Taylor County, Iowa Obituaries B-names

Blood, Margaret Cecelia Scrivner McFarland - Margaret Cecelia, daughter of Reason and Mary Schrivner [Scrivner], was born at Janesville [Zanesville] Ohio, Nov 17, 1836, and died at the home of her niece, Mrs Mary Cook, in Bedford January 7, 1924, aged 87 years, 1 month and 15 days. Early in life, she moved to Platte County, Mo, later moving to Iowa and located in the neighborhood of Siam [Iowa].

She was united in marriage to Carson McFarland, who preceded her in 1858. To this union two sons were born, one of whom died from an accident some years ago. The surviving son, Mose McFarland, now lives at North Platte, Nebraska, and was present at the funeral service.

She was united in marriage to Leonard C. Blood, who also has preceded her. To this union three children were born, two sons and a daughter who died in infancy, Charlie Blood of Cheyenne, Wyo.,was present at the funeral service and William Blood lives at San Diego, Calif.

In early life she made a profession of faith in Christ and united with the M.E. church, afterwards transferring her membership to other religious bodies and at death was a member of the Christian church in Bedford. Funeral services were held at the Christian Church on Thursday, at 10 am, conducted by Leslie R. Cobb, and interment was in the Fairview Cemetery [Bedford, Iowa].

Beck, Adah - Mrs Adah Beck, 76, remembered for her years of service as Siam telephone operator, died at the Municipal Hospital [Clarinda, Iowa] April 5 [1972]. She had been at Gillespie Rest Home in Clarinda for the past six months and at the hopsital for only two hours.

Funeral services for Mrs Beck were held April 7 at Walker Funeral Home with Loren Daly officiating. Burial was at the Siam Cemetery.

Mrs Beck is survived by two daughters: Mrs Muriel (Lenora) Hargis of New Market and Mrs Neil (Gladys) Combs of Gravity; eight grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Mrs Lois Whaley of Council Bluffs is a sister.

Mrs Beck was born May 31, 1895 near Siam, the daughter of Ethan Irvin and Zarilda Smith Oxley. She had been employed at the Glenwood hospital and worked as telephone operator at Siam.

A memorial fund was established for planting trees in the Gravity city park.

Burk, Ella - Mrs Ella Burk, 81, a resident of the Bedford community for many years, died at the Armstrong Hospital Home [Bedford, Iowa] Saturday night. She made her home with Mrs Minnie Oxley southwest of Bedford until she was taken ill last September, when she was brought into Bedford to be cared for.

She is survived by a daughter-in-law, Mrs Ida Burk of Bedford.

The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon, February 2, conducted by Rev A. Douglas Steffenson. Burial was in the Oxley cemetery near the Berea church. Bedford Times Press, Bedford, Iowa, Feb 5, 1942

Bashor, Ora Clyde son of Edmond D. and Mary Bashor was born at Rome, Georgia Apr 17, 1894 and died May 3, 1934 at Clarinda, Iowa. Age 6 he came to Iowa. Later they lived in Oklahoma 6 years. In Sep 1917, he left his Oklahoma home to become a member of the 4th division of the A.E.F. Married Aug 23, 1922 Agnes Sundell of Sharpsburg, Iowa. One son, Lowell Allan Bashor.

Bashor, Mary Susan Arnold daughter of Solomon G. and Jane Armentrout Arnold was born May 29, 1866 near Limestone, Tenn. and died Apr 22, 1949 in New Market. Married Edmond D. Bashor Oct 29, 1885 at Limestone, Tenn. Eight children. She was baptized by her father Rev. Solomon G. Arnold. At the time of her death she was a member of the Salem Church of the Brethren at Lenox.

Bashor, Edmond D., son of Benjamin and Lucy Reed Bashor born Jun 26, 1862 near Limestone, Tenn, died Apr 14, 1955 at the home of his daughter, Pearl and Abner Clark. He and his twin brother were the eldest of a family of 7 children. Preceded by his sister, Christine, brothers Peter and Benjamin, 2 infant brothers, 1 brother George W. of Arlington, Va survives. Married Oct 29, 1885 Mary Susan Arnold. Eight children were born to them: Arnold of New Market, Mrs Harland (Lucy) Howes of Braddyville, Mrs Clark of Clarinda, Wilbur of Salem, Oregon, Flossie, Mrs J.C. Leaverton of Nebraska City, Hazel, Mrs Howard Collins of Hopkins, Mo, Julia, Mrs Dale Ingram of Gravity, and Clyde who died in 1934.

Bloom, Hazel Della, daughter of George and Hattie Bloom, was born July 7, 1899 in Page county, and died March 10, 1940 at the home of her sister, Mrs Paul Morris of Bedford. She was the second daughter of a family of five children.

Bloom, George Peter, was born in Mercer co., Il, May 4, 1870 and died Mar 24, 1938 at Clarinda, Ia. He was the son of John and Catherine Bloom. On Dec 31, 1894 at Shenandoah, Ia he married Hattie Chestnut. To them were born six children. Two children died in infancy and Mary Edna died in 1926 and Sylvia Novinger in 1927. He moved with his parents to Page co, Ia and at age 5, to Dallas twp. Taylor county in 1900. He was one of eleven children.

Bloom, Mrs Hattie, died at St Francis Hospital (Maryville, Mo) Apr 30 (1952). Funeral services were held at the Methodist church in New Market Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev Walter E. Schiel of the Bedford Presbyterian church. Burial was in Dallas Center cemetery. Hattie Chesnut, daughter of William T. and Jane Chesnut was born Aug 10, 1876 in Mercer county, Mo, and died at the age of 75 years, eight months, and 20 days. Early in life she moved with her family to Page county, Iowa. On 31 Dec 1894 she was married to George P. Bloom at Northboro, Iowa. She moved to Taylor county in 1901 and lived in the farm home north of New Market until 12 years ago. After the death of her husband and daughter Hazel she moved to Bedford. They were the parents of six children, two of whom died in infancy. Mary Edna, Sylvia Belle, and Hazel Della also preceded their mother in death. Her husband, George P. Bloom, died in 1938. She is survived by one daughter, Nora B. Morris and husband Paul of Bedford; an only grandchild, Boyd G. Novinger and wife Wilma of Bedford; a son-in-law, Fred S. Novinger of San Bernardino, Calif; two brothers, Jim Chesnut of Coin, Iowa and Grover Chesnut of Adams, Ore.Mrs Bloom always led an active life, and was a devoted mother and grandmother. In addition to caring for her own family, she raised to young manhood a nephew, Maurice Bloom, who now lives in Gresham, Or; and her grandson Boyd G. Novinger, who came into her home after the death of his mother in 1927. She was a member of the Bedford Methodist Church.

Blake, Mrs F.A. - A wire was received here today by relatives of F.A. Blake of Idaho Falls, Idaho, stating that his wife died there yesterday from inflamation of the stomach and bowels. The funeral is to be held next Sunday. She leaves four sons and her husband in her immediate family.

Bashor, Mae Ellen Combs – Clarinda Herald-Journal, Clarinda, Iowa, Jul 25, 1977

Mae Ellen Bashor, daughter of Ida (Wirth) Combs and Charles Combs was born March 9, 1895 at New Market, Iowa, where she spent her entire life and departed from this life July 2, 1977, at the Clarkson Hospital, Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 82 years, 3 months and 23 days.

On November 25, 1913, Mae was married to Arnold Bashor and to this union five children blessed their home; Dalphon, New Market, Iowa; Donald, Corning, Iowa; Dorlene Graham, Nevada, Iowa; Helen Herzberg, Creston, Iowa; Charles, Clarinda, Iowa.

