Taylor County, Iowa obituaries
 

McMahill, Alyene Helen Lovitt - Memorial services for Alyene McMahill, age 83 of Bedford, formerly of Gravity, who died Thursday, October 4, 2007 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Monday, October 8, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Burial of ashes was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity.

Alyene Helen (Lovitt) McMahill was born October 1, 1924 near Gravity, Iowa the daughter of Jay D. Lovitt and Millie R. (Scott) Lovitt. She grew up attending school in Gravity, graduating with the Class of 1943. After graduation, Alyene moved to Omaha, Nebraska where she was employed. She was united in marriage to Walter McMahill and a son, Rick, was born to bless her life. Together she and Rick moved back to Gravity to live with her parents. She went to work for her brother Wayne and wife Bonetta at the Lovitt Store in Gravity. In fact, Wayne says “she did everything!” After they sold the store, she went to work for the Places Store in Bedford. After three years at Places, Alyene became self-employed cleaning homes and offices until her retirement. In her spare time, Alyene enjoyed going fishing. On July 1, 1991, Alyene moved into the Northside Apartments in Bedford. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Bedford and a Board Member of the Bedford Senior Citizen’s Center. Alyene devoted many volunteer hours at the nursing home throughout her life, always making sure to brighten someone’s day with her wit and wisdom.

Left to cherish Alyene’s memory are her son Rick McMahill and wife Gwen of Raleigh, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Brent McMahill and wife Tracey of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania; Brian McMahill and wife Christie of Tacoma, Washington; and Shawna Schuller and husband John of Raleigh, North Carolina; three great-grandsons, Jay, Logan and Braydon; two great-granddaughters, Megan and Samantha; a brother, Wayne Lovitt of Gravity; a sister, Irene Downs of Bellevue, Nebraska; a nephew Rudy Lovitt and wife Beverly; along with many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Alyene in death were her parents Jay and Millie Lovitt, and a brother, Wendell Lovitt.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

 

McMath, Patricia Louise Frazier - Patricia Louise McMath, daughter of Charles and Bessie Frazier, was born August 25, 1926, in Creston, Iowa. She lived there until moving to Lenox in 1958. Patty and husband Marion McMath owned and operated Mac’s Cafe & Lounge for over 10 years. Patty enjoyed those that came to her home and were involved in Pat’s Ceramics.


Patricia was a caregiver and homemaker. Patricia was happiest when caring for someone else, putting their needs above her own. Patty loved kids and was a babysitter for area children for over 40 years. She was best known as “Grandma Patty” by many in the community.

People always knew they were welcome; family and friends can cherish the special memories of gathering at her home.

Patty’s hobbies included sewing, embroidering and quilting. Family members enjoyed receiving and will treasure her unique sewing gifts.

Patricia is survived by sister Ona Walker, her daughters Susan Agans and husband Willie, Debbie Bender and husband Tom; son Mark Hoffman and wife Lori all of Lenox; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Preceding Patricia in death were her parents, Charles and Bessie; brother Harry Frazier and sister Geraldine Kiesling; husband Marion McMath; Susan’s father, Bob Gamet; and son-in-law, Ronnie Fulk.

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

 

McNeese, Phyllis Jean Carmichael - Funeral services for Phyllis J. McNeese, age 76 of Clarinda, Iowa, who died Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa were held Friday, October 10, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Pastor Brian Bontrager officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m., Thursday, October 9, 2008, at the funeral home. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa.

Phyllis Jean McNeese was born March 25, 1932 in New Market, Iowa, the daughter of Ben Carmichael and Goldie Richie Carmichael. Phyllis grew up in the New Market-Clarinda area, attending school in New Market. She met Leonard McNeese through a friend of Leonards. The couple was united in marriage June 1, 1948 in Clarinda. They were blessed with four children, Bill, Linda, Beverly and Leonard. They lived in Clarinda where Phyllis worked as a nurses’ aide and medical aide at West Heights Manor. Phyllis and Leonard also spent some time in New Mexico and Arkansas. Phyllis retired in 1985 and Leonard passed away July, 1988.

The most important part of Phyllis’s life was her family. After her retirement her life was centered around her grandkids. She was always willing to play a prank or joke and was known to speak her mind. She enjoyed camping and the outdoors, something she and Leonard did often when they were younger. They also loved to dance.

Left to cherish her memory are her children Bill McNeese and wife Judy of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Linda Hudson of Kennesaw, Georgia, Beverly Hale of Clarinda, Iowa; ten grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; brothers, Jerry Carmichael and wife Cleora of Springdale, Arkansas, Kelly Carmichael and wife Mary of Bella Vista, Arkansas; sister, Sherri Hicks and husband Jim of Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Preceding Phyllis in death were her parents; husband, Leonard in 1988; son, Leonard in infancy; brother, Richard Carmichael.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

 

McFee, Kenneth Darwin - Funeral services for Kenneth McFee, age 85, of Lenox, who died Sunday, December 5, 2004, at Greater Community Hospital in Creston were held Wednesday, December 8, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Interment was held in the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.


Kenneth Darwin McFee was born September 27, 1919 north of Lenox, Iowa the son of Lewis Wellington McFee and Bertha Isabelle Jones McFee. Kenneth was a lifelong area resident. He graduated from the Lenox High School with the Class of 1937. On August 31, 1940, he was united in marriage to Mary Dolores Purviance. Kenneth farmed as well being a partner with his brother, Wayne McFee, in the Lenox Bowling Alley, which they operated for 40 years.

Kenneth was an active community member serving on the Lenox City Council for 14 years; he was also a 74-year member of the United Presbyterian Church where he had served as an Elder and Trustee. He enjoyed his time spent as a Boy Scout Leader when the boys were young. Kenneth was an excellent woodworker and craftsman, having built three grandfather clocks, the Chancel arrangement at the Presbyterian Church, and helped his brother Wayne build the Lenox Bowling Alley. He and his family enjoyed taking many family vacations, often going to the Black Hills in South Dakota. He was a sports enthusiast, attending most of the Lenox athletic events throughout the years, as well as watching sports events on TV.

Left to cherish Kenneth’s memory are his loving wife of 64 years, Mary McFee of Lenox; two sons, Terry McFee of Phoenix, Arizona; and Galen McFee and wife Sharleen of Goshen, Indiana; four grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; a sister, Bonita Mohler of Altoona, Iowa; and a host of friends.

Preceding Kenneth in death are his parents and a brother Wayne McFee.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

 

McFee, Mary Delores Purviance - Funeral services for Mary McFee, age 87, of Lenox, who died Friday, March 23, 2007 at her home were held Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Lenox United Presbyterian Church. Visitation was held Tuesday from 3:00 to 8:00 with the family greeting friends from 7:00 to 8:00 at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Interment was held in the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.


Mary Delores (Purviance) McFee was born January 4, 1920 to Frank Willet Purviance and Estelle Irene (Sink) Purviance. She grew up on her parents’ farm west of Cromwell, Iowa and attended Cromwell schools, graduating with the Class of 1937 in Cromwell.

On August 31, 1940 she was united in marriage in Rockport, Missouri to Kenneth Darwin McFee, a union that lasted 64 years until Kenneth’s death in 2004.

Mary was an avid gardener and enjoyed her flowers and canning and freezing vegetables. For forty years she helped with the operation of McFee Brothers Bowl in Lenox along with Kenneth, his brother Wayne and sister-in-law Rexine. She enjoyed bowling and enjoyed watching all sports, though she didn’t always agree with the officiating. She was an active member of the Lenox United Presbyterian Church being a member for nearly 60 years and serving in several capacities.

Left to cherish Mary’s memory are her son Terry McFee of Phoenix, Arizona, her son Galen McFee and wife Sharleen of Goshen, Indiana, four grandchildren, two great granddaughters, sisters Ruby Flora of Ames, Iowa, Thelma Miller of Lone Tree, Iowa, Lucille Veatch of Lamar, Colorado and a host of friends and relatives.
Preceding Mary in death are her parents, her husband Kenneth, and three brothers Fred, Dale, and Glen Purviance.

