Clayton, Leah Kemery - Funeral Services for Leah Kemery Clayton, age 88 of Blockton who died Wednesday, April 19, 2006 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Saturday, April 22, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Blockton Christian Church. Leah was cremated following the services and interment of ashes will held in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton at a later date. Memorials can be given in Leah’s name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Kemery/Clayton family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Leah Kemery Clayton was born July 18, 1917, on the family farm northeast of Blockton, the daughter of Georgia (Stephenson) Drake and Elbert Drake. She grew up attending country school, along with her older sister and brother, Lavona and Bert. She graduated from the Blockton High School with the Class of 1935. In the fall of 1936, she was united in marriage to her ‘first love’ Clyde Kemery. To this loving union Jerry Gene and Wayne Keith were born. Always the ardent fans, she and Clyde attended all the sporting events the boys participated in as their most devoted fans. Leah was even known to make cinnamon rolls to sell at the concession stand at home basketball games. At the age of 51, Leah was a widow as a result of Clyde’s sudden death. She continued to run “Kemery Blacksmith & Welding Shop” until her retirement.

In 1987, she was united in marriage to her ‘second love’ Louis Clayton and they made their home at Louis’s farm home south of Blockton. From day one, Leah was treated as “mom and grandma” by Louis’s family. With the families joined, Leah and Louis shared three children and their spouses, six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Leah and Louis enjoyed several trips until Leah’s health made it necessary for them to remain close to home.

After suffering from several falls and small strokes, Leah depended more and more on Louis. Louis was an excellent caregiver, but due to his heart surgery in December of 2003, Leah decided to enter the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center. Here, Leah had a new “family”. She immediately fit in and was soon a favorite with her sense of humor and non-complaining way. It was at this time she met her best friend, Shirley Weir. Leah soon found out she had her own Guardian Angel, Shirley, who became her legs, her mentor and companion. Together they spent many evenings watching “Wheel of Fortune” and “Texas Ranger”. Right up to the time of Leah’s death, Shirley was always there for her. Following a severe heart attack and complications, Leah passed away on April 19, 2006 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa.

Left to cherish Leah’s memory are her loving husband Louis Clayton of Blockton; sons, Jerry Kemery and wife Karen, and Wayne Kemery and wife Pat of Blockton ; step-daughter, Sue Beemer and husband Paul of Maryville, Missouri; grandchildren, Kathy and Scott Coulter of Maryville; Mike and Donna Kemery of Clearfield; Marilyn Miller of Hopkins; Debbie and Bill Lynch of Redding; Deb and James Bonde of Blockton; Jim and Johnna Beemer of Maryville; great-grandchildren, Nick Rucker and Taylor Miller; Cody and Kaylee Coulter; Kati, Erica and Christopher Kemery; Cole and Callyn Bonde; Dakota and Hailee Beemer; Zach and Taylor Lynch; a sister-in-law, Kathleen Drake of Blockton; a niece, Linda Thielen of Las Vegas, Nevada; nephews, Larry Lines of North Carolina; and Earl Drake of Blockton; and a special cousin, Patty Larceri of Vero Beach, Florida.

Preceding Leah in death are her first husband, Clyde Kemery in 1969; a granddaughter, Connie Kemery in 1977; her parents, Georgia and Elbert Drake; a sister and brother-in-law, Lavona and Joe Lines; a brother and sister-in-law, Bert and Gwendolyn Drake; and a nephew Don Drake.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Leah’s passing.

Cobb, Alice Adel Funeral services for Alice Cobb age 93 of Bedford, who died Saturday, November 20, 2004 at her home were held Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Pastor Randy Allman officiating. Interment was held in the Bedford City Cemetery. Memorials can be given in Alice’s name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Alice Adel Cobb was the only daughter born to Arthur Thompson and Zetta Keith Thompson on November 10, 1911 on a farm in Ross Township, Iowa. She grew up living in Ross Township all of her life with the exception of two years when she lived in Missouri with her parents. She attended Ross Center Country School and the Bedford High School.

On August 25, 1933, she was united in marriage to William Karl Cobb in Des Moines, Iowa. To this loving union one child, Elaine K. was born.

Karl and Alice farmed in Ross Township, living on various farms until purchasing their present farm from Karl’s aunt in 1957, where she lived until her death on November 20, 2004.

Left to cherish Alice’s memory are her daughter Elaine Baldwin and husband Cliff of Bedford; grandson Todd Perdew and wife Toni and great-granddaughters Lauren and Carmen, all of Bedford; a brother, Robert Thompson and wife Ruth of Bedford; sisters-in-law Norma Baker of Bedford; and Margaret Cobb of Springfield, Missouri; special friend, Wayne Marley of Bedford; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, who all fondly called her “Aunty Al”.

Preceding Alice in death were her parents, Arthur and Zetta Thompson; her husband Karl on September 8, 1984; twin brother Allen Thompson, and three brothers-in-law, Loyd Simmons, Bill Baker and Wayne Cobb.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Alice’s passing.