Mae devoted her entire life doing good for her family of which was her most precious possession. Sharing with them their happiness, their sorrows and her greatest high-light was the many visits from her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all of her many friends. Her happiness and patience was an inspiration to all who came in contact with her. Mae was a member of the Methodist church of New Market, the Order of the Eastern Star, the Auxiliary and the Lindsey Club of which she  was a faithful helper.

Mr and Mrs Bashor were extremely privileged to celebrate their 60^th wedding anniversary November 25, 1973, when all of their family were with them. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold, departing May 13, 1974, her parents, three sisters, Lena, Pearl and Velma and four brothers, Harry, Dewey, Johnnie and Glen.

She is also survived by three daughters in law, Rosevelyn, Beverly and Maxine, two sons in law, Dick Graham and Ben Herzberg, 14 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and a host of very dear friends.

To know Mae was truly to love her for her very actions, thoughts and workings were prompted by God’s loving care.

She always leaned to watch for us.

Anxious if we were late,

In winter by the window;

In summer by the gate;

And though we mocked her tenderly

Who had such foolish care,

The long way home would seem more safe.

Because she waited there.

Her thoughts were all so full of us--

She never could forget!

And so I think that where she is

She must be watching yet.

Waiting till we come home to her.

Anxious if we are late --

Watching from heaven’s window

Leaning from heaven’s gate.

Funeral services were held July 5 at the Walker Funeral Home with Rev Ron Blix officiating. Shirley Larson was soloist. The grandsons, Ronald Bashor, Terry Bashor, Jimmy Bashor, Kevin Herzberg, Lanny Herzberg, Brent Herzberg, and Dan Bashor, were casket bearers. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery at New Market [Iowa].

Bashor, Mae E. Combs – Clarinda Herald-Journal, Clarinda, Iowa July 4, 1977

Services held for Mae Bashor

Mae E. Bashor, 82, of New Market died Saturday night at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha [Nebraska] following a short illness.

She was born Mar 9, 1895, near New Market, the daughter of Charles and Ida Wirth Combs.

She was married to Arnold Bashor, who preceded her in death May 13, 1974. They had farmed before moving into New Market several years ago.

Funeral services were held this Tuesday afternoon at Walker Funeral Home with Rev Ron Blix officiating. Shirley Larson was soloist and Zella Ridenour organist. Grandsons were casketbearers. Burial was in Memory cemetery at New Market.

Mrs Bashor is survived by five children, Dalphon Bashor of New Market, Donald Bashor of Corning, Mrs Richard (Dorlene) Graham of Nevada, Mrs Bernard (Helen) Herzberg of Creston and Charles Bashor of Clarinda.

There are 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Beadle, Octava Elizabeth Russell, born Maine 03 Feb 1842, died 01 Jan 1918 at home of her daughter, Mrs W.R. Dennison near Athelstan, Ia; married A.B. Beadle Mar 1881; 2 daus, Katie Dennison and Nellie Tuckson of Doniphan, Ne; 2 children by a former marriage - Susan Hoffman of Wyo and Elmer Russell of Mo; buried Athelstan cemetery; member of United Brethren Church and Methodist Church of Keystone, Ne. Sheridan, Mo Advance, Volume 31 #35 of 10 Jan 1918

Bowers, Jaretta Gail, daughter of Elza Bowers, born 26 Nov 1917, died 19 Dec 1917; obit in Athelstan Advance, Vol 31 #34, 03 Jan 1918

    From:  The Taylor County Herald
        March 8, 1934, page 7

             Joseph M. Barnes, son of George and Elizabeth
Barnes, was born in the state of Indiana in the year
of 1842 and departed this life at his home 8 miles
southeast of Bedford February 25, 1934 at the age of
92 years, 3 months and 15 days.
             At the age of five years, he moved with his
parents to the state of Iowa, settling near Iowa City
where he grew to manhood.  From there he moved to
Taylor County where he spent the remainder of his
life, having lived at the present home for fifty
years.
             In the year of 1877, on May 6, he was married to
Mary Tinder.  To this union 6 children were born of
which five are living, one son dying in infancy.
Those remaining to mourn his departure are five
children, two boys and three girls:  Charles A. Barnes
of Sheridan, Mo., Mrs. Loyal G. Burch of Blockton,
Iowa, Mrs. W.R. Ritter of Shoshone, Idaho, Guy L.
Barnes of Bedford, and Nellie Barnes at home.  He also
leaves one brother, Augustus Barnes of Smith Center,
Kansas, 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren with
many other relatives and a host of friends.
             Mr. Barnes was one of eleven children.  One
brother, Augustus Barnes of Smith Center, Kansas is
the only surviving member.  His wife, Mrs. Joseph
Barnes, proceeded him in death December 29, 1931.
             Mr. Barnes served two years during the Civil
War.

From Mark Cappello - markcappello@yahoo.com

Brazer, Grandma

OBITUARY, Clearfield, IA, 20 Aug 1914:  A sad accident (paper torn, piece
missing) Friday when Grandma Brazer, James Hinton's mother, was burned to
death.  She had lighted her pipe and the burning match set fire to some
paper on the floor near her.  In trying to put out the blaze, her clothes
were set on fire and before she could be rescued from the flames she was so
badly burned that she lived only about 24 hours.  Mr. Hinton had just left
the day before for a visit at Downing, Missouri.  A telegram was sent him
but before he could reach home his mother had passed away.  The funeral
services, conducted by Rev. Rhodes, were held at Oak Hill church Monday at
10:30 and the body was laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery.  Grandma Brazer
was in her 85th year.  Her sons, Will Hinton of Des Moines, and Geo. Hinton
of Bramer, MO were present at the funeral.  (Note spelling of surname is
incorrect)****

Thanks for volunteering!
Jan (Wilson) Ramos
ramosgang@att.net

Bartley, Sarah Ann Gilmore

Mrs. Sarah Bartley - Bedford Times Press August 26, 1954
Mrs. Sarah Ann Bartley, long time resident of the Bedford community
died at her home in Bedford August 18.
Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Friday
afternoon conducted by the Rev. Wilbur Travis of the Christian Church.
Burial was in the Fairview Cemetery.
Sarah Ann Gilmore, daughter of Daniel and Lucinda Wells Gilmore was
born on October 29, 1862, at Hazel Green, KY, and died at the age of
92 years nine months 18 days. The greater part of her life was spent in
and near Bedford. In the year 1878 she was married to Lafayette Bartley,
and to them four children were born. Her husband and daughter preceded
her in death.
When young in life she profess her faith in the savior and united
with the Christian Church. She leaves two sons, Emmet Bartley of Clarks, MO.,
Kelley Bartley of Nampa, ID, and one daughter, Mrs. George Stephens
of Bedford. Also one sister, Mrs. J. M. Little of Bedford. Nine grandchildren,
nineteen great grandchildren survive her.

Peggy Sue pwilson411@aol.com
HomePage: http://members.aol.com/PWilson411/indexe.html

Brown, Sylvia Grove Reed Fordyce
June 24, 1855 -- July 27, 1932
 

Obituary

Sylvia Grove Brown, daughter of Jacob and
Clarissa Kennedy Reed, was born in Taylor
county, Iowa, June 24, 1855, and passed away
at the home of her son, Corbly Fordyce, July
27, 1932 at the age of 77 years, 1 month and
3 days.

She was one of the first white children born in
this county.

She was married to Leroy Fordyce in 1871. To
this union was born three children -- Arabella,
who died in infancy; Corbly V., of Blockton and
Opha Bishop, of Weldona, Colorado.

The husband and father died in 1876.

She was united in marriage to Will Brown in 1881
and to this marriage was born three children --
Wade Brown, of Aurelia; Clara Ostrander, of
Redding, and Jake Brown, of Ideal, South Dakota.

Mr. Brown died in 1888.