Mary will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

McCallon, Betty - Funeral Services for Betty McCallon, age 81 of Blockton who died Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at Memorial City Hospital in Houston, Texas were held Monday, January 29, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Bethel Cemetery in Diagonal. Memorials can be given in Betty’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.

Betty McCallon was born November 4, 1925, in Winterset, Iowa. She was the only daughter of Reverend Frank Clare and Bessie (Stahl) McCallon. Betty passed away on January 24, 2007, at Memorial City Hospital in Houston, Texas at the age of 81 years, 2 months, 20 days.

Betty attended elementary school in Osceola, Iowa. Her father served the Lord as a Christian Church Minister for the congregations of Greenfield, Lenox, and Osceola, requiring several moves with her family. After Betty graduated from high school, she attended Drake University.

After raising her family, Betty attended Southwest Community College in Creston, Iowa and received her Licensed Practical Nurse Degree. She then attended College of St. Mary, graduating as a Registered Nurse in May of 1981, and accomplished her life-long dream of becoming a nurse. She worked at Immanuel Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska caring for paralyzed individuals for ten years. In 1991, Betty moved to Leon, Iowa and worked at the Mount Ayr Nursing Home until retiring from nursing in 2002. She moved to Blockton, Iowa to live on her daughter, Elouise Longfellow’s farm. On the farm she was able to enjoy nature and being close to animals. Betty became a ‘snowbird’ living part of the year in Houston, Texas with her daughter, Sharon Mason. While in Texas she loved to see the bluebonnets bloom, as well as walking to the park to see “her pansies”. Betty enjoyed cooking, reading, spending time with her grandchildren, playing solitaire, watching the Food Network and Gunsmoke. Most importantly, she loved to eat chocolates, and was always willing to share.

Left to cherish Betty’s memory are her two loving daughters, Sharon Mason and husband Mike of Houston, Texas; and Elouise Longfellow and husband Alan of Blockton, Iowa; She was a wonderful grandmother to her five grandchildren and their spouses, Brad and Becky Longfellow; Heather and Ryan Birt; Dusty and Katy Longfellow; Katie and Drew Mason; Adriane and Alfy New. She was blessed to have seven great-grandchildren, Lucas, Brady, Emily, and Ruthie Longfellow, Nolan Birt, Cody and Jackson New.

Preceding Betty in death are her parents, Reverend Frank and Bessie McCallon; and two half-brothers, H.D. McCallon and F.D. McCallon.

Although we grieve, God has given her eternal peace and she is now walking with the angels. Her family always considered her to be an “Angel Among Us”. She had a big heart, kind spirit, and was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Betty was much loved and will always be remembered and missed dearly.

 

McCoy, Robert "Bob" - Funeral services for Robert (Bob) Mc Coy, age 82, of Trenton, Missouri, who passed away on Friday, August 21, 2009 at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cameron Missouri, will be held Tuesday, August 25, 2009, at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford, Iowa. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until service time. Burial with military rites will be held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.


Robert (Bob) McCoy, son of Vesper McCoy/Maddy was born and raised in Bedford and graduated from the Bedford High school.

Robert spent four years in the United States Navy at the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida where he was involved with the movie theater on base. He latter volunteered and served in the United States Air Force.

Anyone who knew Bob Mc Coy knew that he was one who knew air planes better than most folks, owning two planes up to his death. A V tail Beechcraft and a T-6 trainer.

If you wanted to talk to Bob, your conversation almost immediately was switched to airplanes.

People in Trenton were amazed when he could hear a plane taking off and tell you all about that engine just from the sound.

For the past three years Carolyn Brown, of Trenton, Mo and her husband would look after Bob because of his health

Bob spent the last five months in the Veterans Home in Cameron, Missouri

Bob is preceded in death by his mother, Vesper Maddy and Aunt, Vera Flood, both laid to rest in Bedford. Also, two cousins, Harold Hagan of Lake Wales, Florida and David Hagan of Tampa, Florida and many friends who have known Bob Mc Coy over the years

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

 

McCune, Harold Butler - Funeral services for Harold McCune, age 90 of Bedford, who died Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Saturday, April 14, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation was held Friday from 3 to 8 with the family greeting friends from 7 to 8. Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Harold Butler McCune was born July 10, 1916, in Page County, near Villisca, Iowa the son of Samuel Young McCune and Ethel (Butler) McCune. He grew up attending country schools and later attended the Villisca High School. Later the family moved to a farm southeast of Clarinda where he helped his father on the family farm. He met Pauline Glass when she would spend time with Harold’s sisters. On November 1, 1941, Pauline and Harold were united in marriage in Rockport, Missouri. In 1945, Harold was drafted into the United States Navy where he honorably served his country during World War II in the South Pacific Theatre. After his discharge in 1946, he and Pauline lived in Clarinda where Harold drove a cab and Pauline taught school. In 1950, they moved to a farm near Bedford where Harold farmed for several years, moving into Bedford in 1955. In 1951, Harold and Pauline lost a son, Allen Paul at infancy. Then in 1956, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Rebecca Ann. Harold went to work at Jack Beaver’s Dairy as a delivery driver and later worked for Lucas Feeds as a truck driver for over twenty-seven years, retiring in 1978. Harold and Pauline continued to live in Bedford after their retirement.

Harold loved to play Bingo. He enjoyed the outdoors gardening and fishing whenever he could. Harold always looked forward to vacations and had traveled around the United States, later in life Harold enjoyed vacationing with Rebecca and her family. He appreciated his cars, as long as they were Fords, and he was known to trade them every two years! When his grandchildren came along, Harold became a full-time grandpa, a position that brought him great pleasure and joy, and truly enjoyed helping his son-in-law, Craig on the farm. Harold was a 50 year member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church; a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge; along with being a member of the VFW and the John F. Hardin American Legion.

Left to cherish Harold’s memory is his loving wife of 66 years Pauline McCune of Bedford; his daughter Rebecca Ann Donaldson and husband Craig of Lenox; and two granddaughters, Deanna Donaldson of Dallas Center, Iowa; and Chelsie Zech and husband Dan of Clarinda; along with a community of friends.

Preceding Harold in death are his parents; his infant son Allen Paul; and four sisters, Marjorie Winger, Virginia Shannon, Darlene McCune and Pauline Flynn.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

McCune, Clara "Pauline" Glass - Funeral services for Pauline McCune, age 87 of Bedford and Lenox, who died Sunday, September 2, 2007, at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Thursday, September 6, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Burial was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Clara Pauline (Glass) McCune was born December 26, 1919, in Stickleyville, Virginia the daughter of James Glass and Nora Ellen (Baker) Glass. In 1924, Pauline’s family migrated to Missouri. In 1927, the family moved to southwest Iowa where Pauline spent her childhood years in Page and Taylor Counties. She experienced droughts, depressions, but also prosperous times. Her childhood memories consisted of homemade ice cream, sleigh rides and family reunions. She was taught honesty, decency and respect for the rights of others. She grew up attending the Bedford Baptist Church or a church in the area in which they lived. Pauline graduated from the Clarinda High School with the Class of 1938 and began teaching school east of Clarinda. She later attended Clarinda Junior College and Northwest Missouri State University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in 1964 and her Master’s Degree in 1972. She spent forty-six years teaching in the rural schools of Page and Taylor Counties, educating countless children throughout southwest Iowa.