Cobb, Charles Morton - Charles Morton Cobb passed away Thursday, December 24, 2009 in the loving care of his family and staff at the Marian Home and Trinity Hospice.
He was born November 5, 1916, on the home farm two miles south of Blockton, Iowa, and spent his entire life in the community except for four years in the Air Force. He attended Brush College rural school and graduated from Blockton High School in 1932 at the age of 15.
He was drafted into the military in 1942 and served as an airplane electrical mechanic with the 673rd Bomb Squadron in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations until 1946. In 2008 he was presented with the Philippine World War II medal and certificate from the Office of Veterans Affairs, Embassy of the Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C. He also received a state of Iowa certificate of recognition for bravery in the field of battle in the Philippines during World War II signed by Governor Thomas Vilas. The Filipino-American Association of Iowa also presented him a certificate of recognition for bravery and sacrifice in the liberation of the Philippines.
In 1943 he married Cleta Maudlin from Wichita Falls, TX. After discharge, they returned to Blockton and bought the acreage they named Hill ‘n Dale Farm. Cleta passed away in 1976 and he married Laura Ann Renslow in 1985. She passed away in 2002. He resided on the farm until August 2006 when he moved to Clearview Home in Mt. Ayr, Iowa, then to the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home, and later to the Marian Home both located in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
He attended Tent Chapel Church of Christ all his life and served as an elder and regularly gave edifying scriptural lessons. An important part of his life was church work and farming with his brother Dean. He carried on a sizeable farming and livestock operation on land owned and rented in the area. He was active in Farm Bureau and other farm related businesses and organizations. He always used conservation and soil preservation practices to maintain fullest productivity of the land. For 45 years he served as Clinton township clerk in Ringgold County.
Preceding him in death were parents Glenn and Grace Goforth Cobb, wife Cleta (Maudlin), wife Laura Ann (Renslow), son-in-law Kenn Patterson, and sister-in-law Evelyn Cobb.
Charles is survived by his four children and their families: Roberta Milinsky, Urbandale; Anita Patterson, Fort Dodge; Galen (Kathy) Cobb, Sugar Land, TX; and Marla (David) Fetters, Pleasant Hill. He also leaves one brother Dean (Marietta) Cobb, Blockton. In addition he leaves six grandchildren: Ryan (Amber) Patterson, Anjee (Phil) Dencklau, Brad (Christina) Cobb, Jeff Cobb, Alissa (Ian) Garbi and Kara Fetters, and four great grandchildren.
A vacation highlight was a trip to France and Switzerland in 1985. He helped with the family vegetable and fruit gardens and various school projects for his children. Holidays were always spent with his children and their families and while at Clearview Home they made weekly visits to take him to Tent Chapel Church of Christ on Sundays.
Visitation was held Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009 at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO. Funeral services were at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO, Monday, December 28, 2009 with burial at Rose Hill Cemetery, Blockton, IA.
Memorials may be left to Tent Chapel Church of Christ, Blockton, Iowa.

Cogdell, Frances Clayton - Frances Clayton Cogdell, age 91, of Atlanta, Ga., died January 30, 2010. Mrs. Cogdell, born on July 1, 1918 in Siam, Iowa, was the daughter of Ora G. Clayton and Pheobe Harper Clayton. After growing up on the family farm, she attended N.W. Missouri State Teachers College. Upon graduation in 1937, she returned to Iowa and taught for several years in country schools where first through eighth grades were all in one room. In 1943, in search of adventure, she moved to California where she met her future husband Emory (Bud) Cogdell of Union Springs, Ala., who was serving in the Navy during WWII. After 45 happy years of marriage, Bud preceded her in death in 1990. While in Atlanta, which was their home for most of their married life, Mrs. Cogdell was a homemaker before beginning a 20-year career at G.E. Credit Corp. She, like her mother before her, was always an avid baseball fan and ended up adopting the Atlanta Braves as “her” team after attending the Braves’ first home game at Atlanta-Fulton Co Stadium. Mrs. Cogdell was a faithful member of Briarcliff Baptist Church for 48 years. Through God’s blessing, she lived independently and was mentally sharp for all of her 91 years. Her greatest joy was time spent with her many friends and especially her family. Mrs. Cogdell is survived by two sons and their families: Rick and Cindy Cogdell, grandson Ben and granddaughter Shelly, of Eatonton, Ga.; David and Connie Cogdell and grandson John of Roswell, Ga. She is also survived by her sister Ruth Clayton Wasson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; nephews Donald Clayton of New Market, Iowa; Orie Clayton of Clarinda, Iowa; Dennis Wasson of Omaha, Neb.; and Larry Wasson of Pleasant View, Utah; and nieces Delores Clayton Skogman of Omaha, Neb.; and Marta Wasson Davis of LaVista, Neb.; and a large extended family. A graveside funeral service was held at Oak hill Cemetery, Union Springs, Ala., on Feb. 3, 2010 and a memorial service was held on Feb. 6, 2010 at King’s Bridge Retirement center, Atlanta, Ga.