Besides her children she leaves to mourn her
departure, one sister, Icie Jenkins of Athelstan, and
two brothers, Miles A. Reed of Monte Vista,
Colorado, and George B. Reed of Blockton. Also
15 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Mrs. Brown was converted at an early age and
joined the Methodist church.  She lived a long and
active life and knew the trials and hardships of
pioneer life.  Never too busy to stop her own work
and help other [sic] when in need, she lived a
Christian life and was at her post of duty as long as
her health and strength would permit.

Funeral services were held at the Methodist church
Friday afternoon at 2:30 conducted by Rev. W.
Warrior, and interment was made in the Platteville
cemetary.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted by
Tracy St Claire
aaf@ais.net
 

Bartlett, Paul H., Jr., 72, passed away on April 1, 2006 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. A memorial service was held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, 2006 at Central Presbyterian church. Visitation was held Friday, April 7, 2006 at McLaren's Chapel at Resthaven Cemetery. Interment was held at Resthaven cemetery [Des Moines, Iowa].

Paul was born in Des Moines on April 26, 1933, the son of Paul H. Barlett and Ethel Straight Bartlett. He spent his childhood days in Bedford, Iowa, where his father owned the Gambles Hardware store. He graduated from Bedford High school in 1951, and enrolled at the state University of Iowa in Iowa City, where he graduated with a Commerce degree in 1955. While at SUI, he was President of the Union
Board, and was an active member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. In addition, he was a United Air force ROTC graduate, having served notably as Cadet Commander. Upon receiving his Air Force Commission, he was selected for undergraduate Pilot Training, which he completed at Vance Air Force base, Arizona, he received his first assignment to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, where he flew the KC-97G Refueler. At Whiteman, he married the former Katherine Ann Holmes (Kitty) of Waterloo, IA.

His civilian employment began in 1959, with American Can company in Sedalia, Missouri. He accepted a transfer to New Orleans followed by a military transfer from the active force into the USAF Reserve. He decided to end his flying career in 1965, when he transferred to Waterloo, Iowa with American Can. In 1968, he began an investment career with the former Dain, Kalman, and Quail, Inc.; with the exception of a three-year employment with Kirtpatrick, Pettis Co., Paul served Dain both in Waterloo (1968-73) and
Des Moines (1973-90, 1993-99). He retired as a senior Vice President in the Fixed Income/Institutional Department at Dain Rauscher.

Paul was very active in the civic affairs of our community. He was a dedicated member of the Downtown
Rotary Club, where he was the President (90-91) and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a President of Youth Homes of Mid America, where he recently ended his service as President of the Foundation Board of Trustees. He held in high regard his membership in the Des Moines chapter of the Queit Birdmen
Pilots Association. In addition, he was on the Junior League advisory board and a member of the Air Force Association. He was a lifelong fan of University of Iowa Athletics, a Life member of the U of I Alumni Association and the Presidents Club.

Among his hobbies, he enjoyed hunting, sailing, fishing and playing pitch with Kitty. He indeed was quite fond of his contemporaries in his regular coffee group.

Paul is survived by his dear wife of 48 years, Kitty; his three children, James H. Bartlett, M.D. (Kelly), Daniel P. Bartlett, D.D.S., both of Des Moines, and Pamela Robison (John) of Northbrook, Illinois; and six grandchildren; Charlie, Carolyn and John Bartlett; Samantha, Kate and Cyndi Robison. His brother, Phil B. Bartlett, survives him in Narragansett, Rhode Island.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions maybe sent to the Youth Homes of Mid America in Johnston.

Beal, Dorothy Ruth Boyer - Funeral services for Dorothy Ruth Beal of Portland, Oregon, were held
Monday, Feb. 15, 2006, at Mt. Scott Funeral Home in Portland. Dorothy, a resident of Firwood Garden Residential Facility died at home Feb. 10, at age 90.

Dorothy Boyer was born Feb. 26, 1915, in Bedford, Iowa, to George G. and Lottie Dowell Boyer. She grew up n Taylor County where she graduated from Bedford High School in 1933. She had been a member of the Bedford Christian Church. In 1933, Dorothy was married to Edwin J. Beal of Bedford. To this loving union, three children, Cora (Cokey), Judy and Eddie were born. Dorothy and Ed farmed together for many years in Taylor County, where Dorothy always had a big garden.

When their son, Eddie was 7, he was riding his bicycle home from rural school on a country road, when he was hit by a truck, and was in a coma for several months and suffered brain damage. In order to get better treatment for him, the family sold everything except a few personal belongings, and in 1955 moved to Oregon. Ed and Dorothy lovingly cared for their invalid son in their own home until he was 21 when he moved to Good Shepherd Communities Care Facility in Portland.

Dorothy had a life long interest in quilting and made more than 600 quilts, plus another 200 table runners, wall hangings and placemats. Her great-aunt taught her to sew when she was six. She practiced by hand stitching around the edges of handkerchiefs and tea towels. Growing up in Bedford, she made her own clothes, and later clothes for her children. She made her first baby quilt for her first child, Cora, and later made a quilt for her bed, which Cokey still uses as a tablecloth. A quilted wall hanging Dorothy designed and called "The Christmas Star" was entered in the Oregon Alliance of Senior and Health Services" ageless art contest last year. Of the more than 130 entries, Dorothy received the Judges Choice purple ribbon. Her wall hanging was later displayed at the Oregon State Capitol Building in Salem. Until his death in October 2003 Dorothy and husband, Ed, could be found quietly sitting on the couch together-she quilting and he making macrame‚ hangings or counted cross-stitch pictures. Ed often helped his wife with her quilting projects, including candle-wicking designs on quilts, one of which was on Dorothy's bed in the care facility.
Left to cherish Dorothy's memory are her daughters, Cora Jones, and husband, Bud of Portland and Judy Skipton, Portland; son, Edwin L. Beal of Good Shepherd Communities, Portland; five grandchildren; 13
great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents; brothers, Joe Boyer, Bedford, Larry Boyer and Delmar Boyer, both of Waterloo, IA; and half-sister, Marjorie Overton, Des Moines, IA. Interment was at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, Portland, with Mt Scott Funeral Home officiating. Memorials may be sent in
Dorothy's name to Good Shepherd Communities, 831 SW 17th, Portland, OR. 97205.

Brooks, Orvin Doris Lamb, 79 of Gravity, Iowa, was born June 20, 1926 at Omaha, Nebraska, to Orie Ode and Edith Coral (Starr) Lamb. Thursday, May 18, 2006 at the age of 79 Doris passed away at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha [Nebraska].

Doris was a reserved woman and liked to blend into the crowd until she got to know you and then shared her thoughts and beliefs. She was not shy about sharing the truth which she would do with love and showed no judgments or condemnations. She was a woman who gave her love unconditionally. She loved the Lord and her neighbors as herself.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, husband Darrl Clyde Brooks, seven brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her children: James Brooks of Gravity, Ia, and John Brooks and wife Teri of Omaha, Ne; step-children Connie McVey and husband Chris of Omaha, Ne, and Scott Brooks and wife Diane of Neola, Ia; brother Louis Lamb of Omaha; sisters Nancy Mach and husband Leo of Omaha and Lorraine Rookstool and husband Joe of Omaha; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 22, 2006 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, with Rev. Bob Thompson officiating. Burial was at Gravity Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. A memorial fund is being established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Bedford was in charge of arrangements.

