Obituaries
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com
 
 

[SNYDER, MARY CORNELIA “NEALIE”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 15, 1900, [p. 1]

Nealie Snyder

Nealie had been sick for a long time, and with a view of bettering her physical condition she was taken by her mother, Mrs. Sue Snyder, and uncle, Ham Snyder, to Kansas City and given in charge of a specialist. While there she was tenderly nursed by her mother and cousin, Miss Grace Slanker, and the very best of medical aid was secured and everything done for her that mortal science could perform, but all to no avail. She was there about two months. Last Friday evening she was brought back to her home, reaching Bedford on the night train. Saturday morning at about 10 o’clock her sweet spirit winged its rapid flight to the God who gave it, and her poor, pain racked body knew suffering no more. All through her late sickness, Nealie maintained a calm demeanor, and uttered no complaint, seeming perfectly resigned to whatever God had in store for her. The funeral services were held in the M. E. church Monday at 11 o’clock, conducted by Elder J. W. Walters, after which her little body was laid to rest in Fairview cemetery. Her widowed mother and other relatives and friends have the sympathy of all in their bereavement.

[SNYDER, WILLIAM A.]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 10, 1896, p. 4

Death of W. A. Snyder

Died, at his residence four miles southeast of Bedford, on Friday, Sept. 4, 1896, at 12 o’clock midnight, W. [illiam] A. Snyder aged about 69 years. Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. M. C. Waddell at the home on Sunday, Sept. 6, at 2 o’clock p. m.

Interment will be made in the Bowers cemetery. The deceased died with inflammation of the stomach after an illness of only about forty-eight hours.

W. A. Snyder was among the oldest of the early settlers of Taylor County. He came to Iowa from Virginia in 1854 and in 1856 located in Taylor County where he has since lived. He was a man of modest bearing and of good intelligence; he was a gentleman of the old school, always polite and courteous and few men had warmer friends. He was fair and prompt in all his dealings and his friends feel that they suffer a great loss in his death. His cheerful presence will be sadly missed from the Free Press office, where he was a frequent visitor and where every one had a pleasant word for “Uncle Billy,” as he was affectionately nicknamed by the proprietors and employees of the office.

 He had been a member of the Methodist church for more than thirty years, and died firm in the faith that “Earth has no Sorrows that Heaven cannot Heal.”

[SNYDER, WILLIAM A.]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, September 10, 1896
(Monday's Daily) The funeral of W. [illiam] A. Snyder occurred at the home at 2 o'clock Sunday, Sept. 5, and was perhaps one of the largest funerals ever held in Clayton township. The number in attendance was estimated at between 400 and 500 people. The funeral procession was about one mile in length and contained 104 vehicles by actual count. The services at the house were informal but of a very impressive character and were conducted by Rev. M. C. Waddell. The floral offerings were profuse, the casket being almost covered with fragrant flowers. The frequent expression of respect and sympathy one heard from those present for the deceased, attested to the high esteem in which he was held by his neighbors.

 

[STONE, VIRGIL]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, August 6, 1986, p. 6

Virgil Stone of Spokane, Wash. died Tuesday, July 29, at the age of 81, after a lingering illness.

He was the brother of Earl Stone and Marie Park of Bedford.

[SCOTT, ANNA WELLS]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, July 12, 1989

ANNA WELLS SCOTT

Funeral services were held for Anna Wells Scott on Saturday, July 8, 1989 at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Rev. Ted DeHass as the minister. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Anna Wells Scott, daughter of Jacob S. Wells and Jennie Cavender Wells was born at home in Mason Township, Taylor county March 15, 1902 and departed this life on July 5, 1989 at Bedford Manor, Bedford, Iowa at the age of 87 years, three months and 20 days.     

She lived in Mason Township, Taylor County and grew to maturity there where she attended the public school and the Baptist Church.