Pauline met Harold McCune while spending time with his sisters. On November 1, 1941, the couple was united in marriage in Rockport, Missouri. In 1943, Harold was drafted into the United States Navy. After his discharge in 1946, the couple lived in Clarinda where Harold drove a cab and Pauline taught school. In 1950, they moved to a farm near Bedford moving into Bedford in 1955. In 1956, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Rebecca Ann. Pauline had a passion for teaching and wanted not only her students, but everyone to do well and go far. She was proud of her degrees from Northwest Missouri State University and proud to teach Junior High Math and Science in the Bedford School District. However, the most important thing in Pauline’s life was her family and the addition of her great-granddaughter Lucey. She had been a member of the Business & Professional Woman’s Club; Church Women United; Lioness Club; American Association of University Women; American Legion Auxiliary; Order of Eastern Star, having served as Past Matron; Taylor County Historical Society; Retired Teacher’s Association; Twentieth Century Club; Neighborhood Pinocle and Pitch Card Clubs. She was also a member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church.

Left to cherish Pauline’s memory is her daughter Rebecca Donaldson and husband Craig of Lenox; a sister Mary Miers of Bedford; a brother-in-law Harold Miers of Clarinda; two sister-in-laws Betty Glass of Bedford and Dorothy Glass of Moses Lake, Washington; two granddaughters Deanna Donaldson of Dallas Center, Iowa; and Chelsie Zech and husband Dan, and their daughter Lucey, of Clarinda; along with many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Pauline in death were her parents; her husband Harold in April of 2007; an infant son Allen Paul; four brothers, Henry, Palmer, Donal and Ray; and a sister Hazel.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

 

Matheny, Arthur Greene - Memorial services for Arthur Matheny, age 92, of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of Bedford, Iowa, who entered into peace Monday, January 18, 2010 at Westridge Care and Rehab Center, Clarinda, Iowa were held Friday, January 22, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa with Reverend Arthur Matheny (grandson) and Reverend Matthew Duncan officiating. Military rites provided at the service by American Legion John F. Hardin Post 164, Bedford, Iowa. Burial will be at a later date.

Arthur Matheny passed away, Monday, January 18, 2010, at Westridge Care and Rehab Center, Clarinda, Iowa.

Arthur Greene Matheny was born in Platteville, Iowa on September 23, 1917, to Marion Arthur Matheny and Caroline “Callie” Pauline (Moore) Matheny.

Art was the oldest of 5 children growing up in Platteville. After graduating High School in Blockton, Iowa, Art went to work with the CCC, building the Lake of Three Fires. In 1940, Art enlisted in the U.S. Navy. On January 25, 1942, Art was married to Arline Murial Mathewson, of West Haven, Connecticut. Art served during World War II as a bombardier in the European Theatre flying a B17. Art and Arline had 4 children: Gerald Arthur, Jan Marie, Wayne Rex, and Mary Jane.

After leaving the service in 1946, Art and Arline spent years in Connecticut, Alabama, and New Jersey, before settling in Taylor County, Iowa. Art joined the Bedford Police force in 1955. He became the Taylor County Sheriff in 1957, and served in that capacity until 1963. During that period of service, Art created the first mounted Sheriff’s Posse in the State of Iowa. In 1963, Art joined the Department of Public Safety, where he served 20 years as a Special Investigator/Enforcement Officer. Upon retirement, he rejoined the Taylor County Sheriff’s Department as a Deputy Sheriff.

Besides his passion for his family, Art had a great love of animals, raising horses, dogs, cattle, and exotic animals including monkeys, chimpanzees, and even a pet skunk. Art had a great variety of hobbies throughout his life, including hunting, golf, and walking.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Arthur and Callie Matheny; in-laws Raymond and Marie Mathewson; siblings Rex Matheny, Bonnie Collier, Marietta Yak, Glade “Sonny” Matheny; and granddaughter Cynthia Kaye Matheny.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Arline Matheny of Clarinda, Iowa; son Jerry Matheny and wife Barb of Logan, Iowa, daughter Jan Thompson and husband Tom of Bedford, Iowa, son Wayne Matheny of Omaha, Nebraska, and daughter Mary Jane Richards and husband Brad of Clarinda, Iowa; Eleven Grandchildren; Twenty Seven Great Grandchildren;sisters-in-law, Lucille Mathewson of Bedford, Iowa, Lorraine Herlinger and husband, Red of West Virginia and many other friends and relatives.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Matheny, Bernice Opal Yocum - Funeral Services for Bernice Matheny, age 78 of Bedford who died Monday, March 20, 2006 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Friday, March 24, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Platteville Cemetery. Memorials can be given in Bernice’s name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Matheny family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Bernice Opal (Yocum) Matheny was born June 9, 1927, in Elmira, Nebraska the daughter of Fred Yocum and Alice (Rittenhouse) Yocum. She grew up in the Elmira and Taylor Nebraska areas graduating from the Taylor High School with the Class of 1943. At the age of 16, during World War II, she worked at the Grand Island Ordinance Plant making ammunition. During this time Bernice married and had two children. She later met Paul Matheny playing shuffle board, and on November 14, 1952, the couple were united in marriage in Clay Center, Nebraska. Together they resided in Hastings, Nebraska and in 1957 the family moved to California. In 1966, the moved to Clearfield, Iowa so Paul could help his father. Bernice and Paul lived in Clearfield where they raised their family, moving to Bedford eight years ago. In 2002, BerniceÂ’s health declined and she entered the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center where Paul lovingly visited her daily.

Bernice loved to dance and enjoyed teaching most of her kids to dance as well. She and Paul did some square dancing, which Paul enjoyed but Bernice did not. She always said she enjoyed music with ‘a little more zip to it!’ She loved all sports and was a huge Nebraska fan from way back. Bernice had a very ‘fiesty’ personality and a zest for life. She loved being around people and was involved with her kids and their friends, helping them with their problems and being involved in their lives. Bernice was a ‘big hearted woman’ who ‘always had room for another’ to help. Her family was everything to her. She always seemed able to put other people’s needs above her own, but was always loving and supporting in all of their activities. Bernice attended the First Baptist Church in Bedford and was a member of the Bedford American Legion Auxiliary.

Left to cherish Bernice’s memory are her loving husband of 54 years, Paul Matheny of Bedford; six children, Mike Crosier and wife Kathy of LeMoore, California; Patty Orndoff and husband John of Maine; Joel Matheny and wife Marcia of Brighton, Colorado; Jim Matheny and wife Sheila of Bedford; Jerolyn Weese and husband Mike of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and Jeffery Matheny and Patty Wegner of Council Bluffs, Iowa; nineteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and many friends.

Preceding Bernice in death are her parents Fred and Alice Yocum; a son Randy at infancy; a son Jay Matheny in 1997; a brother, Stanley Yocum and a sister, Dorothy VanDiest.

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

Matheny, Joseph Gaylon "Jiggs" - Funeral services for Joseph G. Matheny, age 84, of Lenox, who died Friday, October 10, 2007, at the Ringgold County Hospital in Mount Ayr were held Monday, October 13, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Lenox. Military rites were accorded by the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 at the church. Joe was cremated following the services with interment of ashes in the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.

Joseph Gaylon “Jiggs” Matheny was born May 13, 1924, in Platteville, Iowa. He was the third of five children born to Joseph E. Matheny and Hazel (Tamerius) Matheny. Joe, better known as ‘Jiggs’, attended country school in Platteville and worked for area farmers. He faithfully served in the United States Navy during World War II as a Pharmacist Mate 1st Class in aviation medicine.

After returning from the service, he farmed with his dad in Taylor County and helped take care of his family. He also picked up milk from local farmers and later ran a Guys Potato Chip route in southwest Iowa. Joe worked in the Anaconda Copper Mine in Yerington, Nevada. When returning to Iowa, he received his certification in waste water treatment and worked in the cities of Bedford and Clearfield, Iowa as well as Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

Joe married Cathryn Campbell and together they raised their three children, Ronda, Tim and Jamie, the couple later divorced. Joe moved back to Iowa in 1980. He met and married Marilyn Beck on March 12, 1993. They enjoyed living on the farm east of Lenox, Iowa. Together they traveled to see their family and friends. They celebrated the joys of having a large blended family. Joe loved working on the farm, gardening, raising chickens, mowing the yard, cutting weeds, and starting an apple orchard. In October of 2003, they moved to Lenox where he continued gardening and raising chickens. He sold his produce at the Farmer’s Market in the Lenox Park.

