne Bliesman, Lorenz Schultz, and Melvin Baker. The family invited everyone to return to the church and join them in fellowship and lunch served by the Ladies Aid. The Huebner Funeral Home in Denison was in charge of the arrangements.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Hans T. Wellendorf (1910 - 1986)

Hans T. Wellendorf was born on December 15, 1910, near Schleswig, Iowa, the son of Louis and Bertha Lohse Wellendorf. He died on Monday. July 7, 1986. at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, at the age of 75.

Hans spent his early years on a farm near Schleswig. He attended rural schools and graduated from Schleswig High School in 1926. After graduation, he farmed on the family farm near Schleswig.

On March 20, 1938, Hans married Lillian Louise Miller of Ida Grove by Rev. Edward Zchoche. Hans and Lillian retired from farming in 1970 and moved to Schleswig. He then went to work for the Denison Municipal Utilities and worked for ten years. Hans was a long-time member of the United Church of Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Lillian; his son, Jonathon and wife Diane of Parachute, Colorado; two sisters, Lena, Mrs. Byron Moeller of Loveland, Colorado, and Emma,, Mrs. Howard Hugg of Westside. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Destiny of Parachute, Colorado and Jonathon R. Wellendorf of Loveland, Colorado.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 10, 1986, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Church of Christ in Schleswig. Burial was in the Morgan Cemetery. The Rev. Darrell T. Bailey officiated at the services. Music selections included "How Great Thou Art" and "For Those Tears I Died" and were provided by Mrs. Barb Buffum, Mrs. Pam Gronau and Mrs. Janet Lafrentz accompanied by Mrs. Evelyn Johnson. Serving as pallbearers were: Larry Bielenberg, Richard Hugg, Tony Joy, Darrell Miller, Tracey Miller and Kent Streck.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl


Harold Elmer Huskey (1916 - 1983)

Harold Elmer Huskey was born on March 10, 1916 at Deloit, Iowa, the son of William and Daisy Dean Smith Huskey. He died on Wednesday, January 12,1983 at the Bayard Care Center, Bayard, Iowa at the age of 66.

Harold was raised in the Deloit community. He received his formal education in the Deloit Public School System. After the completion of his education he was employed by farmers in the area of his home. For many years he did custom farm work, following the wheat crop through the Dakota's, Minnesota, Nebraska and Kansas. Deloit always remained his home until he entered nursing care facilities in 1972. After moving to the nursing home in Odebolt and later Storm Lake he moved to the Bayard Care Center in Bayard.

In addition to his parents, Harold was preceded in death by one brother in infancy.

Survivors include, his brother Merrill D. Huskey of Carter Lake, Iowa, an uncle, William Smith of Adair, Iowa, a cousin, Dorothy, Mrs. Clarence Dahleen of Fort Dodge, Iowa, two nieces, Patricia Weis and Debra Barnhouse and two nephews, Mike Huskey and David Huskey.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 14, 1983 at 2:00 p.m. at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison. Burial was in the Deloit Cemetery. The Rev. Dennis Bailey of the United Methodist Church in Deloit and Charter Oak officiated at the services. Mrs. Fred Rabe served as organist with Henry Henningsen as soloist for the service. Hymns included Rock of Ages and How Great Thou Art. Serving as pallbearers were members of the family. Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Huebner Funeral Home of Denison.

Transcribed by: Bob Kuehl