Beemer, Virgil "Joe" - Funeral services for Virgil "Joe" Beemer, age 84 of
Bedford, who died Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at
Bedford Nursing & Rehab were held Monday, January 28,
2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Interment
was held in the Conway Cemetery. Memorials can be
directed to Hospice of Central Iowa or the Bedford
Ambulance Service. Memories can be shared with the
family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com
under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the
Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Virgil (Joe) Bryan Beemer, 84, passed away January 23,
2008 at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center in Bedford,
Iowa. Virgil the son of Sim and Mary Beemer was born
August 3, 1923 in Sumner, Missouri. The family lived
on Hog Ridge Road in Sumner until 1929 when they
moved to a farm south of Conway, Iowa. When Grandpa
Simeon Beemer saw his first born grandson he said "Ain't
he a Joe Dandy". Hence the nickname Joe.

Virgil started school in a country school house southwest of
Conway. Being a true BOY he would rather hide in the
corn field until time to go home instead of learning his
3R's. His schooling came to a halt in the 7th grade when
he started farming with his Dad to help support the family
during the Depression.

Sixty-four and a half years ago Virgil tied the knot with
Vivian Lou Longfellow on August 30, 1943 in Maryville,
Missouri. To this union five children were born; Bryan
Lou, Donna, Robert (Bob), Paul and Terry.

Virgil farmed with his Dad and brothers for several years
and also raised champion Tamworth hogs. After his Dad
retired, Virgil and Vivian worked side by side in the
farming operation with the help of their sons until 1993
when his health forced retirement.

Some of the more trying times included the 1971 Conway
tornado which destroyed their home and the years that sons
Bob and Paul were in Viet Nam. Special times included
the 50th and 60th wedding anniversaries, his birthday
parties with homemade ice cream, extended family
gatherings, telling stories to the grandkids and later the
great-grandchildren crawling upon his lap.

Virgil came from a very large family which has continued
to remain very close over the years. Sharing in those times
meant so much to him.

Virgil was good natured, joking around with the nurses up
until the end. He will always hold a special place in the
hearts of his family and friends.

Virgil is survived by his wife, Vivian of the home;
daughter, Donna (Bob) Walston, Bedford, Iowa; son, Bob
(Sue) Beemer, Laramie, Wyoming; son, Paul (Susan)
Beemer, Maryville, Missouri; son, Terry (Janet) Beemer,
Clarinda, Iowa; grandchildren: Dan Walston, Bedford,
Iowa, Tammy Davison, Bedford, Iowa, Scott Walston,
Atlantic, Iowa, Kyla (Steve) Montoya, Laramie, Wyoming,
Deb (James) Bonde, Blockton, Iowa, Jim (Johanna)
Beemer, Maryville, Missouri, Jesse Beemer and Mandy,
Gravity, Iowa, Kalli Beemer, Clarinda, Iowa, Rick (Susan)
Hower, Mt. Ayr, Iowa and eighteen great-grandchildren;
siblings, Betty (Wig) Boyer, Clearfield, Iowa, Joyce
(Ralph) Ridnour, Walnut, Iowa, Dean (Betty Jean) Beemer,
Cody, Wyoming, Lu Schofield, Kent, Iowa, Alice (Goubie)
Miller, Allendale, Missouri, Jerry (Jean) Beemer, Lenox,
Iowa, Sally (Gary) Hensley, Corning, Iowa, Tim (Linda)
Beemer, Bedford, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Beverly (Buzzy)
Beemer, Cody, Wyoming, Zonette Beemer, Conway,
Iowa and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Sim and Mary Beemer;
infant son, Bryan Lou; infant grandson, Benjamin Beemer;
sister, Beth Beemer; brothers, Bryce (Spike) Beemer and
Dale Beemer and brothers-in-law, Lloyd Schofield and
Lyle Miller.

Beemer, Dale W. - Funeral services for Dale W. Beemer, age 76 of Conway,
who died Tuesday, June 26, 2007, in Des Moines, Iowa
were held Saturday, June 30, 2007, at 9:30 a.m. at the New
Life Missionary Church in Bedford. Interment with
military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American
Legion Post No. 164 were held at the conclusion of the
service at the church. Cremation followed the services with
a private family interment of ashes at the Conway
Cemetery on Sunday. In lieu of flowers, the family
strongly suggests memorials be directed to the Sharpsburg
Presbyterian Church. Memories can be shared with the
family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com
under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the
Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Balog, June, 62, of Villisca, IA, died Friday morning, April 1, 2005, at her home in Villisca following a short illness. She was born on June 10, 1942, in Villisca at the Lewis Nursing Home/Hospital, along with her twin sister on their father's birthday. June was the daughter of Glenn and Eula (Moritz) Guss.

She attended Villisca High School, graduating with the class of 1959. After sometime in Des Moines, IA June went to Omaha to work for Northwestern Bell.

On August 7, 1960, June married Joseph Balog at the United Methodist Church in Villisca, IA. Three children were born to this union; Juneanne, Joey and Janell. June enjoyed her earlier years raising her children in Odessa, TX After the children were grown she went to work at Cloth World, adding to her love of sewing, quilting and crafts.

In 1992, June moved back to Villisca, IA where she cherished being close to her mother and various siblings. Helping to raise two granddaughters and later helping to raise another granddaughter. She was employed throughout this time at Burcliff, Sunbest Papetties and had worked the last 8 years at Traco in Red Oak. Her favorite activities were baking, sewing, bowling, collecting owls, visiting over coffee and the Casino life and spending time with family and friends. June attended church at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca.

She is survived by her children: Juneanne McIntosh of Odessa, TX, Joey Balog and wife Sveta of Hobbs, NM and Janell Auxier of Villisca, IA. Grandchildren; Candiz Jo Boudreau of Odessa, TX, Elizabeth McIntosh of San Marcus, TX, Courtney Auxier of Villisca, and Anastasia Balog of Hobbs, New Mexico. Brothers and sisters: Ronald Guss and wife Johan of New Market, VA, Merwin Guss and wife Wanda of Winterhaven, FL, Roma Ingersoll of Villisca, IA, Shirley Fidler and husband Jird of Villisca, IA, Janet Echternach of Council Bluffs, IA, Wayne Guss and wife Wendy of Sandy, Utah, Sandra Kinser and husband Gail of Villisca, IA and Joan Perdue of Villisca, IA. Also many nieces, nephews relatives and friends.

June was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 5, 2005, at the Wolfe Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Guss, IA. Visitation will be held Monday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Wolfe Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to the Montgomery County Relay for Life.

Blake, Helen Louise Spring - Funeral Services for Helen Blake, age 65 of Gravity who died Thursday, August 11, 2005 Council Bluffs were held Monday, August 15, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in
Bedford.  Interment was held in the Walnut Grove Cemetery in Corning.  Memorials can be given in Helen's name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Blake family on our web page, www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
 
Helen Louise (Spring) Blake was born in rural Taylor County, Iowa at the family home on November 15, 1939.  She was the daughter of Earnest Spring and Dorothy (McLean) Spring.  She grew up in the Corning area, graduating from the Corning High School.  She was united in marriage to Adrian Leroy Blake of
Bedford and they made their home in Gravity, Iowa living there since 1962. 

Helen was a devoted wife and mother.  She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and loved being able to babysit them as often as she could.  She enjoyed sitting outside with her pets and walking through Gravity and visiting with her neighbors along the way.  She also enjoyed working with flowers, watching hummingbirds, and collecting wind chimes.

Left to cherish Helen's memory are her three children Adriana Robey of Bedford; Jerry Blake and wife Stacey; and Laura Ogle and husband William of Gravity; eight grandchildren Joshua Thompson, Ashley Thompson and fianc'e George Anderson of Atlantic; Andrea Sheley and husband Jesse of Bedford; Jeremy and Aaron Blake; and Rebecka, Sara and Amanda Ogle of Gravity; three great-grandchildren, Ethan and Terrance Sheley of Bedford; and Adrian Michael Thompson of Atlantic; a brother Harold Spring and wife Linda of Sharpsburg; three brothers-in-law Gilbert Blake and wife Lois of Gravity; Donnie Blake of Corning and Eddie Blake of Lenox; a sister-in-law Juddie Squires and husband Kenny of Albia; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
 
Preceding Helen in death are her parents Earnest and Dorothy Spring; her husband Adrian in May of 2002; and two infant daughters, Anna and Tammy.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Helen's passing.