On June 28, 1924 she was united in marriage to Basil Scott at Clarinda, Iowa and they lived on a farm all of their lives except for Anna who spent about eight years in the nursing home because of ill health.

To this union two children were born: Lowell and Lois Anne.

Anna was a housewife and mother working in club and church work as long as her health permitted.

She was preceded in death by    her    parents, husband, daughter, brothers Ray   and Ivan, sisters Mae Holland and Gladys Wells.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Lowell; brother, Elvin Wells and wife, Berniece; nieces   and   nephews, cousins and friends.

Anna was a member of the Bedford Baptist Church for 64 years, having been baptized on January 18, 1925. She worked in the circles at the church and she was a member of the DOC Club.

[SCOTT, LOIS ANNE]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 13, 1948, [p. 1]

Basil Scott Infant Died Last Week

Lois Anne Scott, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Basil Scott, was born June 21, 1947 and passed away Thursday, May 6, 1948, at the age of 10 months and 15 days.

Besides the parents, she leaves one brother, Lowell; and two grandparents, Mrs. Hattie Scott of Gravity and J. [acob] S. [eymour] Wells of New Market.

Lois Anne has been an invalid most of her life and will be greatly missed by all who have cared for her.

The funeral services, conducted by Rev. E. L. Fields, were held Saturday morning at 10 o’clock at the Shum Funeral Home. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

[SEVERS, VERDA EULA GRAY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 4, 1965, [p. 1]

Mrs. Leon Severs Rites Wed.

Funeral services for Mrs. Leon C. (Verda) Severs, 73, long time Bedford resident, were held Wednesday, Nov. 3, at the Bedford Methodist Church with Rev. J. Milton Kinney and Carl Cummings officiating. Mrs. Severs died Nov. 1 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Mrs. Severs is survived by her husband, Leon; a son, G. M. Severs and wife of Houston, Texas; a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Mildred) Stacy and husband of Bedford; and three grandchildren.

[SEVERS, VERDA EULA GRAY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 11, 1965, p. 6

Final Rites Held Nov. 3 For Mrs. Leon Severs

Funeral services for Mrs. Leon C. (Verda) Severs, 73, long time Bedford Resident, held November 3 at the Bedford Methodist Church, were conducted by Rev. J. Milton Kinney and Carl Cummings. Mrs. Severs died Nov. 1, 1965 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Included in the services was the following obituary.

Verda Eula Gray was born to parents, William T. [heodore] and Florence Gray on Dec. 15, 1891, at Pickering, Mo.

She was married to Leon C. [harles] Severs at Barnard, Mo., on April 10, 1910. To this union were born a son, Glen Maurice and a daughter, Mildred Louise.

She is survived by her husband and the two children, three grandchildren, Glen Severs, Jr., Julia and Jane Stacy; a sister, Mrs. John C. Johnson; and a niece, Mrs. John W. Mehornay.

Mrs. Severs was dedicated member and staunch worker in the Bedford Methodist Church.

[SHIMER, GUS CLAY]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 30, 1991

GUS C. SHIMER

Funeral services for Gus C. Shimer were held Wednesday, Jan. 23, 1991 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating.

Military honors were conducted by Bedford American Legion Post NO. 164. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.

Gus C. [lay] Shimer, son of Albert Sanford Shimer and Minnie Hygiene Ketrow Shimer, was born at Clearfield, Iowa July 24, 1919 and departed this life January 20, 1991 at Bedford Manor in Bedford, Iowa, at the age of 71 years, five months and 26 days.

When he was a lad, his parents moved to the Conway, Iowa community where he attended the Conway School.

On June 27, 1942 he was united in marriage to Rowena Louise Wyckoff at Maryville, Mo. They have lived all of their married life in Bedford, Iowa.

To this union three children were born: Barbara Louise, Betty Mardella and Michael Edwin.