Left to cherish Joe’s memory are his wife, Marilyn of Lenox; daughter, Ronda Churchill and husband Monte of Bedford; son, Tim Matheny and wife Vonda of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; daughter, Jamie Gray and husband Gary of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; stepchildren, Darwin Beck and wife Christy of Lenox; Linda Wheeler and husband Jeremy of Gravity; Dianne Jenkins and husband Stephen of Indianola; grandchildren, Zach Churchill of Orlando, Florida; Cody Churchill and wife Beth of Grimes; Ashley and Collin Matheny of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; Stevie Gray of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Carter and Meg Gray of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; Krysti McMahon and husband Trevor of Olatha, Kansas; Kady Beck of Creston; Kortney Beck of Lawrence, Kansas; James Beck of Lenox; Samantha Cosgove and husband Tony of Omaha, Nebraska; Tiana, Kelsey, Audrey and Devon Wheeler of Gravity; Allysn and Morgan Jenkins of Indianola; great-granddaughter, Adysen Churchill of Grimes; two sisters, Ardith Sickels and Mary Lou Walkup of Clearfield; a brother, Wilbur ‘Wiggs’ Matheny of Hawthorne, Nevada; a sister-in-law, Eileen Matheny of Clearfield; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Joe in death are his parents, Joseph and Hazel Matheny; a brother, Earl Matheny; brother-in-laws, Gerald Anderson, Glade Sickels and Robert Walkup; father and mother-in-law, Glen and Lola Vogel.

Joe will be missed by his entire family.
The memories that were made by Joe throughout the years will remain in our hearts forever.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

 

Mattes, Mary Louise Trivelpiece - Memorial services for Mary Mattes, age 90 of Bedford who died Thursday, December 21, 2006 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center were held Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at 19:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment of ashes was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given in Mary’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.

Mary Louise (Trivelpiece) Mattes was born September 23, 1916 in Frontier County, Nebraska the daughter of Charles Draper Trivelpiece and Edna (Adams) Trivelpiece. She grew up in the Nebraska City area, moving to the Riverton area where she attended rural schools. She attended Normal Training Classes at Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs while working as a housekeeper. Her mother’s health caused her to move back to Hamburg where she graduated from high school. In the summer she attended Peru State College and UNI. She returned to the Hamburg area where she taught at area schools. She met Adolph Mattes through a church youth group, and they corresponded with each other during World War II. When he returned from the war, the courtship started and the couple were united in marriage on June 30, 1946 in Hamburg. The couple farmed south of Sidney until they had an opportunity to be near Adolph’s brother to farm, so they moved to Taylor County where they rented Irvie Cade’s farm, later they moved to the Mercer Center area. They purchased a farm and moved just outside of Bedford in February of 1960. Together Adolph and Mary enjoyed the lifestyle that living on a farm provided them to raise their children. In 1988, Adolph passed away. Mary continued to stay on the family farm for another year before moving into the Bedford Community.

Mary was a member of the United Methodist Church for many years where she was active with the UMW. She had also been a member of the Republican Women; Farm Bureau and several neighborhood clubs. Mary was always very in tune with political events and current news. Education had always been very important to her and she enjoyed being a part of her children and grandchildren’s lives. Always an active person, Mary kept herself busy in the community and with her family. She had a very close relationship with her sister Eulalie Hodde and her sister-in-law, Marie Richards.

Left to cherish Mary’s memory are her three children, Karen Mattes of Bedford; Deb Houchin and husband Norm of Gravity; and Stan Mattes and wife Joan of Bedford; a sister-in-lawMildred Trivelpiece of California; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Mary in death are her parents; her loving husband Adolph; three brothers, Don, Leo and Joe Trivelpiece; and five sisters, Esther Carr, Vivian Leslie, Margaret Beasley, Eulalie Hodde and Cleo Bowen.

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

 

Matthews, Dorothy "Dot" Lee Seighman - Funeral services for Dorothy Matthews, age 70 of Bedford, who died Saturday, October 22, 2005 at Bergen-Mercy Hospital in Omaha were held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 26, 2005, at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Dorothy “Dot” Lee (Seighman) Matthews was born July 12, 1935, in Somerset Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania the daughter of Herbert Seighman and Martha Belle (Cowan) Seighman. She grew up on a dairy farm in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. She attended school up until the 10th grade when she started driving a milk truck for her father’s dairy. She met William Calvin Matthews at the County Fair and they were united in marriage on April 18, 1955. Together she and Calvin farmed and raised their family of three beautiful daughters in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania. Then, in 1975, the family moved to the Bedford area, where they farmed south of town. She also worked in the kitchen at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center from 1976 to 1994. Together she and Calvin continued to enjoy living on their farm south of town.

Dorothy’s family was the center of her life. Most importantly, she enjoyed being involved in their lives. She was a very loving and generous person who enjoyed crocheting and giving away her many works. Dorothy had a positive outlook on life and was always an “up” person. She often made jokes about her poor health in order to keep things positive, never failing to put other people’s needs ahead of her own. Dorothy continued to be a ‘true care giver’ once she quit working at the nursing home, taking care of many people in their homes so they could avoid their need to enter the care center. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ.

Left to cherish Dorothy’s memory are her loving husband Calvin Matthews of Bedford; three daughters Joyce Mahl and husband Bob of Council Bluffs and children, Jill and Lee; Marsha Maudlin and husband Rick of Maryville, Missouri and children Ciara, Wyatt and Paden; and Peggy Ewart and husband Billy of Bedford and children Kerra Strong and husband Zach and Zach Siefering; four brothers, Herb Seighman and wife Shirley Mae of Monongahela, Pennsylvania; Clyde Seighman of Charleroi, Pennsylvania; Phillip Seighman and wife Karen of Monongahela, Pennsylvania; and George Seighman and wife Diana of King George, Virginia; four sisters, Elizabeth Bright and husband George of Monongahela, Pennsylvania; Shirley Ann Hemmings and husband Herb of Lakeside, Arizona; Patricia Palensar and husband Emil of St. John, Arizona; and Judy Raymond and husband Bernie of Tampa, Florida; a sister-in-law, Martha Matthews of Bedford; a brother-in-law, David Matthews of Bedford; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Dorothy in death are her parents, Herbert and Martha; and two sisters, Jane Whittaker and Thressa Carr; and a brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Mary Cabeen.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

 

Mauderly, Jean Muriel King - Memorial services for Jean Mauderly, age 85 of Bedford, who died Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at Bedford Nursing & Rehab were held Saturday, March 1, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Faith Baptist Church in Bedford. Interment of ashes was held in the Guss Cemetery.

Jean Muriel (King) Mauderly was born May 22, 1922, in Stevens County, Minnesota the daughter of Frank King and Minnie (Friedrick) King. As a young child, she and her family moved to southwest Iowa, growing up in the Villisca area, graduating with the Class of 1938. She taught country school for two years before being united in marriage to Corwin Mauderly on November 28, 1940, in Maryville, Missouri. To this loving union six children were born. After Corwin was discharged from the service in 1946, the family moved to Taylor County where they farmed west of Bedford. Corwin passed away in June of 2001, and Jean moved into Bedford in 2002.

In 1967, Jean attended nursing school in Clarinda where she obtained her LPN Degree, having worked in area care facilities and had been a nurse for Dr. Jones in Bedford until his death. She enjoyed playing all types of card games with her family and friends. Jean was a great cook and her home was always open to anyone who came to visit. When younger, Corwin and Jean really enjoyed square dancing and in later years, had a passion for bowling, both in leagues and tournaments. They also enjoyed traveling, having taken many great trips together. Jean loved and enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She attended the First Baptist Church in Bedford.