Cohrt, Wilma Becherer Graveside memorial services for Wilma (Becherer) Cohrt, age 78, of Lenox will be held Friday, July 31, 2009 at the West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox at 3:00 p.m. Memories can be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Wilma Helen (Becherer) Cohrt was born to William Edward and Maria Alma (Reed) Becherer on a farm in Grove Township, Taylor County, Iowa on August 11, 1930.

Post education found Wilma working in Des Moines for various firms in publishing, retail sales and administrative positions.

In 1960, Wilma married Jergen (Jerry) Cohrt of Des Moines and moved to Spencer, Iowa where Jerry was a District Sales Manager for Chevrolet. Wilma and Jerry enjoyed entertaining customers and family and traveled extensively with Chevrolet and privately to many areas in the world. Jerry passed away in May of 1973. Wilma returned to the Des Moines area and resumed her career in retail sales and administrative positions and participated in various social and professional women’s clubs.

In 1994, Wilma retired and established her home in Lenox, where she helped care for Mr. Howard Morris until his passing in 2002.

Wilma is survived by her sister Shirley A. Lucas of Washington, Iowa; niece Suzanne Lucas of Washington, Iowa; nephew Richard (Pat) Lucas of Algona, Iowa; Greg (Nina Jo) Lucas of St. Louis, Missouri; Dwight (Sharon) Becherer of Shirley, New York; Larry (Marilyn) Becherer of Omaha, Nebraska and families; step-daughter Bonnie (Jim) Schriber and family of Chatham, Illinois; cousins and a host of friends.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband Jerry; brother Gene Becherer; sister-in-law Nadine Becherer; brother-in-law Charles Lucas.

Wilma will be missed by her family and friends.

Cole, Esther Mary Mertes - Graveside services for Esther Cole, age 94, of Lenox, who died Monday, March 31, 2008 will be held Thursday, April 3, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Evergreen Cemetery in Omaha, Nebraska. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7 at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Memorials can be given in Esther’s name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Esther Mary (Mertes) Cole was born April 16, 1913, in Table Rock, Nebraska the daughter of Peter Mertes and Elizabeth (Rock) Mertes. She was the only sister among five brothers and grew up in Nebraska. She always had a love of reading and learning and while in high school, decided she wanted to become a teacher. Graduating early at age 17, she began teaching in a one-room country school with 31 students from 1st through 8th grades.

Later as college hours were being required for teachers, Esther obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from Peru State College and later attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha for her Master’s Degree.

She later taught in Westside School District 66 in Omaha, Nebraska for 20 years before retiring. Upon her retirement, she received numerous teaching awards, among those, the prestigious “Nebraska Emeritus Award” for excellence in teaching in the State of Nebraska.

Esther fulfilled her God given talent of working with children. She never got ‘burned out’ and loved each child God had given her to educate. She often said, “There are no bad children” and “I’ve never met a child I couldn’t teach to read.” Through the years, one of her greatest joys was to receive phone calls, notes and visits from former students. It was remarkable the detail they could remember about being in her class and she ALWAYS remembered them and could often times tell them where they sat when they were in her classroom.

Esther married Leo Cole in 1933, and they lived in Nebraska until Leo predeceased her in 1978, shortly before Esther retired. They had one daughter, Linda Bocock.

After Leo’s death, Linda had an opportunity for a new job in the State of Virginia. Linda would not accept the position, unless Esther joined her on this new adventure. With Esther’s usual willingness to ‘try something new’, she readily agreed. Esther remarked many times later, that she didn’t see how she could have left her dear family and friends in Nebraska.

However, as God closes one door, He opens another, and Esther made some wonderful friends in Virginia as well.

Esther belonged to a variety of educational organizations, including both National and State of Nebraska Education Associations, and served 3 years on the Nebraska State Board of American Childhood Education. She was a member of the Alpha Delta Kappa Teacher’s Honorary Society and the National Professional Women’s Organization. She was also a member of the National Art Society. Esther was an active member of the Christian Women’s Club, the Retired Teacher’s Association in Virginia and an active member of her church both in Nebraska and Virginia.

After her retirement, Esther continued her “hobby” of buying and selling residential and commercial real estate, eventually forming the real estate holding company, E. Mertes Cole, LLC, for which she remained Chief Executive Officer until her death.

Linda met and married Allan Bocock in 1982, when Allan was a farmer and cattleman in Virginia. In 2004, Allan and Linda decided to fulfill a longtime dream to farm the rich black land in the Midwest. Since they could not find land near Esther and Leo’s farm in Nebraska, they proceeded to Iowa, where they purchased a farm near Lenox. Esther was again on another adventure, as Linda and Allan would not go without her. She was “ready to go” and made the transition again with her usual ‘can do’ attitude.

Esther resided at Vintage Park Assisted Living Apartments in Lenox.

Esther counted her greatest blessings to be her Lord, her family and her friends. Thank you to so many of you who kept in frequent contact. Your cards, phone calls, and visits were so special to her. She had most of your cards and pictures in a big album, which she looked through frequently.