He was self-employed in the trucking business and was employed by the Vogt Seed Company then by the J.L. Houston Company of Hopkins, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Ardella Mae Britnell.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Rowena of the home; the three children: Barbara Louise Rupp and her husband Wayland of Bedford, Iowa; Betty Mardella Rupp and her husband Wesley of Clarinda, Iowa; and Michael Edwin Shimer and his wife Bonnie of Bedford, Iowa; five grandchildren: Terry Rupp, Tony Rupp and his wife Rhonda; Rick Rupp, Neil Shimer and Jaclyn Shimer; a brother, Alvin Leo Shimer of Aurora, Colo, and his wife Dee and family; a brother-in-law, Donald Wyckoff and his wife Olive and family of Des Moines, Iowa.

Gus served his country during World War II, being inducted into the 1534 Army Air Force Base Unit October 1942 and served in the Asian Pacific in the South West area until he was discharged in January 1946.

He had been in failing health the past few years but was able to maintain a cheerful attitude as he shared his daily life with loved ones and friends who will miss him very much.

[SHIMER, GUS CLAY]
Blockton News (Blockton, Iowa), Thursday, December 12, 1918
Gus C. Shimer, formerly of near Conway and at one time a candidate for a county office, passed away at his home east of Lenox a few days since. Pneumonia was the cause of his death.

[SNYDER, CARL ALEXIS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 24, 1963, p 5

Carl Snyder, 76, Rites Wed.

Funeral services for Carl Snyder, 76, long time Bedford resident, were held yesterday (Wed. Jan. 23) in the Christian Church here with Rev. Ivo Randels officiating. Mr. Snyder died last Saturday morning at the home of his son, Harold J. Snyder, in Diagonal.

He is survived by four sons and one daughter.

[Snyder, Carl Alexis]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday    January 24, 1963     p. 5

Carl Snyder, 76, Rites Wed.

Funeral services for Carl Snyder, 76, long time Bedford resident, were held yesterday (Wed., Jan. 23) in the Christian Church here with Rev. Ivo Randels officiating. Mr. Snyder died last Saturday morning at the home of his son, Harold J. Snyder, in Diagonal.

He is survived by four sons and one daughter.

[Snyder, Carl Alexis]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday    January 31, 1963    [p. 1]

Carl Snyder, 76, Rites Jan. 23

Funeral services for Carl Snyder, 76, held in the Bedford Christian Church January 23, were conducted by Rev. Ivo Randels. He passed away Saturday, Jan. 19, in his sleep at the home of his son, Harold J. in Diagonal, Ia. He had been a resident of Bedford nearly all his life. Interment was in Fairview cemetery in Bedford.

Included in the service was the following obituary:

Carl Alexis Snyder was born December 3, 1886 in Bedford, Iowa, son of [David] Addison and Mellie [Sebille] Snyder. When he was eight years of age his father passed away. Carl grew to manhood in the Bedford community and attended the Bedford schools. On February 27, 1909, he was united in marriage to Florence Keith of Bedford, who preceded him in death in 1950. To them were born seven children, four sons and three daughters.

He was a member of the Christian church for over 63 years. Since 1917 he had been a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, serving as Chief and Assistant Chief for 1950 -1960, and other offices in the Department. He was a member of Taylor Lodge A.F.& A.M.

Survivors are four sons, Lex of Winterset, Ia.; Harold J. of Diagonal, Ia.; Carl Jr. of Jacksonville, Fla.; Donald of Lemoore, Calif.; a daughter, Mrs. Roy (Dorothy) Nash of Parnell, Mo.; a sister, Miss Myrtle Snyder; a half-brother, Paul Morris of Bedford; 18 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren, other relatives and a host of friends.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his daughters, Mrs. Glen (Doris) Croy and Mrs. Adam (Anith) Luchslnger, his father, his mother, and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. A. K. Morris, two brothers, Jesse and Babe.

He followed his profession as a contractor for many years. He retired three years ago because of ill health and moved to Diagonal and made his home with his son Harold J. and wife, Irene.