Left to cherish Jean’s memory are her six children, Jerry Mauderly and wife Carolyn of Bedford; Karen Jackson of Osceola; Phyllis Traster and husband Jack of Osceola; Donna Melvin and Terry Henson of Blockton; Diane Scotton and husband Ed of Bedford; and Wade Mauderly and wife Ramah of Bedford; a sister-in-law, Arlene King of New Market; seventeen grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren, along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Jean in death are her parents; her husband Corwin in 2001; two brothers, Dale and Ross King; and two sisters, Blanche Scharff and Elsie Skelton.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Maynes, Wilma Tyler - Memorial services for Wilma Tyler Maynes, age 95, of Lenox, will be held Monday, June 29, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox, with fellowship following. Wilma died of cancer on Friday, June 26, 2009 at Vintage Park Apartments in Lenox. Interment of ashes will be at the East Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.

Wilma Eliene (Tyler) Maynes was born October 22, 1913 in rural Union County, Iowa, the daughter of Lewis Choate and Margaret (McKee) Choate. She graduated from the Creston High School with the Class of 1930. Wilma married V. Hugh Tyler in 1934. Hugh and Wilma had three sons, Duane, Alan and Paul. Hugh died in 1946. In 1963, Wilma married Joe Maynes, Sr.. Duane died in 1965, Joe died in 1974 and Alan died in 1977.

Wilma was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. She was also an active member of the Lenox Community being a long-time member of the P.E.O. Chapter FW, Order of Eastern Star and the American Legion Auxiliary. Wilma served as a cook for the Lenox Community School System for over twenty-eight years.

Wilma is survived by her son Paul Tyler and wife Eileen of Des Moines; step-son Joe Maynes and wife Lois of Lenox; step-daughter-in-law, Gwen Maynes of Lenox. Including both the Tyler and Maynes families, she is survived by scores of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Memories can be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com.

Marckmann, Minnie Winter - Funeral services for Minnie Marckmann, age 99, of Kent, who died Monday, May 1, 2006 at the Lenox Care Center will be held Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Stringtown Church. Interment will be at North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.

Minnie Marckmann was born February 7, 1907, in Minot, North Dakota the daughter of John Winter and Mary (Larens) Winter. She grew up in the Fontanelle and Greenfield areas attending rural schools. In December of 1928, she was united in marriage to Ernest Marckmann in Des Moines. The couple moved to a farm west of Kent where they were blessed with the birth of three children, Muriel, Wilma and John. Later the couple owned and operated a grocery store in Kent. Minnie continued to live in Kent even after her husband’s death. In March of 1999, her failing health forced her to move to the Lenox Care Center.

She attended the Stringtown Church and was active in various neighborhood clubs. She loved music of all kinds and enjoyed playing the piano and accordion. She also enjoyed having friends over for square dancing in her basement. Minnie was a tremendous cook who specialized in baking bread and coffee cakes. If you came to her house … you never went away hungry!

Left to cherish her memory are a daughter Wilma Sevier of Winterset; a son, John Marckmann of Marshalltown; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren and many great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Minnie in death are her parents; her husband Ernest; a daughter Muriel Lippold; a sister Alma and three grandchildren.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Minnie’s passing.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Marshall, Leonard Gene - Funeral services for Gene Marshall, age 76, of Lenox, who died Tuesday, July 3, 2007, at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning will be held Friday, July 6, 2007, at 10:00 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Visitation will be Thursday at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox from 4:00 to 7:00 with the family greeting friends from 5:00 to 7:00. Interment with military rites accorded by the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 will be held in the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.

Leonard Gene Marshall was born April 20, 1931, in Vernon County, Wisconsin, the son of Harley Marshall and Dorothy (Shore) Marshall. He grew up attending school and entered the United States Marine Corps in 1952. Gene served boot camp in California, then in North Carolina where he was a tank driver. He was honorably discharged in 1954. On April 28, 1953, he was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Bender in Ithaca, Wisconsin. In 1967, the couple moved to Iowa where Gene worked for Goldsmith Farms, the Sheridan Egg Company, Papetti’s and more recently the Sunrise Apartments, in the maintenance departments. Gene enjoyed woodworking, color posters and playing the slot machines. He also kept busy mowing yards. He truly enjoyed his grandchildren and family. Gene was a member of the Lenox American Legion and had been a member of the Lutheran Church growing up.

Left to cherish Gene’s memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Patty Marshall of Lenox; three daughters, Patricia “Pete” Marshall, Deborah Duncan and Joan Lenz, all of Lenox; four sons, Mike Marshall and wife Becky of Lenox; Bob Marshall and wife Mandy of Sharpsburg; David Marshall and wife Sandy and Richard Marshall and wife Steph, all of Lenox; twenty grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Iva Feryance, Eva Lee, and Elmina Fry, all of Wisconsin; grandmother Hilda Rundlett; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Gene in death were his parents Harley and Dorothy Marshall; two brothers, Orval and John Marshall; and a son-in-law, Gary Duncan.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.


Martin, LeRoy "Roy" - ritchie Lenox
 

Manroe, Thelma "Darlene" Moffett - Memorial services for Thelma “Darlene” Manroe, age 81 of Gravity, who died April 3, 2008 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center will be held at a later date, to be announced. Interment will be at Lenox Cemetery in Lenox, Iowa.

Thelma “Darlene” Moffett Manroe was born June 28, 1926 on a farm one mile west of Clearfield in Ringgold County, the oldest child of Lola Elberta “Neville” Moffett and James Edward Moffett. She was baptized in the Clearfield Methodist Church. She was raised in the Clearfield and Lenox area, attending school in Clearfield where she played basketball. She always looked forward to the school and seeing old friends, whom she stayed in contact with and visited as she was able.
She met Weldon “Jie” Manroe at a local establishment. They were married October 23, 1942 in Albany, Missouri. They worked for Hale’s shows, where Jie ran the merry-go-round and Darlene manned the ticket booth and ran the kiddy cars. When Jie was called to serve his country in WW II, Darlene went with him to the military bases in the states, including California and Carolina Jie was deployed to France and Germany until Germany surrendered. When Jie was deployed overseas, Darlene returned to Lenox to be with her family. They had worked out a code so she would know he was well and the general area where he was stationed. Amazingly they were cleaver enough so the letters were mostly untouched by the military sensors. Upon returning to Lenox they again worked for Hale’s shows and Jie later worked for Western Telephone as a lineman. In 1952 they moved to the Kansas City, Missouri area where Jie worked for the gas company for 30 years. When he retired they moved to Gravity. Iowa to be close to their families and friends. Jie was the love of her life.
Darlene loved her family and was the first to offer assistance to any and all who needed it. She had a great fondness for animals and had a cat most of her life. She held a particular fondness for a golden retriever “Stormy” that is a companion to a family member. She would go to visit him and would request for him to visit her at her home or the nursing home, she said she just wanted to love him, but she gave to him more that she could ever receive.
Darlene adopted her nieces and nephews as her own and loved to entertain them in her home in Sugar Creek, Missouri during summer school vacations. Her family has many fond memories of those times.
Darlene had many hobbies and was a very talented candle maker. She also did bead work and crocheted. She loved to play cards and games and visit with her family. She was a huge fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and rarely missed watching a game. She also had a fondness for music, especially big band and country western.
Left to cherish her memory are her two brothers, Bill Moffett and wife Shirley of Littleton, Colorado and Earl Moffett and wife Anna Mae of Thermal, California, sister-in-law Wanda Manroe of Kansas City, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Preceding her in death were her parents, James and Lola Moffett, Her husband Jie Manroe in 1984, her sister Delores Ambrose and her husband Jack Ambrose, brother James Edward Moffett Jr., Sister-in-law Thelma Moffett, Brother-in-law Bob Manroe and his wife Bonnie, a nephew Gary Moffett a niece Christy Manroe and a brother-in-law Charley Manroe.
Darlene lived and loved and laughed a lot and brought joy to many lives.
She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her!