Bolinger, Rosalee McKay was born August 23, 1932, in Taylor County, Iowa, to William Lester and Netha Akers McKay. Rose married Weldon Glenn Bolinger, August 13, 1950, in Clearfield, Iowa. To this union were born five children, David Allen, Arnold Edwin, Tina Marie, Glen Darrell, and Connie Sue. Weldon preceded her in death on May 4, 1991. Rose worked for many years at C.R. Anthony's, Ruth's Steak House, and The Cap Factory in Mount Ayr, while raising her family. She then worked in the food service area. She later married Billy Mac Bailey on November 19, 1995 in Allendale, Missouri. She continued to work even after she retired in local restaurants making dinner rolls and pies. She served food at the Clarinda Meal Site and did demos in the local grocery store until August of 2004, at which time her illness took over. She was a longtime member of the United Presbyterian Church and American Legion Women's Auxiliary Post 172 in Mount Ayr, Iowa. She was an avid bowler and enjoyed league bowling most of her life. She also loved to do crocheting, plastic canvas needlepoint, decorating sweatshirts and going to the Country Music Jam Sessions. In her later years, she loved life on the farm and participating with her ponies in local parades and celebrations. Rose passed away on March 8, 2005 at the Kavanagh Hospice House in Des Moines, Iowa. Preceding her in death were her parents, Lester and Netha McKay, her husband, Weldon Bolinger, a son, Glen Bolinger, and step-grandchildren, Chad Bailey and Bailey Daniels.
She was survived by her husband, Billy Bailey, of Coin, Iowa; her children, David (Beverly) Bolinger of Davenport, Iowa; Arnold Bolinger of Lutz, Florida; Tina (Jerry) Allen of Tingley, Iowa; Connie Bolinger of Des Moines, Iowa; Special daughter, Carmina Carrera of Des Moines, Iowa; Gerry (Donna) Bailey of Colo, Iowa; Kenneth Bailey of Belton, Missouri; Deb Daniels of Seward, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren. Rose's surviving brothers and sisters are: Doras (Mary) McKay, of Corning, Iowa; Shirley (Glen) Wilmeth, of Creston, Iowa; Roland (Rochelle) McKay, of Fort Dodge, Iowa; Leota Collins, of Tingley, Iowa. She was also survived by two brother-in-laws; Kenneth (Sherry) Bolinger of Clearfield, Iowa and Loren (Dorothy) Bolinger of Blockton, Iowa and one sister-in-law; Erma Bolinger of Plattsburg, Missouri. Additionally, she is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial services were held Saturday, March 12, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at Wilson-Watson & Armstrong F.H. in Mount Ayr, Iowa with Rev. Victor Bollinger officiating. She was laid to rest at Rose Hill Cemetery in Mount Ayr, Iowa.

Boyer, Joe - Funeral services for Joe Boyer, age 91 of Bedford, who died Sunday, January 9, 2005 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda were held Thursday, January 13, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford with Pastor Randy Allman officiating. Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Joe's name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Joseph William Boyer was born May 10, 1913, at a farmhouse near La Monte, Missouri, the son of George Gilbert Boyer and Lottie Gladys Dowell Boyer. Joe grew up mostly in the Bedford area, except for three years he spent living in Alberta, Canada where his grandfather taught rural school. Joe's father died when he was only nine years old and this resulted in he and his siblings being split up. His great aunt, Lois Houk raised him as if he was her own. She also raised three of her own children in addition to her grandson, Virgil Williams. Virgil and his wife Betsy now live in Auburn, California.
Joe joined the CCC in 1933 and was discharged in 1937. He was in the National Guard and enlisted in the United States Army in 1940. He was with the 128th Field Artillery as a Private First Class. During this period, Joe traveled all over the United States and had many experiences which he later loved to talk about. He received an honorable discharge in 1943, as his help was needed to maintain the family farm. From 1943 to 1949, he farmed together with his Aunt Lois. The farm was located 6 1/2 miles southeast of Bedford. While doing a little shopping at the local Hy-Vee, he met Edna Lucille Mitchell and on February 20, 1949, they were united in marriage at the Christian Church Parsonage in Bedford. They were blessed with two daughters, Linda and Sharon, and enjoyed raising their family on the farm. In 1983, they moved into Bedford, selling the family farm in 2000.
Joe had a wide variety of hobbies. He traveled all over the Midwest competing in checker tournaments and also loved to tinker with his three Model T's. He enjoyed driving them in parades, and always looked forward to the 4th of July Parade in Bedford each year. Joe has won over 100 plaques and trophies over the years. He also enjoyed collecting coins, stamps, license plates, marbles, watches and knifes. He attended many auctions and sales and brought home more 'junk' as his wife Edna would say! He enjoyed country music, WWF/WWE Wrestling and kept up on all world affairs and current events, including politics.
Joe was a member of the Christian Church in Bedford where he had served as a Deacon for many years. He was a member of the John F. Hardin American Legion Post #164.
He and Edna owned a camper and together they enjoyed traveling around the Midwest to checker tournaments and visiting friends. In recent years, Joe and Edna enjoyed watching the Atlanta Braves on TV. They also spent many tedious hours working with walnuts to prepare for sale. When Edna was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2000, Joe continued to be a loving husband and became a full-time caregiver for several difficult years. Edna passed away on June 7th, 2004. Joe and his daughters became very close during the last ten years when health problems arose. A lot of quality time was spent together, which has created precious memories for Linda and Sharon. He had an amazing memory for details of his life and loved to tell stories from his past.
Joe is survived by his two loving daughters, Linda Sue Covington and husband Rex of Shambaugh; and Sharon Kay Cahill and husband Bruce of Clarinda; a sister, Dorothy Beal of Portland, Oregon; five grandchildren, Lori Seward of St. Joseph, Missouri; Glenn Seward of St. Joseph, Missouri; Michelle Hanshaw of Daytona Beach, Florida; Jason Simmons of Grimes, Iowa; and Erica Carico of New Virginia, Iowa; seven great-grandchildren; along with a host of other relatives and friends.
Preceding Joe in death were his parents, George Boyer and Lottie Boyer Overton; his loving wife Edna; two brothers, Delmer and Larry Boyer; and a half-sister, Marjorie Overton.
May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Joe's passing

Boyer, Willis Oliver, was born October 13, 1918, the third of four children born to Myrtle and Clarence Boyer. He was born at home in Lenox, Iowa; in a house that still exists today. He acquired then nickname "Red" early in life due to the color of his hair. He often said that his hair took on a red hue when as an infant he slept next to the wood burning stove during that winter of 1918-1919 when the Asian flu epidemic cost millions of people worldwide their lives. Red left Lenox at age ten, moving some 20 miles away to Creston, Iowa, but his favorite memories were of spending childhood play time with Kenny and Carl Eberle in Lenox and with cousins Teddy, Bill and Wigg at Uncle Jim's farm in Sharpsburg, Iowa.

Willis met his future wife Phyllis while living in Creston; she was one of his younger sister Mavis's friends. Willis recorded in a diary that he kept at the time that she was "one of the swellest kids I have ever seen". They began going together July 17, 1935 and secretly married December 21, 1936, just before Phyllis moved to California with her mother. After making their marriage known to family, they were reunited and soon moved to California together. They settled in Monrovia where they purchased the little house on Olive Street in February of 1939. They lived there until they moved that house to the back of the lot where it still stands and built their current home in 1957.