 

[SNYDER, IRENE LOIS COVER]

Bedford Times-Press, April 2012

A famous writer once said "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give". If that is true, then Irene made a great life. Irene was a most giving person.

Irene Lois Cover was born on May 8, 1920 in Drinkwater, Saskatchewan, Canada. She was the second child of Daniel Cover and Carrie Snyder. Her sister Helen (Franck) preceded her in death. After returning from Canada, they came to Iowa and lived in Bedford from 1925 to 1946.

Irene went to Bedford Community School and graduated with her high school diploma and teaching certificate. She taught school for one year then went to work with her lifelong partner and husband, Jay, in various businesses in Diagonal, Iowa.

Irene and Jay were high school sweethearts and were married on 18 February 1939. Two children were born to this union, Liane Kay and Ronald Jay. Liane married Tom Austin and reside in Des Moines, Iowa. They have three children, Steve, Roni and Chad. Ron married Bille Jean Rusk, reside in Brooklyn, Iowa and have two children, Dan and Nathan. Irene enjoyed her five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. This year Irene and Jay celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary.

Irene was an avid gardener and her greatest love was to cook for her family, as well as, everyone else. There was always an extra chair for anyone at her table.

Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you wake in the morning hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circling flight. I am the soft starlight at night. Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there, I do not sleep.

Services for Irene Snyder were held on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at the United Church of Diagonal in Diagonal, Iowa with burial at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa. Memorials can be direct to the will go to the Lions Club, Fire Dept and Community Building, all in Diagonal. Arrangements were entrusted to Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home of Diagonal.

[SCHERICH, CLYDE EPLER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 21, 1963, p. 5

Final Rites for Clyde Scherich

Funeral services for Clyde E. Scherich, veteran of Spanish-American War and long-time Taylor County resident, held November 15 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Rev. John D. Kerr. Mr. Scherich died November 13 at the Armstrong Nursing Home at the age of 85 years, four months and 19 days. Bedford American Legion conducted military honors at Fairview cemetery.

Included in the services was the following obituary.

Clyde E. [pler] Scherich, only son of Isaac W. [olf] and Mary K. [eziah] (Dorsey) Scherich, was born at Bedford, Iowa, June 25, 1878.

He grew to manhood and attended school in Bedford. He enlisted in Co. I, 51std Regiment Iowa Volunteers at the age of 19 and was sent to Philippine Insurrection. Mr. Scherich was the last of the Spanish American War Veterans in Taylor County.

As a young man he united with the Presbyterian Church, where he still had his membership.

On January 2, 1907, he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Shepherd and to this union two sons were born, Dean and Donald.

The Scherichs lived near Enid, Oklahoma for three years, then moved back to Iowa where they lived on a farm in Jackson township until 1945 when they moved to Bedford, where they since resided.

Mr. Scherich was preceded in death by his son, Dean, and his father and mother, and his only sister, Audrey Price.

He leaves with memories, his wife, Martha; son, Donald and wife; one granddaughter, Virginia Sanders who lives in Omaha, Nebr.; also five nieces and two nephews and many friends.

He was a kind and loving husband and father, and a good neighbor, and will be greatly missed by all.

Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Thurston of Osceola, Ia. attended the services for Clyde Scherich. Thurston is one of five remaining veterans of the 51st Iowa Volunteer Infantry regiment. The others are: A. G. Smith, Mathias, Texas; L. B. Carter, Oakland, Calif.; Charles Neely, Los Angeles, Calif.; and H. A. Spangler, Portland, Ore.

[SCHERICH, DEAN ORSEN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 21, 1936, [p. 1]

Dean Scherich, 28, Died Tuesday Eve

Dean Scherich, 28, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. [lyde] E. Scherich of the Forest Grove community, died at his home about 9:30 o’clock Tuesday evening, May 19, after taking a quantity of lye.