Arrangements are entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

 

Mains, Dorothy Inas Safley - Funeral Services for Dorothy Mains, age 89 of Sharpsburg who died Friday, February 16, 2007 at her home in Sharpsburg were held Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Cremation followed the services with burial of ashes to be held at a later date in the Dallas Center Cemetery.

Dorothy Inas (Safley) Mains was born in rural Taylor County, Iowa on October 12, 1917, the daughter of Alford Safley and Hazel (Hensley) Safley. She grew up attending rural schools and graduated from the Bedford High School. On July 15, 1937, she was united in marriage to Weldon Mains in Tarkio, Missouri. Dorothy was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She was a cook at the Sharpsburg Community School, and also kept busy as a housekeeper for several years and did quite a bit of wallpapering. She worked at the Sheridan Egg Company in Lenox, at the Taylor County Care Facility and at Taylor Ridge, retiring in 1990. In her spare time, Dorothy enjoyed working in her flower beds and tending to her garden, where always looked forward to canning the produce to share with her family. She was a tremendous baker and cook, specializing in homemade noodles and cookies, which she was known to share with many people in the community. During the winter months, Dorothy kept busy quilting. Dorothy was always active in the Sharpsburg community, whether it was lending a hand at a community function or providing baked goods for some event, she was ‘always willing to put other people’s needs ahead of her own’, and to ‘give of herself’ in any situation.

Left to cherish Dorothy’s memory are her eight children, Gary Mains and wife Helen of Huxley, Iowa; Gene Mains and wife Connie of Sharpsburg; Glenna Alcorn and husband Ray of Westminister, Colorado; Judy Isman and J.L. Andrus of Crane, Missouri; Grover Mains and wife Mary of Clearfield; Joyce Giley and husband Jack of Conway; Jay Mains and wife April of Sharpsburg; and Jan Davidson and Kelly McDaniel of Afton; three sisters, Agnes Scherich of Bedford; Donnabelle Ernest of Bedford; and Irene Maskers of Decatur, Alabama; a daughter-in-law, Imogene Mains of Creston; twenty-one grandchildren; twenty-six great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Dorothy in death are her parents; her husband Weldon in 1988; three sons, Gail Mains in 1992; and Jerry and James Mains at infancy; a brother Ralph Safley; three sisters, Helen Henderson, Naomi Bird and Mary Ruth Ross; a grandson Scott Mains, and two great-grandchildren, Jose Estrella and Julia Young.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Martin, LeRoy Hugh - LeRoy H. Martin, age 96, of Lenox passed away on Thursday, June 19, at the Clearview Home. Memorial services were held on June 23rd at the Lenox Christian Church. Interment was held at the Brooks Cemetery. Memorials can be given in Roy’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.
LeRoy Hugh Martin was born November 6, 1911, in Carson, North Dakota to Otto and Winnifred (Owens) Martin. He attended country school in Carson, North Dakota. He came to Iowa at the age of twenty-one to find work, with all of 50 cents in his pocket! The first person he met was Boyd Roland of Corning, Boyd bought him a meal and gave him a job.
Roy was set up on a blind date with Reva Ann Freshour by her brother. Two years later, on December 7th, 1934, the couple was united in marriage in Corning, Iowa. Roy and Reva adopted two brothers, Perry and Dennis.
The couple farmed in the Sharpsburg and Lenox areas for over fifty years. He later went to work for Tote Systems in Lenox, a position he held for ten years, retiring from Totes in 1974. After his retirement he did a lot of handyman work for Denny and Judy Bunch at Bunch Hardware, and others around town. Roy was an avid gardener, and would often share his harvest. Roy had been a long-time member of the Lenox Christian Church.
Left to cherish Roy’s memory are his son, Dennis Martin of Oskaloosa, Iowa; three grandchildren, Terri Stevens and husband Troy, Michael Martin and wife Teri, Daniel Martin and fiancé Emily Haugsand; eight great-grandchildren, Joshua Rhedin, Dustin Rhedin, Amanda Rhedin, Chelsea Bolinger, Grace Stevens, Jacob Martin, Tanner Martin, Stephanie Landes; an ex daughter-in-law, Marilyn Miles, and many friends.
Preceding Roy in death are his parents; his loving wife Reva in 1997; a son, Perry Bruce; a daughter-in-law, Rhonda; two brothers, Billie and one at infancy; and five sisters, Mayme, Nellie, Frances, Nora and Luella.

Marshall, Donna Lee Gaule - Donna Lee Marshall was born March 18, 1941 to Susie Opal McNeese and Thomas Lee Gaule. She was the youngest of six children raised in Bedford, Iowa. She passed away June 16, 2009 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 68 years, 2months, and 29 days.
On June 14, 1957 she was united in marriage to Richard Allen Marshall Sr in Bedford, Iowa. They were blessed with eight children: Shirley, Rebecca, Richard Allen Jr, Michael, Katheryn, Robert, John, and Sandra.
Donna attended Bedford Community Schools. She later attended Iowa Western Community College where she earned a vocational degree in practical nursing. She worked hard for many years in nursing retiring from the Mental Health Institute in Clarinda, Iowa in 1997. She enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation and loved tending and caring for her flowers and garden every year.
Left to cherish Donna’s memory is her husband Richard Marshall Sr of Clarinda, Iowa; daughter Shirley (Ron) Johnson of Clarinda, Iowa and their children Corey, Rhonda Melissa; daughter Rebecca Nielson of Clearmont, Missouri and her children Jason and Christopher; son Richard (Deb) Marshall Jr of Clarinda, Iowa and their children Gregg, Danny, and Phillip; son, Michael Marshall of Clarinda, Iowa; daughter Katheryn (Alejandro) Merino of Portland, Oregon and her children Kimberly, Kaylee, and Ann; son Robert Marshall of Clarinda, Iowa and his children Emily, Jessica and Allison; son John (Wendy) Marshall of Nodaway, Iowa and their children Sheena and Zachary; daughter Sandra (Tim) Fenner of Littleton, Colorado and their children Joshua, Jennifer and Marshall; eleven great grandchildren; sister Helen Ridnour of Clarinda, Iowa; sister-in-law Donna Dawson of Bedford, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Opal and Tommy Gaule; brother Bill Dawson; sisters Hazel Smalley, Betty Powell and Mamie Wagoner.

Visitation will be at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa Wednesday from 6 – 8 p.m.
Funeral services will be at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa 11:00 a.m. Thursday June 18, 2009 with Interment in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials are Family Choice. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home providing arrangements.

 


McCandless, Lucille Marie Snyder - Lucille Marie McCandless, 85, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Monday, February 23, 2009, at the Golden Living Center in Cozad surrounded by her loving family.
She was born April 25, 1923, at Bedford, Iowa, to Glen Weaver and Cassie Alma (Miller) Snyder.
Lucille attended school at Bedford and graduated from Bedford High school with the class of 1940. Prior to her graduation she was untied in marriage to William McCandless on October 7, 1939, at Hiawatha, Kansas. The marriage was blessed with five children; Arlene, Carol, Judy, Don and Sharon.
Bill and Lucille moved to Lexington in 1952, where they owned and operated frontier Café. They moved on the farm in 1964. During Lucille’s working years she worked at Dyke’s Café, Wally’s Café, The Sweet Shop, Camp Comeca and cooked at the Veteran’s Memorial Club for 13 years. Lucille spent many years helping at the Grand Generation Center in Lexington. There was never a time when you went to Bill and Lucille’s home that she didn’t have a spread laid out and everyone was welcome to eat.
She loved to cook, crochet, quilt, play cars, put puzzles together, can, garden and tend to her flowers. Lucille never knew a stranger and always enjoyed family get-togethers and grandkids coming home for visits. Lucille was past member of the first United Methodist church and the royal Neighbors. Survivors include; her husband of almost 70 years; William McCandless of Lexington, Nebraska; One son: Don (Linda) McCandless of Lexington, NE; Four daughters: Arlene (Larry) Reed of Lexington, NE; Carol (Calvin) Stock of Lexington, NE; Judy (Maurice) Andres of Cozad, NE; Sharon (Michael) Gerken of Wichita, KS; one brother: Paul (Mary Lou) Snyder of Pierce, NE; Three half brothers: Harold Snyder of Sidney, IA; Leo Snyder of Washougal, Washington; Ed Snyder of Ellensburg, Washington; Four half sisters: Fern Mingus, of Lincoln, NE; Eleanor Boyle of Oberlin, KS; Donna Pitman of Bedford, IA; and Betty cook of Glenwood, IA; Fourteen grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friend.
Lucille was preceded in death by her parents and step-mother, one brother, Don, one sister, Ruth and one infant sibling.
Funeral services were held Friday, February 27, 2009 at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington with Pastor John Shields and Reverend Caroline Vickery officiating. Burial in the Robb Cemetery south of Lexington.
Memorials are suggested to the Dawson County Parent/Child Center or the Donor’s Choice. Reynolds Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences or guest book signatures maybe directed to: www.reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.
William “Bill” McCandless’ address is 75999 Hiway 21, Lexington, NE 68850.