Daughter Dee Anne was born in 1944 while Red was serving in the Army Air Corps. Daughter Gay Lynne was born n 1947.

Red retired from Pacific Bell Telephone as a communications engineer in May of 1981 having worked for the company for 39 years. Red loved to travel and from 1958 when he bought his first travel trailer, he treated his family to wonderful travel experiences every summer. After the girls were away from home, he and Phyllis traveled extensively, often with friends throughout the United States and later with daughters and sons-in-law to a variety of foreign destinations.

In 1986 Willis and Phyllis purchased half interest in an 80 acre farm in Iowa, nears his Uncle Jim's old farm that has now been in the Boyer family name for nearly 100 years. Until Phyllis's illness, the two of them would spend nearly four months of every year on their farm in Sharpsburg always welcoming family and friend from California.

Willis is survived by his daughter Gay Lynne, sons-in-law Al Kennedy and Terry Cheraz, by grandchildren Steve and Jeff Cheraz, Julie Mason, Navid Motahari and Lori Wiles, and by great grandchildren Jessica Cheraz, Kourtney and Kyle Mason, Joshua and Noah Wiles, and Ruby and Tanner Cheraz. His wife Phyllis and daughter Dee Anne were waiting to welcome him home with Lord, having preceded him in death.

Bradley, Larry - Memorial graveside services for Larry Bradley, age 95, of Lenox, who died Thursday, September 14, 2006 at the Lenox Care Center were held Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Calvary Cemetery in Creston.  Memorials can be given in Larry's name. Memories can be shared with the Bradley family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.  

Lawrence Thurman Bradley was born December 15, 1910, in Creston, Iowa the son of Emmet Bradley and Bertha (Krueger) Bradley.  He grew up attending rural Union County Schools.  He then began farming and was also a chauffer in the Omaha area prior to his marriage. 

On November 19, 1939, he was united in marriage to Lois Blakesley in Lenox, Iowa at the Christian Church Parsonage.  After their marriage, Larry began working as a mechanic for the International Harvester Implement Dealership in Lenox.  This is a position he would hold for the next 42 years.  After his retirement from the implement dealership, he began his second career as `caretaker' of Wilson Lake, a position he would hold for the next eight years.  Larry was a member of the Clearfield Lion's Club for over 30 years; a charter member of the Lenox Stock and Saddle Club and a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox.  He loved to go fishing, hunting and camping.  Every summer he looked forward to driving the shuttle buses for the Lion's Club at the Iowa State Fair.  Together he and Lois traveled throughout the United States and even went as far as Canada one year!  He was also a past-member of the Creston Elks Club and the Creston Country Club at Summit Lake. 

Left to cherish Larry's memory are his loving wife Lois Bradley of Lenox; three children, Carol McFee of Rosalie, Nebraska; Larry Bradley, Jr., of Creston; and Edwin Bradley and wife Linda of Lewistown, Montana; a brother, Bernard Bradley and wife Hazel of Jeffers, Minnesota; three sisters, Ruth, Virginia and Teresa all of the Seattle, Washington area; five grandchildren, Joann, Jarita, Robbie, Gary and Toni; six great-grandchildren, Ashley, Jacob, Bradley, Sara, Julie and Mason. 

Preceding Larry in death were his parents Emmet and Bertha Bradley; a son John in 1941 at infancy; two brothers, Robert and Felix; and a sister Lucille. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Larry's passing.

Barker, Edith - Funeral Services for Edith Barker 89, of Corning, Iowa died Tuesday May 9, 2006 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital, Corning IA, were held Friday, 11:00 a.m. May 12, 2006 at Corning United Methodist Church. Eastern Star Rites by Emblem Chapter #64, Order of Eastern Star, Corning, with burial at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Open visitation was held Friday at the church. Memorials may be given in Edith's name to United Methodist Church, Corning, Iowa.
        On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.
        Edith the daughter of Leslie George Slack and Vivian Greenway was born May 19, 1916 on a farm east of Gravity, Iowa, and graduated from Gravity, Iowa High School ,Class of 1934.  Edith married Kenneth Wilbur Barker August 7, 1942 in Papillion, Nebraska. To this union one son Kennard (Kim) Barker was born.
        Edith was a school teacher, taught country school at Marshal #4, east of Gravity for several years. She was a U.S. Postal service Employee for 20 years, retiring in 1972.
        Edith joined the Gravity Methodist Church on December 22, 1929 and was a member until its closing. Member of the Corning United Methodist Church and was very active in the United Methodist Women and quilted at the church for many years. In 1987, Edith became a 50 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star having joined in 1937; she served as Worthy Matron in 1943. Member of the American Legion Auxiliary, served as President for a term.
        Survivors include her son: Kennard (Kim) Barker, Carroll, Iowa. Three Grandchildren: Sarah Barker, St. Charles, IA; Clinton Barker, Corning, Iowa; Matt Barker, Carroll, IA, special friend: Nancy Morris, Prescott, IA: several cousins and other relatives.
        Proceeded in death by her Parents, husband Kenneth, in November 1983, sister-in-law, Mildred Secord, and brother-in- law, Gene Secord.

Bissell, Thelda - Funeral services for Theda Bissell, age 88, of Lenox, who died Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at Vintage Park Apartments in Lenox were held Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox.  Interment was held at the Summit Cemetery. 

Memorials can be given in Theda's name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox. 

Theda Genevive Bissell was born May 31, 1918, on a farm south of Bridgewater, Iowa the daughter of Garner and Jane (Guthrie) Thompson. 

On June 1, 1935, she was united in marriage to Raymond Bissell in Maryville, Missouri.  Two children were born to bless this union, Richard and Nancy. 

Theda and Raymond were farmers at heart.  After the death of Theda's brother, William Thompson who was killed in Normandy, France in 1944, they moved to the home farm east of Prescott, living there for fifty-three years.  In 1997, they sold the farm and moved to Creston.  Theda moved to Vintage Apartments in Lenox in 2005 to be closer to her family.  She was always a busy person, helping out on the farm, doing chores, mowing the lawn to perfection!  Theda enjoyed bowling in her spare time, a sport she enjoyed for over thirty years.  Her main pride and joy was getting her hair fixed each week.  If she ever needed help she would call her kids or grandchildren to help, and they better not be late getting there! 

She was a member of the Christian Church in Prescott and the William Thompson American Legion and Auxiliary in Bridgewater, which was named after her brother. Left to cherish Theda's memory are her son Richard Bissell and wife Connie of Elkhart, Iowa; a daughter, Nancy Freshour of Lenox; grandchildren Jacqi Reed and husband Stephen; Kyle Freshour and wife Kelly; Kevin Freshour and wife Bev; Nicolee Rasmussen and husband Brad; Noelle Carroll and husband Steve; great-grandchildren Troy Reed and wife Chris; Crystal Shawler and husband Todd; Dawn Pullen and husband Frank; Kisha Wagoner and husband Zackery; Taylor Rasmussen; Sidney Carroll; Tori Carroll; Gary Lucas and wife Missy; and Kurtis Lucas and Jenny; great-great-grandchildren Evan and Xander Pullen; Cael Wagoner, Taylor Lucas, C.J. Lucas, and Patrick Harden. 

Preceding Theda in death were her parents, her husband Raymond in 1999; a brother William and a son-in-law, Clifford Freshour. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Theda's passing.