The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home this afternoon, conducted by Rev. Robert Boshen. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

Dean Orsen Scherich, son of Clyde E. Scherich and Martha Shepherd Scherich, was born near Enid, Okla., Feb. 29, 1908. When two years old he moved with his parents to Iowa, locating on a farm six miles southeast of Bedford, and had resided in this community since. He attended the Forest Grove School and the Bedford high school.

He is survived by his parents and one brother, Donald Scherich, at home.

[SCHERICH, DEAN ORSEN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 28, 1936, [p. 1]

Attend Funeral

Among those from out of town who were here to attend the funeral services for Dean Scherich, included his grandmother, Mrs. Eva Shepherd of Shenandoah; his aunt, Mrs. Nan Braley and three children, Eldon, Betty Nan, and Bobby, and Mrs. Erma Bacon of Shenandoah; Mrs. Ethel McKennon of Clarinda; and Mrs. John Helfer of Mount Ayr.

[SCHERICH, DONALD ISAAC]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 15, 1982

Last Rites Held In Bedford For Donald Scherich

Funeral services for Donald I. Scherich, 72, of Bedford, were held July 10 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings, Mr. Scherich died July 8, 1982 in Colonial Manor Nursing Home in Corning. Bedford American Legion Post #164 presented military honors with interment at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.

Donald I. [saac] Scherich, son of Clyde E. Scherich and Martha Shepherd Scherich, was born near Bedford, Iowa March 5, 1910.

He grew to maturity in the Forrest Grove community in Jackson Township, Taylor County, Iowa where he attended the public school and the Forrest Grove Church.

On November 27, 1941 he was united in marriage to Agnes Safley at Saint Joseph, Missouri. To them one daughter, Virginia, was born.

Donald was inducted into the U.S. Army April 25, 1942 and served with the 430 Signal Company in the South Philippines and New Guinea; one year three months and six days of Foreign Service. He was discharged November 3, 1945.

He was a farmer in the Forrest Grove community all of his active years until  ill health caused his retirement and they moved to Bedford in 1973.

Donald, Agnes and daughter, Virginia, were baptized and became members of the Presbyterian Church in Bedford April 8, 1956. He was a member of the American Legion and had a life membership in Veterans of Foreign Wars. He had served on the Taylor County Soldiers Relief Board and V.F.W. Service Office for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Dean.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Agnes of the home, daughter Virginia and her husband Lorace Sanders, of Chimney "Rock, Colo, and three grandchildren: Lana Sue, Jessie and Jason; an aunt, Lilly Shepherd, other relatives and friends.

He was a kind and considerate loved one and will be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him.    

[SCHERICH, MARTHA SHEPHERD]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 5, 1970, p. 5

Martha Scherich Rites Held Here January 31

Funeral services for Mrs. Clyde (Martha) Scherich, 82, of Bedford, held January 31 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Rev. John D. Kerr. Mrs. Scherich died at her home here January 28, 1970. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Martha Shephard [Shepherd], daughter of David Orson Shephard [Shepherd] and Eva Deatherage Shephard was born in Polk Township, Taylor County on March 1, 1887.

She was united in the Baptist church as a young woman. In December of 1953 she joined the Bedford Presbyterian Church.

She grew to womanhood in Taylor County and was united in marriage to Clyde E. Scherich on January 2, 1907. To this union two sons were born, Dean and Donald.

They lived near Enid, Oklahoma for three years and then returned to Iowa in 1910 where they settled on a farm in Jackson Township where they lived until December 5, 1945 at which time they moved into Bedford.

Mrs. Scherich was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde; son, Dean; mother and father; and one brother, Edgar Shephard.

She leaves with memories her son, Donald and his wife Agnes; one granddaughter, Virginia Sanders and husband; and one great granddaughter, who live in Omaha, Nebr.; two sisters, Mary Klotzman of Denver, Colo., and Nancy Braley of Shenandoah, Iowa; a host of nephews, nieces and many friends.

She was a kind and loving mother and a good neighbor and will be greatly missed by all.