McCalla, Herman Allen - Herman Allen McCalla, 90, of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, September 15, 2008, at the Dennis and Donna Olderf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha after a long illness. Services were held Thursday 19, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories by Rev. Brenda Ehret of the Unit Center. Interment, Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.
Survivors include his wife, Marvel; son, William McCalla, and daughter, Sharon Svoboda, both of Cedar Rapids; and grandchildren, Lori Svoboda, Lenae Grade and Dave McCalla.
Herman was born December 2, 1917, in Bedford, Iowa, to Willis and Mae McCalla. He married Marvel Chudlic in Cedar Rapids on April 5, 1957. He worked at the Water Pollution Control Plant for the City of Cedar Rapids from 1956 to 1979. He was a member of the CCC and Linn County Fish and Game Association.
Herman was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. To know him was to love him. He was not one to give up easily and now receives his final reward and rest. Herman was a gentle, compassionate man who will be missed greatly because he loved deeply.
In lieu of flowers, we asked that memorial donations be made to the Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

Million, Mary Catherine McMillin - Mary Catherine (McMillin) Million, age 88 of Essex, Iowa was born June 17, 1936 in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of Gene and Alma (Lee) McMillin. She passed away on Tuesday evening, May 1, 2007 at Jennie Edmondson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Mary attended Bedford Schools through the 11th grade. On May 18, 1953 she was married to John Million in Oskaloosa, Iowa. To this union four children were born, Steve, Sandy, David and Tom.

She was an assembly worker at the Union Carbide plant. Mary also worked for Mt. Arbor, Earl May and Henry Fields Nurseries in Shenandoah. She was an active member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagle’s. Her hobbies include; knitting and crocheting, camping, garage sales, reading books and listening to country music.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Steve in 2003; granddaughter, Alejandra Morales; brother, Marvin McMillin and a sister, Flo McMillin.

Survivors include her husband, John Million of Essex, Iowa; children, Sandy Molina and her husband Joaquin of Marshalltown, Iowa, David Million and Laura Hudson of Twentynine Palms, California, Tom Million and his wife Rita of Henderson, Iowa; Fourteen grandchildren, Ashley, Allison, Jonathan, Rikki, Dillon, Cody,. Jasmyne, Jade, Angel, Selena, Andrew, Greg, Madeline and Elizabeth; seven great grandchildren, Harley, Landen, Rikki II, Jordan, Kali, Blake and Tayquan; three sisters, Helen Coleman and her husband Bill of Gravity, Iowa, Wilma McGraw and her husband Roy of Essex, Iowa, Linda Anderson and her husband Tom of Essex, Iowa; two brothers, Norman McMillin and his wife Anna Mae of Bedford, Iowa and Paul McMillin and his wife Jo of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Roy McMillin of Shenandoah, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends.


Milligan, Harry James - Harry James Milligan, son of Lonnie Milligan and Faye Van Alstine Milligan was born June 26, 1918 in Taylor County, Iowa and passed away December 2, 2008 at the age of 90 years and five months. Jim grew up in the Guss vicinity and attended country schools there.
He entered the U.S. Army August 20, 1942 and had his basic training at Fort Robinson in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was a T5 and a member of the 12th Calvary. After basic training he boarded a troop ship on May 29, 1943 and headed for action in the Pacific. He was in Brisbane, Australia then to several island groups in the Western Pacific: Bismarck Archipelgao, New Guinea, Philippine islands of Luzon, and began ground combat on Leyte June 18, 1943. He earned a combat infantry badge. Jim served two and one-half years overseas and was discharged December 15, 1945.
Following service he worked in the family restaurant (Milligan's Cafe) in Villisca from 1945-1960 and was a Villisca school bus driver for 15 years.
In June 1959 he married Opal Quiggle Ankeny. They made their home in Villisca. He was employed by the city of Villisca for 23 years before his retirement.
He was a member of: The Villisca Fire Department for 45 years, American Legion, VFW since 1945. He served many years on the Villisca Municipal Power Plant Board of Trustees, and served on the Villisca Housing Board.
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister, and beloved wife, Opal, January 2, 1999.
He is survived by a sister, Treva Milligan of Chicago, IL, cousins and a host of friends.
Services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2008 at Wolfe Funeral Home with Rev. Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to services. Interment will be at Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire Department or the Villisca Ambulance. Wolfe Funeral Home served the family.

 
Miller, Iva "Lucile" Allen - Lucile Miller, age 85, passed away Monday, July 14, 2008 at her home at the Gateway Senior Living in Lincoln, Nebraska of heart failure. She was born Iva “Lucile” Allen on June 24, 1923 in Taylor County, Iowa, the daughter of Orval and Ruby (Glover) Allen. She graduated from Bedford, Iowa High School and later received her teaching certificate from Northwest Missouri State College in Maryville, Missouri. Lucile taught country school at Fairview near Guss in Taylor County. She was united in marriage to D. Clark Miller on November 22, 1941 in Albany, Missouri. To this union, two children were born; son, Allen, and daughter, Lana. They lived in Bedford, Iowa from the late 1940’s until 1964. She and Clark were co-owners of Miller’s Market Grocery. She also worked as a substitute teacher, as secretary for the Sheriff’s department, and later became Bedford City Clerk. They moved to Lincoln, Nebraska in September of 1964. Lucile worked for First National Bank from 1965 through 1971 and became head of the teller department. Lucile, Clark, and Lana were members of the Westminster Presbyterian Church. In the fall of 1971, Lucile and Clark moved to Red Oak, Iowa. Lucile was a very active member of the Red Oak business community. She was bookkeeper at the Powell School, worked for Houghton State Bank, for Red Oak Mayor Ray Gustafson, for Hays Accounting, and finally for the Red Oak Community School District. In early 2001, Lucile returned to Lincoln to live near her daughter, Lana. She resided at Gateway Manor Senior Living until her death. Lucile was a wonderful seamstress and cook. In Bedford, she made cakes and desserts for people, and bread and rolls for the Bedford Country Club. No matter the circumstances, Lucile always had a smile and was a beacon of light to all who knew her. She was a woman of strong faith, and was a kind, generous, and caring person, who was loved, and will surely be missed by many.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband: Clark Miller on March 19, 1984; son: Allen C. Miller and a brother: Edward James Allen. Survivors include her daughter: Lana Miller of Lincoln, Nebraska; daughter-in-law: Alice Miller of Huntley, Illinois; two grandchildren: Kelly Newsom and Gregory Miller both of Wheeling, Illinois; great grandchildren: Matthew Newsom of Seattle, Washington and Aubrey Newsom of Wheeling, Illinois; and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial services were held 11 AM Saturday, August 9, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. There were a private family burial of the cremated remains at Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Lucile’s family.
Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Miller, Dorothy "Dot" Lois - Dorothy “Dot” Lois Miller, (Smalley) 97, passed away peacefully on March 81, 2009 in Zion, IL.
Dorothy was born on December 30th, 1911 in Trenton, Nebraska and graduated from Bedford High School in Bedford, Iowa in the Spring of 1929, Upon relocating to the Zion area in 1943 she enjoyed a career at Purcell’s A&P and retired from National Tea, the regions largest grocery chain at that time.
Survivors and their spouses: siblings Thomas and Rosalie Smalley of Santa Maria, CA; Martha and Robert Hendee of Tucson, AZ; children Richard and Annette Miller of Armory, MS; Sharron and John Thorn of Wadsworth, IL; grandchildren Renee and Kenneth Sartin of Hampton, GA; Randall and Sue Miller of Texas; Richard and Robin Miller of Pleasant Prarie, WI; Roger and Charlotte Miller of Salem, WI; Mark and Nadine Thorn of Zion, IL; Derek and Jennifer Thorn of San Diego, CA; Lana and Mike Clark of Zion, IL; Bobbie Miller of Amory, MS, and Maddie Miller of Amory, MS; and other great and great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her sisters and spouses, Darlene and William Garfield; Merna and Vernon Barnes, and Irene and Virgil Livingston; David Smalley; parents George and Pearl (Harrison) Smalley; son George L. Miller, and former husband, George E. Miller.
A Celebration of Life service were held on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL, with Dorothy’s Pastor Les Martin of Lakeview Church officiating. Interment will be private.
Dorothy had requested any memorials be made to the Zion-Benton Public Library 2400 Gabriel Avenue Zion, IL 60099 or Lakeview Church 1821 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL 60099.