Beckett, Leoma - Memorial services for Leoma Beckett will be held Saturday, May 7, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Friends are invited to meet the family at the cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Bailie, Bernice "Lenore", age 96, formerly of Lenox, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, January 19, 2005 in Cassville, Missouri.
She was born July 11, 1908 in Lenox, Iowa, the daughter of Edgar Clyde and Ethel (Beadel) Dunbar. On April 29, 1939 in Savanah, Missouri, she was united in marriage to LeRoy Eugene Bailie, who preceded her in death on December 27, 1970. She was also preceded in death by her parents, four sisters and four brothers.
She was survived by one son, Richard Bailie and his wife, Martha of Ft. Dodge, Iowa; three daughters: Marilyn Rutherford and her husband David of West Des Moines, Iowa, Judy Kearney and her husband, Thomas of Omaha, Nebraska and Janet Bose of Cassvllle, Missouri; three granddaughters: LaChelle, Danielle and Julie; one great granddaughter, Ravin; numerous nieces; nephews, great nieces and nephews; great-great nieces and nephews; and her childhood schoolmate and best friend for over eighty years, Dorothy Stream.
Lenore received her education in Lenox, Iowa, where she graduated from high school. She taught school in Iowa in a one room schoolhouse before she married and began raising her family. She loved being with her family, playing card games, reading, working crossword puzzles and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. She was an active member of the Lenox First Christian Church, and in her later years appreciated visits from her ministers.
Graveside services were held Monday, January 24, 2005 in the Old Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa, under direction of Williamson Funeral Home, Cassville, Missouri, and Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Clarinda, Iowa.. Dr. Randy Ehrhardt with West Des Moines Christian Church, West Des Moines, Iowa, conducted the services.
Contributions may be made to The Lenox Library Children's Department, for publishing books, or the Lenox First Christian Church.

Bailey, Opal Maude - Funeral services for Opal Maude Bailey were held Thursday, Nov. 10, 2005 at the United Methodist Church in Clearfield, Iowa. Rev. Gerry Kahler officiated. Burial was at Clearfield
Cemetery, Clearfield, Iowa.

Opal M. Bailey was born August 30, 1907 to Joseph M. and Laura Belle (Stephens) Link in Benton Township, Ringgold County, Iowa. She departed this life at the Clearview Home in Clearfield on November 7, 2005 at the age of 98 years, two months, and eight days.

Opal graduated from the Maloy High School, then attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Rapids and graduated from Thompson Beauty School in Des Moines.

She and Charles C. Linkvis were married in 1928, three daughters, Evelyn, Bernadine, and Charlene, along with two sons, Gene and Robert, were born to this union. In 1941 she married Cecil E. Bailey and a son, Joe, was born.

Opal spent her early years teaching. After the death of her first husband, she attended Thompson Beauty School and then spent the next 22 years in this profession. She was a member of the Clearfield United Methodist Church and the Clearfield Legion Auxiliary.

Preceding her in death were her parents, husband, a brother, and one grandchild.

Survivors include daughters, Evelyn (Don) Dowell of Waukee, Iowa, Bernadine (Joe) Sobotka, Diagonal, Iowa, son Gene (Marlyne) Linkvis of Sioux City, Iowa, daughter Charlene Brott of Clearfield, Iowa, sons Robert (Nelda) Linkvis of Kingman, Az. And Larry Joe (Bonnie) Bailey of Omaha, Ne.; 17 grandchildren; one nephew; several cousins; other relatives and friends.

Burgmaier, Mary Smith Funeral services for Mary (Smith) Burgmaier, age 89, of the
Bedford / Lenox area, who died Friday, February 15, 2008 at
the Clearview Home in Clearfield, where she had been a
resident since December of 2004. Services were held
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 10 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral
Home in Lenox. Interment was held at the North Fairview
Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be given in Mary's name.
Memories can be shared with the family on our website at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of
Lenox.

Although Mary will be greatly missed,
her love and inspiration will live on through her family.

Bucher, Kendall Kalyn - Private family graveside services for Kendall
Kalyn Bucher the still-born daughter of Nathan
and Pam (Haidsiak) Bucher of Bedford were held
Monday, February 18, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at the
Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be
directed to the family. Memories can be shared
with the family on our website at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie
Funeral Home of Bedford.

Kendall Kalyn Bucher, the still-born daughter of
Nathan Bucher and Pam (Haidsiak) Bucher was
born into the loving arms of her parents at 7:35
a.m. on February 16, 2008, at Saint Luke's
Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. She weighed 1
pound 3.4 ounces and was 12 inches long, with
dark hair.

Left to cherish Kendall's memory are her loving
parents, Nathan and Pam Bucher and big sister,
Zoe Bucher, all of Bedford; maternal grandparents,
Robert Lynn and Carole Haidsiak of Bedford;
paternal grandparents, Dayle and Patricia Bucher
of Bedford; several aunts and uncles, Cara and
Mark Hollingworth of Urbandale, Iowa; Jenny and
Michael Ware of Baxter, Iowa; Dale and Lorna
Bucher and their children Logan and Jadyn; Jason
Bucher and Shawn Bucher, all of Bedford;
maternal great-grandparents, Wayne and Coryl
Pace and Lois Haidsiak, all of Bedford; and
paternal great-grandparents, Virgil and Elsie Gobel
of Browning, Illinois.

Preceding Kendall in death is her cousin, Cora
Bucher; great-grandfather, Max Alvin Haidsiak;
great aunt, Barb Gordon; great-grandparents, Allen
and Nelda Bucher; two great uncles, David Gobel
and Art Bucher; and a great aunt, Maxine Cox.

Kendall's memory will be cherished by her entire
family.

Briggs, Dorothy Savage, passed away unexpectedly Sunday,
January 20, 2008 at Grape Community Hospital, Hamburg, IA.
Dorothy Lucille (Savage) Briggs was born at home in
Bedford, IA on April 10, 1935, the daughter of Pearly and Lula
(Cooksey) Savage. Dorothy joined two sisters and one brother:
Carmelita Nelson, of Farragut, IA, Darlene Millburn of Fremont,
NE; and Marvin Savage of Shenandoah, IA. Dorothy attended
Bedford Community School and later earned a GED and
associates degree in accounting and bookkeeping from Iowa
Western Community college in 1983. Dorothy was united in
marriage to Franklin Delano Briggs on Oct 25, 1952 at Bedford,
IA.

Byrns, Dorothy Louise was born January 31, 1928 in Taylor County, Iowa between
Bedford and New Market, to Alvin Elbert and Florence Vera (Sleep) Maxwell.
Dorothy passed away Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at Creighton Medical
Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
Dorothy graduated Bedford High School in 1945 and received teacher's training
in Normal School. She taught rural school in Taylor and Page counties. She was
married September 13, 1947 at Bentonville, Arkansas to Ottis Byrns. They lived
in Ankeny, Iowa where Dorothy worked in health care facilities. After Ottis
retired the couple moved to Clarinda where Dorothy worked at Goldenrod
Manor until retiring.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Margaret Clymens and her
husband Carl.
Dorothy is survived by her husband, Ottis of Clarinda; daughter, Sharon Byrns
of Clarinda; brother, Don Maxwell and wife Evelyn of Clarinda; brother-in-law
Wilbur Byrns and wife Betty of Grant City, Missouri; sisters-in-law Leona
Stephenson of Bedford, Iowa and Marilyn Loghry and husband Robert of Sloan,
Iowa; and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday, November 24, 2007 at Eickemeyer Funeral
Chapel, Clarinda, with Rev. Dan Weibesiek officiating. Interment was at
Athelstan Cemetery, Athelstan, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to family choice.
Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda was in charge of arrangements.

Burks, Edward E. "Gene," age 81, of Chandler, AZ passed
away on July 4th 2007 at Friendship Village Hospice.

Inurnment and graveside services will take place at
Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa on August 18 at 11:00
AM.

Brown, Harry Dean - Funeral services for Harry Dean Brown, age 79, formerly
of Gravity, died Saturday, June 23, 2007 at Pine View
Manor in Stanberry, Missouri, will be held Saturday, June
30, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in
Bedford, Iowa. Visitation will be Saturday morning from
9:00 until service time. Burial will be in the Rose Hill
Cemetery in Blockton, Iowa. Memorials can be given in
his name. Memories can be shared with the family on our
website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home
of Bedford.