She always said, “The Lord has been good to me!”

Esther was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, five brothers and one sister-in-law.

Left to cherish Esther’s memory is her daughter Linda and son-in-law Allan Bocock of Lenox, Iowa; special friends, Marti and Neil Welch of Omaha, Nebraska; Leita Wimer of Staunton, Virginia; Lois Randall of Waynesboro, Virginia; along with extended family and many friends.

Esther was a devoted wife, mother and teacher to many.
Her enthusiasm, humor, insight and
gentle kindness will be missed by everyone.

Cole, Hunter Michael Funeral Services for Hunter Michael Cole, the infant son of Adam and Brandi (Irvin) Cole, who was born March 19, 2007 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa, were held Saturday, March 24, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Hunter’s name. Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Hunter Michael Cole was born at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on March 19, 2007, to his loving parents Adam and Brandi (Irvin) Cole and big brother, Austin Henry Cole.

Left to cherish Hunter’s memory are his parents Adam and Brandi Cole and his big brother, Austin Henry Cole all of Bedford; paternal grandparents are David and Teresa Hoover of Corning; and Gary and Sheri Cole of Fort Collins, Colorado; maternal grandparents are Mike and Chris Irvin of Bedford; the paternal great-grandmother is Dorothy Shoemaker of Corning; maternal great-grandparents are Richard and Jean Fitzgerald of Corning; and Jim and June Irvin of Bedford; Hunter is also survived by his aunts, uncles and cousins, Andrew and Peggy Cole and their daughter Annabelle; Amanda and William Dillingham and their children Payton and Nathan; Michael and Janel Irvin; Jennifer Irvin and Adam Bruck; and Jessica, Trevor and Ian Fletcher; along with many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Hunter in death are his great-grandfather Charles Shoemaker, Jr., and great-grandmother, Mary Anne Irvin.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Hunter’s passing.

Combs, Darrell Dean Funeral services for Dean Combs, age 78 of Bedford, who died Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning will be held Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 will be held in the Lexington Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Central Iowa at 107 S. Fillmore, Mount Ayr, IA 50854-1823 or the Kidney Foundation, 6110 Executive Blvd, Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Darrell Dean Combs was born to Dale Combs and Lucille (Good) Combs on January 29, 1931, on a farm north of Bedford, Iowa. A year later the Combs family moved to a farm north of New Market where Dean attended Glasgow and Prairie Gem schools in Dallas Township. He graduated New Market High School in 1949, and returned to work on the family farm.

In January of 1951, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in the 5th Air Force during the Korean War. He was stationed in Japan, and then at frontline air-support Base 5, almost a fatal assignment for him. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant, Crew Chief on F84 and F86 fighters and gained a life-long affection for aircraft, second only to his favorite vocation of livestock farming.

Upon discharge in 1954, he returned to the family farm at New Market. In March 1956, his interest in aircraft took him to the Sioux City Air Base, in civil service jet maintenance with the USAF unit based there. During this time he married Mickey Huntington on March 31, 1956 and the new family resided near Sloan, Iowa. When the Air Force was phased-out and the base closed, Dean continued aircraft related service with the Sioux City Gateway Airport until 1961.

In 1961, the family rented a farm near the Taylor County Home, and then in 1964, they purchased their present home on Lake Road. It was there Dean was able to pursue his favorite vocation of livestock farming. He established himself as an area Spot swine breeder for many years. He and Harold Guenther, a local Duroc breeder, spent many hours discussing the merits of their respective breeds. He also enjoyed buying and back-grounding yearlings heifers, but found a challenge to his talents managing Mickey’s Charolais cow herd.

Dean enjoyed keeping busy and in addition to farming he drove a truck for the Bedford Coop Elevator, worked at the Bedford Sale Barn, and worked at the Lake of Three Fires until his health prevented this work. For many years, wherever Dean was seen in his pickup, he had a trusty canine co-pilot. The last one, serving him for over 14 years, could sense and remind him of his dialysis times. He also did woodworking, making small barns to be given to unknown recipients in the community.

Dean joined the Conway American Legion; later he became a lifetime member of the Bedford John F. Hardin Post 164. He was always ready to honor, with pride, an American Veteran of the area at the funeral ceremony, as his health permitted.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mickey Combs of the home; son Rodney Combs of St. Joseph, Missouri; two sisters, Iris (Walter) Woods of Clarinda; and Judy (Gerald) Herzberg of Clarinda; sister-in-law, Fritz (Ray) Creswell of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Dean is preceded in death by his parents Dale and Lucille Combs.

Dean was a devoted husband and father.
His enthusiasm, humor and insight will be greatly missed.

Combs, Estel Dewey Combs was born September 19, 1922 to Dewey and Hallene (Slack) Combs in Taylor County, Iowa near New Market. After a brief illness he passed away peacefully on February 8, 2009 at Nebraska Methodist Hospital, Omaha, Nebraska.