 


Moore, Edward Dean - Edward Dean Moore, 84, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2009 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. Visitation were from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, January 14, at Ankeny Funeral Home. Masonic service was held January 14, conducted by Rev. Dwight R. Hunnell on behalf of the Albia, Iowa Astor Lodge #505. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m., Thursday, January 15, 2009 at Ankeny Funeral Home and burial with military honors were at 3 p.m. at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa.
Edward was born September 5, 1924 to Edward and Marie Moore in Gravity, Iowa. He was a salesman for Iowa Packing Company. Edward was an elder at the First Christian Church in Albia, and was a member of Ankeny Christian Church after moving to Polk City. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Albia, and received his 50 year certificate. Edward loved to golf, barbeque, and converse with the guys at the meat counter at the grocery store because he could relate.
Survivors include his wife, Myrtle Moore of Polk City; daughter, Carole Jensen of Glendale, AZ; son, William (Margaret) Moore of Mason City; Myrtle’s children, Shelly (Steve) Thompson of California, and Robert Bauer of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Christine, Daniel, David, Scott, Michael, Holly, Kelli, Jason, Jeremy, and Nathaniel; and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Kenneth Moore.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Ankeny Christian Church, 2506 SW 3rd St. Ankeny, IA 50023 or to the family in memory of Edward.

Moore, Pearl A. Simmons - Pearl A. Moore, 82, of Creston, died April 20, 2009 at Afton Care Center.
Private services were held Wednesday, April 22, at Graceland Cemetery Chapel. The Rev. Rick Titus officiated. Burial was in Graceland Cemetery.
Memorials were established in her name. On line condolences may be left at www.powesfh.com.
Pearl A. (Simmons) Moore, daughter of Irene (Reed) and Miles Henry Simmons, was born Nov. 22, 1926, in Conway.
Pearl was educated in Conway area school sand also attended Creston Schools.
On January 22, 1944, Pearl married Darrell LaVern “Buster” Moore in Creston.
Pearl settled in Shenandoah before making her home in Creston. She worked of Lambly’s Grocery store, was clerk at J.C. Penney and homemaker.
Survivors include her daughters, Donna (husband Ron) Edwards of Creston and Linda (husband Dale) Jeter of Ankeny; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren , half-sister Julia Hinshaw of Colorado Springs, CO; nieces, nephews and cousins.
Pearl was preceded in death by her parents, husband in 2002, son Allen Moore, sisters, brothers and great-grandson Jade Perez.


 


Muir, Robert M. - Robert M. Muir, age 81, St. Cloud, MN died Monday, October 12, 2009 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Home, Sauk Rapids, MN.
Funeral services were held Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Grace United Methodist Church, St. Cloud, MN. Burial was in North Star Cemetery, St. Cloud, MN.
Robert was born March 20, 1928 in Chicago, IL to Peter Alexander and Clara (Crispin) Muir. He married Kathleen Lucas on June 22, 1952 in Bedford, IA. Robert served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Benner. He was a professor at Iowa State University for 20 years, employed by Honeywell in Plymouth, MN for 10 years and MIT Research Group in Massachusetts from 1991 until his retirement in December of 1995.
Robert was a member of BETA Fraternity at Iowa State and a member of Grace United Methodist Church. He was one of the first high school athletes in the country to beak the two minute barrier in the half mile run. Robert was also active and competitive in golf, racquetball and cross country skiing. He was a very gifted individual who always put family first.
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen Muir of St. Cloud, MN; son, Jon (Cathy) Muir of St. Cloud, MN; daughter, Mary Kay (Chip) Anderson of Omaha, NE; and five grandchildren, Ben, Jonathan and Michael Anderson and Grayson and Thomas Muir. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Don Muir. Memorials are preferred

Mothershead, Leora Caroline Hein - Leora Caroline Mothershead was born November 28, 1918 in Lowden, Iowa, the daughter of John Carl and Eleanor Marie (Bunge) Hein. She passed away on Tuesday morning, January 13, 2009 at the Bryan-LGH East Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska at the age of 89 years, 1 month and 16 days.

Leora grew up in the Lowden area and attended school through the eighth grade at the Lutheran Parochial School in Lowden. On February 4, 1947, she was united in marriage to Noble Harmon Mothershead in Lowden, Iowa. The couple lived in Lowden until 1961 when they moved to the farm north of Bedford. This union was blessed with a son, Noble Tommy.

Leora worked as a telephone operator for a short time. She then helped Noble with the farm. She was an active member of the Bedford United Methodist Church. She read her bible and faithfully did daily devotions. The love of her life was her three grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Noble in January of 2008.

Survivors include her son, Noble Tommy Mothershead of Bedford, Iowa; her grandchildren, Noble Tommy Mothershead, II of Bedford, Iowa, Kandi Mothershead and her fiancé Jeremy Wichman of Bedford, Iowa, Brandi Mothershead of Bedford, Iowa; a sister, Eunice Morden and her husband George of Lowden, Iowa; two brothers, Harvey Hein of Lowden, Iowa and Gary Hein and his wife Faith of Marion, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends.


Mothershead, Noble Harmon - Noble Harmon Mothershead was born August 26, 1916 south of Bedford in Taylor County, Iowa, the son of Harmon Raymond and Eva Mae (Bayes) Mothershead. He passed away on Thursday morning, January 31, 2008 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center in Bedford, Iowa.

Noble grew up south of Bedford and attended school in Hopkins, Missouri. He served in the United States Army from 1942 – 1945 during WW II. On February 4, 1947 he was united in marriage to Leora Caroline Hein in Lowden, Iowa. To this union one son was born, Noble Tommy. Noble was a farmer all of his life. He loved to work on his farm. He also enjoyed breaking and riding horses.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Harold Mothershead and Ollen Mothershead; two sisters, Ruby Blake and Dema Dowling.

Survivors include his wife, Leora Mothershead of Bedford; his son, Noble Tommy Mothershead of Bedford; three grandchildren, Noble Tommy Mothershead II, of Bedford, Kandi Mothershead and her friend Jeremy Wichman of Bedford, Iowa, Brandi Mothershead of Bedford; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.