Brown, Kenneth Truman, 90, Grant City, passed away
Friday, April 20, 2007 at St. Francis Hospital, Maryville, Mo.
Kenneth was born Nov. 2, 1916, the son of Allie and Hazel
Brown at Blockton, Iowa. He was married to Virginia Lee
Wyman Feb. 5, 1938 at Troy, Kan. She preceded him in death
Oct. 28, 1996.

Brown, Leo - Funeral services for Leo Brown, age 63 of Bedford were held Wednesday, April 18, 2007, at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation was held Tuesday from 12:00 Noon to 8:00 p.m. with the family greeting friends from 6:00 to 8:00. Burial with military rites was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Hospice of Central Iowa or the Bedford Ambulance Service. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com by clicking on obits. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Beemer, Carrel - Funeral services for Carrel E. Beemer, age 69, of Chillicothe,
MO, passed away at Heartland East Hospital, St. Joseph, Missouri
on Sunday June 4, 2006, were held Thursday June 8th, 2006 at
Lindley Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Missouri. Interment at
Lakeside Cemetery Sumner, Missouri
He was born on July 7, 1936 the son of John and Mildred
(Foster) Beemer in Sumner, Missouri. On March 29, 1972 he was
married to Betty L. Hague in Las Vegas, Nevada. She survives of
the home. Carrel was a Meat Cutter for 20 years at John Graves
Food Services. He later owned and operated Carrel's Cut Up in
Sumner and Beemer Pecan Farms. He is survived by his wife
Betty of the home; one son, Don Beemer and his wife Jane of
Lenexa Kansas; three daughters Carolyn Clarke of Gladstone,
Missouri; Pam Billings and her husband Scott of Smithville,
Missouri; and Emily Suchsland of Chillicothe, Missouri. One
brother, Darrell Beemer and his wife JoAnn of Wichita, Kansas;
three sisters, Lila Wickham of Creston, Iowa, Norma Jean Milford
and her husband Raymond of Laclede, Missouri; and Patty Sue
Boesch and her husband Allan of Rolla, Missouri; eight
grandchildren, two great grandsons and several nieces and
nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents John and
Mildred Beemer.
Attending the funeral from the area were Dale Beemer,
Conway, Lu Schofield, Lenox, IA; Alice Miller, Grant City, MO;
Betty and Marvin Boyer, Clearfield, IA.

Beran, Carolyn - Funeral services for Carolyn Beran of Lenox were held
Monday, July 10, 2006 at the Lenox United Presbyterian Church
in Lenox with Rev. Tim Maxa officiating. Burial took place in the
North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials may be directed
to Southern Christian College of Midsayap, Cotabato, Philippines
for Student Scholarships. On-line condolences may be left at
www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.
Carolyn Beran was born January 29, 1938 in Port Angles,
Washington the daughter of Austin Brown and Ellen Grace
Gibson. She graduated from Lenox High School in 1955 and went
on to further her education graduating from Iowa State University
with a Bachelor's Degree in Home Economics in 1959. On June
29, 1958 she was united in marriage to John C. Beran at the
Stringtown Church in Stringtown.
She was a teacher/missionary from 1969-1987 and 1990-1999
served as a missionary in Philippines where she taught Home
Economics in two church related schools and for many years
worked in nutrition programs with families in a slum area of
Manila and a resettlement community near Manila. Carolyn also
helped set up a health program in Manobo tribal communities in a
mountain area near where she lived.
Carolyn loved flowers, cooking and playing the piano. She
served as a ruling elder in the Lenox United Presbyterian Church,
Sunday School Teacher, Christian Education Director and
president of the Presbyterian Women's Association.
Survivors include her husband, John Beran, Lenox; children,
son Mark (Tammy) Beran, Colo, Iowa; daughters, Beth (Donovan)
Drake, Durham, North Carolina and Gail (Karl) Neils, Seattle,
Washington; mom Ellen Grace Brown, Prescott, Iowa; two
grandchildren, Michael and McKenzie Drake; brother Byron
(Marilyn) Brown, Prescott, Iowa; sister Laura (Loren) Scholl,
Branson, Missouri; and a host of friends in the U.S. and the
Philippines.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her father, Austin Brown.

Brown, Mildred Lucile - Mildred Lucile Brown, born in Taylor County, Iowa in 1912,
went to her maker April 10, 2006. She passed away of
natural causes at the age of 94 in Phoenix, AZ. She was the
daughter of Frank and Edith F (Johnson) Davis. Mildred had
an active life. She may have set a longevity record as a
lounge singer in Omaha, Nebraska at the New Tower Inn in
the seventies and eighties. Mildred moved to Arizona to live
with her daughter in 1991. Mildred's family goes back to the
early 1600's in Virginia. She is survived by her daughter,
Barbara Jane Adams Pfeifler, her son Dennis Frank Brown
and her sister, Melva Bunn and 2 nephews, Richard and
Rany Bunn from Tulsa. Mildred has 5 grandchildren, 2 of
whom live in Florida and 8 great-grandchildren. The family
gathered on Saturday, June 24, 2006 at the Washington
Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of
Bedford in charge of local arrangements.

Burton, Richard (Dick), age 86, of New Market, Iowa, passed away Sunday, December 5, 2004, at his home New Market, Iowa. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 8, 2004, at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Loren Daly officiating. Masonic services by Plumb Lodge #285 AF & AM, Siam, Iowa will be held 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 7, 2004, to be followed by visitation with the family at the funeral home. Burial will be in Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to Siam Church of Christ, New Market Civic Club or Plumb Lodge #285, Siam, Iowa. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Richard Paul Burton was born December 10, 1917, near Norwich, Iowa, to Clifford Edgar Burton and Verna (Scott) Burton. Dick was a 1935 New Market High School graduate and attended Iowa State University at Ames, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Elsie Rose Fine June 10, 1942 at St. Joseph, Missouri.

In addition to his farming and raising of livestock, he did drywall work all around the country. Dick was a scoutmaster in the 1970's. He was a member of the Siam Church of Christ. He was also a member of Plumb Lodge #285, Siam, Iowa. Dick was instrumental in starting the New Market Low Rent Housing. He was a charter member of the New Market Civic Club. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and also enjoyed traveling.

Preceding Dick in death were his parents; brother, Albert Burton; brother, Edgar Burton; brother, Keith Burton; three grandsons: Richard Paul Hamilton, Matthew D. Hamilton, Burton John Hamilton. Survivors include his wife, Elsie Rose Burton of New Market, Iowa; daughter, Eleanor Jo Blackney and husband Lewis of Hopkins, Missouri; grandson, Joe Daniel Hamilton and wife Cindy of New Market, Iowa; great-granddaughter, Rosie Hamilton of New Market, Iowa.

 Buckner, O.M. – Buckner funeral at Gravity Tuesday – Gravity, March 2 – Funeral services for O.M. Buckner, 76, of Humboldt were held at the Methodist church here Tuesday. He was rural mail carrier here for 40 years, moving to Humboldt when his health failed, to be near his son there. Services were in charge of the Rev James Sheckler. Soloist was Ruth Weller; pianist, Garland Fickess. He leaves his wife, two sons, Ralph of North Palm Beach, Fla, Dick of Humboldt; one brother, Mayo, of Glenwood; one sister, Mrs Ruth Steeg, of California. Ralph flew up from Florida and Dick and family, Humboldt, attended and the brother from Glenwood. Dinner for relatives was served at the church basement. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

Clarinda Herald Journal, Clarinda, Iowa, March 5, 1964