Estel attended school at Lone Star in Taylor County, Iowa and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1942 and served with the 103rd Infantry Division. He served honorably in World War II in France and Austria and during his service in France in December of 1944, he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. He was discharged in November of 1945 and returned to the family farm near Hawleyville, Iowa. In 1946, he became a farmer and rural mail carrier and after 32 years, retired in 1980. He married Phyllis Hatfield of Shambaugh, Iowa on September 12, 1948 in Clarinda, Iowa and they made their first home northeast of Hawleyville and then moved to New Market for two years before moving to their present home where they have lived for 55 years. All of his years of delivering mail were out of New Market except for 3 years when he was transferred to a rural route in Shenandoah, Iowa. He was a local fixture in his red, right-hand drive Ford pickup, which had over 400,000 miles on it when he retired.

After his retirement, he and Phyllis bought a travel trailer and spent many a warm winter in the “Valley” in Texas and traveling throughout the United States. He enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren, all of who will greatly miss him. Estel was an avid reader of westerns and in recent years enjoyed mysteries as well. He also had a keen interest in trains and enjoyed any chance he had to ride them and watch his train videos and read his numerous books on the subject. His favorite movie star was John Wayne and he never tired of watching the “Duke” in action. Estel was an excellent wood craftsman and made many pieces for craft shows he attended with Phyllis, for his friends and his family who will cherish them all. His special dog friend was Katie, a black Labrador who will miss their walks and his “bone” handouts. He volunteered at the Taylor County Museum and spent many enjoyable hours showing visitors the barn, caboose and machinery. One of the greatest moments of his life was being selected for an Honor Flight for World War II veterans to Washington, D. C. in May 2008. To visit the WW II memorial and other memorials to veterans and to see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a trip he had not expected to have the chance to do. He felt so honored to be able to have this opportunity. Every day, weather permitting he flew the flag to honor his country and his comrades in arms. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a 62 year member of the American Legion Post 300 of New Market.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis, his wife of 60 years and their three children, son, Mike (Sandra) Combs of Gordon, Nebraska, daughter, Patricia (Dwight) Hicks of Indianola, Iowa and daughter, Shirley Combs of Clarinda, Iowa; grandchildren, Jill (Aron) Pease of Gainesville, Florida, Megan Hicks of Columbia, S.C., Shawn Combs of Gordon, NE and Lucas Hicks of Iowa City, IA, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Barbara Reese Burham and Bob Burham of Clarinda and sisters-in-law, Jeanne Walkowski of Bella Vista, AR and Mary Combs of New Market and several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Estel was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lyle Combs; granddaughter, Pamela Combs and brothers-in-law, Norman Hatfield and Ronald Reese.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

Combs, Lyle Eldon Memorial services for Lyle Combs, age 81 of New Market, Iowa, who died Saturday, July 19, 2008 at Mercy Hospital, Council Bluffs, Iowa will be held Thursday, July 24, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Christ, New Market, Iowa with Loren Daly officiating. Burial with military rites will be in the Dallas Center Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. A memorial will be established. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Lyle Eldon Combs was born July 9, 1927, on a farm in Taylor County, near New Market, Iowa. His parents were George Dewey Combs and Hallene Marie (Slack) Combs. He attended Lone Star School through 8th grade, and then worked for his father, Dewey, and for other farmers in the neighborhood.

Lyle was inducted into the U.S. Army in October 1945 at Fort Snelling, Minnesota; then stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington for a time. He then served his country in Occupied Japan and at Pusan, Korea. He was a truck driver and military policeman. He was honorably discharged in January 1947.

Lyle was married to Betty Fischer in 1947 and they lived on a farm north of New Market. Two children were born to this union, Wayne Ray and Susan Marie. They farmed for eight years, then sold out and moved to Fruit Valley, Washington in 1955, later living at Orchards and Wishram, Washington. In 1957, Lyle started working for the SP & S Railroad, which later became the Burlington Northern Railroad. He joined the Methodist Church in Orchards, Washington in 1961. He moved to Manzanita, Oregon in 1970, where he worked at Astoria, Oregon Railroad Depot until he retired in 1989, after a career of thirty two years. Lyle was very proud of his railroad career.

Lyle met Mary Leighton of New Market, Iowa in 1987 and they were married on March 20, 1990 in Washington. They kept homes in both Manzanita and New Market for several years; then moved to New Market permanently. Lyle was an avid rodeo fan, loved camping and traveling throughout the Southwest. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as watching and feeding the birds and squirrels. He enjoyed playing his guitar and using his CB radio. Lyle loved spending time with his grandkids. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion and the PRCA.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents; a grand-daughter, Bethany Leighton and a niece, Pamela Combs.