[STONE, IRENE GRACE MILLER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 15, 1984

Final Rites Held In Bedford For Irene Stone, 84

Funeral services for Mrs. Earl J. (Irene) Stone, 84, of Bedford, held March 11 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here, were conducted by Rev. Marcia Smith Wood. Mrs. Stone died March 7, 1984 in Bedford Manor nursing home where she had resided the past month. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Grace Irene Miller, daughter of John Duncan and Leannah Burk Miller, was born February 27, 1900, in Hopkins, Nodaway County, Missouri.

On August 7, 1918, she was married to Earl Jennings Stone at Maryville, Missouri.

She has resided in Bedford the past 45 years, with the exception of several years spent in Brush, Colorado and Clarkston and Wenatchee, Washington.

Irene and Earl celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary August 7, 1983. They had no children of their own, but have been a mother and father to their niece, Margaret Ann Henderson Thompson, who came to live in their home in August, 1944.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers William, Francis, Lawrence, and James, and sisters Pearl and Nellie, and several nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her husband Earl, retired chiropractor; their niece, Mrs. Margaret Ann Thompson, and her husband, Don and their children: Nana Tribolet and husband Larry; Steve Thompson and wife Karla; Kerri Nicholas and husband Alan; Lynda, Ronald, and Douglas; grandnieces and nephews: Christopher, J onathan, and Jennifer Tribolet, Jasmine Thompson, and Kandra Nicholas; two sisters: Mrs. Elvira Leise of Tacoma, Washington and daughters Pauline Lund and Ruth Reshky, and Mrs. Nora Greer of Clarkston, Washington and son Ralph; sisters-in-law: Mrs. Marie Park  of Bedford and heir family; Mary Ellen (Mrs. Gene) Norton, Mrs. Norma Hensley and Harold Park; Mrs. Corrine Squire of Shenandoah and daughter Mary Lou ( Mrs. Steve) Burns; a brother-in-law, Virgil Stone of Opportunity, Washington, and daughter Ruth McBryne; a host of nieces and nephews.

Irene was very active in the Bedford Christian Church, which later became the United Christian-Presbyterian Church. She served as Grand Noble of the Rebekah Lodge; was active in the Red Cross, Twentieth Century Club, and Vineland Chapter #84 Order of Eastern Star in Clarkston, Washington.

Mrs. Stone had been in declining health for several years, giving up her home in October when she and her husband made their home with their niece and husband, Don and Margaret and her family, bringing joy to them all, until it was necessary for her to go to the nursing home.

 

[SANDERS, MCCLELLAN KEITH “MACK”]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 21, 2004

McClellan Sanders

 McClellan Keith Sanders was born April 11, 1915 to Guy and Winifred (Hannon) Sanders in Gay Township, Taylor County, Iowa. He passed away Friday evening, April 16, 2004 at St. Francis Hospital, Maryville, Mo.

He owned and operated Sanders Garage, an automotive repair shop, for 32 years in Blockton, Ia. On Oct 29, 1949 he married Veneta Bentley. They had three children: Cyndie, Randy, and Alice.

He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945 as an Aviation Machinist Mate Second Class.

Mack is survived by his wife, Veneta of the home; children Cyndie Hook and friend Michael Foley Sr. of Winthrop, Maine, Randy Sanders and wife Kim of Bedford, Alice Carson and husband Mark of Northfield, Minn; brothers, Dale Sanders and wife Iva of Bedford, Bill Sanders and wife Marjorie of Norwalk, Ia; four grandchildren; three nieces and their families; and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents and two infant sisters.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 20, at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, with Rev. Bob Thompson officiating. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery with military rites accorded by John F Hardin American Legion Post 164. A memorial fund is being established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Bedford was in charge of arrangements.