Lyle is survived by his wife, Mary Combs of New Market, Iowa; son, Wayne Combs of Bullhead City, Arizona; daughter, Susan Laddusaw and husband Gary of Washougal, Washington; four step children, Lana Gotcher and husband Greg of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Joyce Carlson and husband Dave of College Springs, Iowa, Alan Leighton and wife Elaine of Des Moines, Iowa, Michael Leighton of Polk City, Iowa; six grandchildren; eight step grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren; brother, Estel Combs and wife Phyllis of New Market, Iowa; nephew, Mike Combs and nieces, Patty Hicks and Shirley Combs. Other survivors include sisters-in-law, Arlene King, Jeanie Graham and husband Roy, Anita Keller, Loleta Spring and husband Gary, Judy Sparks; brothers-in-law, Jack Keller and wife Mary Ann, Rich Keller and wife Cindy; many nieces, nephews, other relative and friends.

Lyle will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

Cook, Leah Canney Funeral services for Leah Cook, age 64, of Lenox, who died Thursday, June 2, 2005 at her home were held Wednesday, June 8, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at the Stringtown Church. Private family interment will be held at a later date. Memorials can be given in Leah’s name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Cook family on our web page, www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Leah Jean Canney was born August 12, 1940 to Donald and Corda Carson Canney in Osceola, Iowa and died June 2, 2005 at home in Lenox, Iowa.

Leah attended country school in Clark County through the 8th grade and graduated high school in Osceola.

She worked a short time for the telephone company but being a real country girl at heart did not enjoy this, stayed at home and helped her Mom and Dad on the farm until meeting Roy Cook.

At this meeting a great love developed. They were united in marriage December 31, 1961 at Bethel Chapel Church in Clark County. To this union 5 children came about. Jeffery of Ankeny; Lynne Hites and husband Andy of Pleasant Hill; Corey of Altoona; James of Corning; Allen of Red Oak; and many other children that called Leah Mom. She had 5 adopted children, 4 grandchildren, Brandon and Lindsey Cook, Meagan and Ashley Hites.

Leah and Roy for several years worked with foster children program. They had about 30 children pass through their home. Many told her she was the only Mom that they had ever known. She loved working with and teasing people for good fun. Her love was not things but people. Thinking of others before herself, she lived her life by the Golden Rule. She taught this value to her children with love and forgiveness.

Leah always tried to serve the Lord in whatever way that she could. She enjoyed people, her family, rodeos, flowers, and animals.

In the 1980's she and Roy moved to Des Moines to be in the active ministry. While there they served as co-pastors of different churches and volunteered to help others. They spent a year in southern Missouri working for the lord and had hoped some day to return there to retire.

In 1993, they moved to Lenox to pastor at Stringtown Community Church and enjoyed this challenge. During this time they and Peggy Brown made three missionary trips to southeast Kentucky and enjoyed the people that she met there and hoped to go again.

Leah enjoyed traveling, sewing and her church work. She couldn't understand why people didn't enjoy being in god's house and doing his work.

Leah is at home with the Lord today and you can bet she is putting in a good word for each of you.

Preceding Leah in death are her grandparents and parents.

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

Cordell, Alberta Fay Funeral services for Alberta Cordell, age 58 of Athelstan, Iowa, who died Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center were held Monday, October 15, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa with Pastor Scott Marcum officiating. Visitation with the family was held 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, October 14 at the funeral home. Burial was in the Athelstan Cemetery, Athelstan, Iowa. Memorials may be given in her name. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Alberta Fay Cordell was born September 4, 1949 in Creston, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas Jefferson Young and Rachel (Davis) Young. Alberta grew up in Creston. In the late 1970’s she moved to Taylor County and spent some time in Missouri. In 1988, she met Doyle Cordell and on February 16, 1989, they were united in marriage in Blockton, Iowa. The couple resided in Athelstan until her health required her to be hospitalized She later moved to the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center.

Alberta was a member of the Holiness Church in Athelstan. Alberta really enjoyed fishing and she would go fishing as often as she could. She also spent time doing needle work and crocheting. She also enjoyed baking, especially pies and cakes. Alberta loved country and western music, not only listening but dancing as well. She was a people person, willing to help anyone and often put their needs ahead of her own.

Alberta is survived by her husband Doyle of Athelstan, Iowa; half brothers, Ralph Goff of Creston, Iowa and Freddy Young of California; half sisters, Mary Ann Goff of Afton, Iowa and Darlene Adams of Denver, Colorado.

Preceding Alberta in death were her parents, Thomas and Rachel Young and half sister, Shirley Goff.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Alberta’s passing.

Cordell, Doyle Laverne Funeral services for Doyle Cordell, age 75 of Athelstan, who died Thursday, February 21, 2008 at his home were held Monday, February 25, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Athelstan Cemetery. Memorials can be given in Doyle’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 Bedford.

Doyle Laverne Cordell was born November 23, 1932, in Athelstan, Iowa the son of John Cordell and Juanita (Rusco) Cordell. He grew up attending rural schools. He was a lifelong Athelstan resident working as a carpenter and doing general labor work. In 1988, Doyle met Alberta Young and on February 16, 1989, the couple was united in marriage in Blockton. Together they made their home in Athelstan until her death in October of 2007. Doyle continued to live in Athelstan until his death. Doyle served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1954, earning the National Defense Service Medal and the Occupation Medal, Germany.