[SIEFERING, DARRELL DEAN]

Bedford Times-Press, February 10, 1993

DARRELL DEAN SIEFERING

Darrell Dean Siefering, son of Lawrence and Mildred Johnson Siefering was born on a farm near Coin, Iowa on November 18, 1936 and departed this life on February 3, 1993 at Omaha, Neb. at the age of 56 years, two months and 16 days.

In 1941 he moved to the family farm near Shambaugh, Iowa and grew to maturity. He attended country school through the eighth grade and College Springs High School through the 11th grade.

Darrell was baptized into his     Christian     faith     on December 13, 1936 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at Yorktown, Iowa. He was confirmed in his faith on May 13, 1951 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Clarinda, Iowa.

He joined the Navy in February 1956. He had his basic training at Great Lakes, Chicago. He was stationed at Atlantic City, N.J. for 10 months and then at Naval Air Station in Naples, Italy for three years. He came home in January, 1960 and was honorably discharged in February 1962.

On October 24, i960 he was united in marriage to Janet Sunderman at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs. They lived and farmed near Coin, Braddyville and New Market, Iowa until 1977 when they moved to their present home at 1205 Court Street in Bedford. To this union three children were born, Ronald Eugene, Rodney Dean, and Rhonda Jean.

Darrell worked for Bedford Building Supply for 12 years and then started Siefering Plumbing in 1985.

Darrell was involved in many activities in the community. He was associate member of Taylor County Pork Producers. He was a nine-year 4-H leader and founder of the Bedford Downtowners 4-H Club. He served on the Taylor County Extension Council, a member of the farm advisory board for Senator Tom Harkin, was an elder at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, was a 12 year member of the Bedford Fire Department and served two terms as Bedford City Councilman.

Darrell loved to garden, took great pride in his vegetable and cactus garden. He liked to travel, especially to South Dakota and eastern hills of   Oklahoma    and   western Arkansas. The summer of 1992 was especially enjoyable for Darrell when he along with Janet and Rhonda took the grandchildren to South Dakota. Darrell really loved his grandchildren and that is why this was such a special trip.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Delores Pederson.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Janet, son Ronald and wife Lori of Lavista Neb., son Rod and wife Peggy of Bedford, Iowa, daughter Rhonda, brother Loren (Butch) Siefering and wife Karen of Villisca, Iowa, two grandchildren, Kerra Lynn and Zachery Dean. Other survivors include: aunt Jayne and uncle Dale Johnston; four nephews, Brian, Jim, Charles and Ray; five nieces, Kirsten, Terri, Vicki, Tammy and Sonya; mother-in-law, Mary Sunderman; brother-in-law, Martin A. (Marty) Pedersen and wife Sharon; also a sister-in-law, Mary Virginia (Ginger) McCalla and husband Edward (Eddie); two cousins, Marvin and Gloria and a whole host of friends all of whom were special to him.

Darrell's earthly remains were laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa with full military rights immediately following the funeral service at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home.

[SMITH, ROSS ELDRIDGE]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 6, 1955, [p. 1]

Ross Smith Dies In Clarinda

Ross Smith, 65, a former resident of Conway and a barber in Clarinda for 26 years who had continued to operate his own shop even though ill for several years. He was born at Albany, Mo. He had been taken home from Municipal hospital New Year’s morning to watch the Rose Bowl game on television, turned suddenly worse and died Sunday at 2 a. m.

Mr. Smith’s chief hobby was music and he played a baritone horn in bands at Clarinda, including a number of years in the Municipal band. His son, Max E. Smith of Bettendorf, is also an accomplished musician and taught music before entering the insurance business.

Surviving are his wife, the former Sue Burrows of Conway; the son; three brothers, Orville H. Smith and Cleo Smith of Creston, Wayne Smith of Villisca; two sisters, Mrs. Mary Parisho of Braddyville, Mrs. Faunta [Fonta]  Longfellow of Omaha.

Funeral services were conducted Wednesday at 2 p. m. at the Walker funeral Home, with Rev. J. Lester Greenwood officiating. Burial in Gravity cemetery.