Doyle and Alberta loved country and western music, not only listening to it, but dancing as well. He enjoyed hunting and fishing when ever time allowed. Doyle professed a Christian faith.

Left to cherish Doyle’s memory is a brother, Kelly Cordell of Athelstan; along with several other family members.

Preceding Doyle in death were his parents; his wife Alberta in October of 2007; two sisters, Colleene Fleetwood Dillon and Geraldine Young; two brothers, Gene Cordell and Leonard Cordell.

Doyle was a kind man who enjoyed nature
He will by dearly missed by his family.

Cox, Cecil Max Funeral services for Max Cox, age 90 of Bedford, who died Sunday, August 6, 2006 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Friday, August 11, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Reverend Jamie Mogler 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 his name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Cox family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Cecil Max Cox was born October 11, 1915, in rural Page County, Iowa. He was one of ten children born to William A. Cox and Effie (Downey) Cox. Max and a brother farmed for a few years. He then drove a truck for Cudahy Packing Company in Bedford on a country cream and egg route. On October 2, 1940, he was united in marriage to Verna M. Lewis, daughter of Fred H. and Lula Lewis. They spent their entire married life in Bedford and in 1952, they built their home on Court Street. After 62 years of marriage, Verna preceded him in death in November of 2002.

Max answered the call to serve his country in October of 1942. He was in the service for three years, serving 30 months of that time in the South Pacific. He was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and several other medals.

Max was the first school bus driver for the Bedford Community School District. He later worked as a custodian in the school for 30 years. He loved working with the children. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Bedford, serving in several capacities throughout the years. He also served the community in numerous ways, including participation on the Library Board and helping with the Taylor County Museum. He was Commander of the Bedford V.F.W. for two years and belonged to the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164. Max loved to be outdoors, hunting and fishing whenever he could. Being a ‘staunch supporter’ of the Bedford Bulldogs, Max enjoyed watching all kinds of athletic events throughout the years.

Left to cherish Max’s memory is a brother-in-law, Duane Lewis; numerous nieces and nephews and their extended families and many dear friends throughout the community and especially the Godfather’s Coffee Crew.

Preceding Max in death were his parents; his loving wife Verna in 2002; four brothers, Clifford, Ober, Kenneth, and John Howard; five sisters, Mimalee, Audrey, Luna, Grace and Dorothy.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

Cross, Harold Eugene - Funeral Services for Harold Cross, age 69 of Bedford who died Tuesday, March 22, 2005 in Maryville, Missouri were held Friday, March 25, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Harold Eugene Cross was born July 24, 1935, in Hopkins, Missouri the son of William R. Cross and Helen Sobbing Cross. He was one of eleven children having five brothers and five sisters. He was born at home and his two older brothers, Bud and Raymond, had to walk to town to get the doctor, but were truly excited to ride back to the family farm in the doctor’s car! He grew up attending Hopkins School, graduating with the Class of 1954. As a young man he attended the Hopkins Christian Church. When he was baptized he thought it would be a good idea to wear his father’s dress pants. After the baptism Harold hung them back where he found them . . . still wet . . . his father was not impressed! Harold was united in marriage to Dorothy (Dottie) Lewis in March of 1954, after dating in high school. To this loving union three children were born, Deanna Kay, Helen Teresa “Toots” and Jason.

In 1955 Harold and Dottie moved to Bedford and worked for Harry and Maxine Johnson at Cobb’s Ice Cream where they made ice cream and processed milk. In the next forty-five years he was a milk distributor for Borden Company, Flynn Dairy, Prairie Farms and Roberts Dairy of Des Moines, Iowa and Omaha, Nebraska. In December of 1998 he was forced into retirement after suffering a stroke.

In the earlier years Harold was a member of the Bedford Lions Club and Bedford Community School Boosters. He served on the Water Board for the City of Bedford and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bedford. Harold had a wonderful sense of humor and was always more than willing to pull a prank on anyone he thought needed it! He was a very kind, loving and compassionate man. Harold came from a large family and drew strength from it. He truly loved spending time with them.

Left to cherish Harold’s memory are his loving wife of fifty-one years, Dottie of Bedford; three children, Deanna Cross of Jefferson City, Missouri; Helen “Toots” Stroburg and husband Craig of Glenwood, Iowa; and Jason Cross of Detroit, Michigan; two brothers, Robert Cross and wife LaVonne of Fremont, Nebraska; Earl Cross and wife Maggie of Hopkins, Missouri; two sisters, Lena Mae Espey and husband Dick of Maryville, Missouri; and Betty Lee and husband Everett of Bedford; two grandsons, Jordan Lashmett and Justin Lashmett of Omaha, Nebraska; a step-grandson Corey Stroburg and wife Jill of Merrill, Iowa; a step-granddaughter Mandy Carter and husband Bill of Lee Summit, Missouri; two step-great-granddaughters Harley and Mya Stroburg of Merrill, Iowa; along with many nieces, nephews and a whole community of friends.

Preceding Harold in death are his parents; three sisters, Ruby Santee; Darlene Eads and Pauline Kreps; three brothers, Russell Cross; Raymond Cross and Dean Cross; a grandson Micah Ross Hightshoe.

Harold was a wonderful husband and father who always had a special love for his brothers and sisters.
May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Harold’s passing.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Crawford, Elaine Virginia Nothwehr - Elaine Virginia Nothwehr Crawford was born to Eli and Lena Nothwehr on December 3, 1931 in Yorktown Iowa and died March 14, 2010 at Jenny Edmonds Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Elaine attended elementary school in Yorktown and completed her High School education in Clarinda. Elaine was confirmed at St John’s Lutheran Church in Clarinda. After finishing her schooling Elaine worked for Clarinda Telephone Exchange as an operator, when she met Donald Crawford. After Elaine raised her children she worked at the Style Shop in Bedford for several years and enjoyed all the acquaintances made.

On February 23, 1951 Elaine married Donald Crawford at St John’s Lutheran Church in Clarinda, Iowa. Elaine and Don resided in Clarinda until 1952 when they moved to Bedford, Iowa, due to a change in Don’s career with Iowa Power and Light. To this union they added two children, Rebecca Terbell of Cottonwood, AZ and Dennis Crawford of New Market, Iowa. Elaine and Don resided in Bedford for their entire married life. Although they called Bedford their home, Elaine and Don spent their winters in Yuma Arizona, since Don’s retirement in 1985.

Elaine is survived by husband Don, daughter Becky and Phil Terbell of Cottonwood, AZ and their children Kelly Terbell of Tucson AZ, Jennifer and Brian Hostetler of Surprise AZ, and their foster son Tom, Carolyn and Hannah Scarbrough of Apache Junction, AZ, and son Dennis and Jeanne Crawford of New Market, IA, and their children Nathan and Alicia Crawford of Bedford and Keri and Josh Castillo of Nixa, MO. Elaine has one living sister Dorothy Brooks of Clarinda, and has many brother and sister in-laws along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Harry Nothwehr, Lavern Nothwehr and one sister Beulah Steeve.

Elaine was a very loving wife, mother and friend. She enjoyed her winters in Yuma, fishing trips to Minnesota, and the motorcycle rides. Sunday afternoon lunches in the garage with family and always looked forward to family reunions. Elaine was very active in church activities at St Timothy’s Lutheran Church. Elaine became a very good golfer upon retirement and enjoyed traveling to many tournaments.


Celebration of Life Memorial Serivce for Elaine Virginia Crawford was held Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Paul Lutheran Chuch in Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation was Wednesday, March 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the St. Timothy Church in Bedford, Iowa.


Memorials are suggested to the Bedford Ambulance.

Cartwright, Doris M. Leighton - Dr. Doris M. Cartwright, 90, of Bettendorf, Iowa, died Thursday, August 28, 2008 at Trinity at Terrace Park, Bettendorf. Celebration of Life services will be held at 1 PM Friday, September 5th, at Weerts Funeral Home, Kimberly at Jersey Ridge, Davenport. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Private burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the family.

Dr. Cartwright was born in 1918 in Hopkins, Missouri to Donald W. and Bessie M. Leighton.

She married Dr. Lewis G. Cartwright on December 29, 1937 in Rockport, Missouri. He died July 30, 1996.

A graduate of the former Marycrest College and Palmer College of Chiropractic, she taught those with learning disabilities for 29 years. She retired from teaching in 1983. She continued to practice chiropractic with her husband Lewis, totaling nearly 40 years, and retired in 1988.

Her memberships included St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Davenport, Order of the Eastern Star, the White Shrine, and the Red Hat Copperettes.

Doris enjoyed being a grandmother most of all and cherished time spent with her family. Doris is survived by her children; sons: Donald (Lois) Cartwright, of Davenport, Robert (Sandra) Cartwright, of York, PA, and daughter Linda (Thomas) Behning, of Pleasant Valley; grandchildren: Steve (Louise) Cartwright of Denver, Colorado, Kim Cartwright (Zack Rumler) of Moline, Illinois, Kari (Bruce) Morris of Columbus, Mississippi, Bryan Cartwright of Eldridge, Iowa, Kelly Cartwright Romano (Bill) of Lancaster, PA, Kirby Cartwright, of York, PA, Kyle Cartwright, of Tokyo, Japan, Tim (Gedean) Behning of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, T.J. (Heidi) Behning of Bettendorf, Tammi Behning Manser (Simon) of Davenport, and Tara Behning (Jorge Lira) of Davenport; great-grandchildren: Amanda Oakes, Hailey Behning, Carley Behning, Sophia Romano, Brody Behning, Brady Behning, and Addie Behning, Tomas Lira, Rikkey Rumler, and step great-grandchilden: Patrick Manser, Amanda Morris, and Stacy Morris.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Dr. Darwin Leighton and a sister at birth, Waive Lucille.