[SPENCER, ANNA LEE TUCKER]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 30, 1988

ANNA LEE SPENCER

Anna Lee Spencer, daughter of William Tucker and Agnes Box, was born at Burlington Jct., Mo. October 24, 1928 and departed this life March 18, 1988, at the Baptist Memorial Hospital, Kansas City, Mo. at the age of 59.

She lived in Kansas City, Mo. with her son Ed, and daughter-in-law Carol, and grew to maturity in Taylor County, in Bedford, Iowa, where she graduated from high school and was a member of the Christian Church.

On Feb. 6, 1949 she was united in marriage to Edward Spencer, Jr. and they lived in Taylor County until 1977. To this union four children were born: Vicki Spencer, Liberty, Mo., Patricia Smith, Kansas City, Mo., Ed Spencer and Rick Spencer, Kansas City, Mo.

She was preceded in death by both parents, her husband, and her brother Wm. David Tucker. Left to cherish her memory are her four children, three sisters - Mildred Bland, Kansas City, Ks., Irene Battle, Kansas City, Mo., and Helen Leighton, Stockton, Mo.; seven grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and one brother-in-law.

She had been an LPN at Clarinda Iowa Municipal Hospital and was a member of the Bedford Christian Church and Rebecca Lodge.

[SPRAGUE, BRADLEY ALLEN “BRAD”]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 23, 1997

Bradley Allen Sprague

Bradley Allen Sprague, the oldest son of Richard and Pamela Lock Sprague, was born March 28, 1974 in Clarinda.

Brad was a life long resident of Taylor County attending the New Market School and Bedford Community Schools, graduating in 1992. While he was in high school Brad played football as a freshman in Clarinda and participated in all Bedford sports activities. He was also very active in 4-H. Brad was the recipient of numerous academic and sports awards. He then attended Buena Vista College in Storm Lake where he was a member of an Academic Honor Fraternity and graduated with Academic Honors in 1996. While attending college he was a member of the Buena Vista Football Team. Upon college graduation Brad moved to Des Moines where he was employed by the FDIC as a bank examiner.

He is survived by his parents, Richard and Pamela Sprague; brother, Bruce; girlfriend, Sharon Hawhee all of Bedford; grandmother Marjorie Lock of Gravity; grandparents Bud and Betty Sprague of Bedford; great grandfather, Floyd Sprague, Sr., of Clarinda; uncle Terry and wife Mary Jane Sprague, and their children, Kristen, Steven and Justin of Audubon; uncle Dan Lock of Gravity; cousin Tammy and husband Craig Johanes and their children Sawyer and Stephanie of Villisca; and cousins Troy and Emily Lock of St. Paul, MN.

Brad is preceded in death by his grandfather, Kenneth Lock.

Brad was a loving and faithful son. He touched the lives of many and will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved him. A memorial fund has been established through the Bedford Booster Club and 4-H.

Funeral services were held by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford on Saturday, April 19, 1997 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery.

[SPRAGUE, FLOYD LEE “BUD”, JR.]

Bedford Times-Press, June, 2008

Funeral services for Bud Sprague, age 80 of Bedford, who died Monday, June 2, 2008 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Thursday, June 5, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be directed to the Taylor County 4-H or the Taylor County Soil & Water Association District. 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.

Floyd Lee Sprague, Jr., was born 26, 1928, on a farm in Taylor County, Iowa the son of Floyd Lee Sprague and Edna Pearl (Daley) Sprague. He grew up attending rural Siam Country School, graduating with the Class of 1946 from the new Market High School. On June 25, 1950 he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Betty Lou Maley. To this loving family two sons were born, Terry Lee and Richard Allen.

Bud was a lifetime farmer and steward of the land in Taylor County. He stared farming south of Siam shortly after his marriage to Betty, moving to a farm in Benton Township in 1959, where they lived until 1997 when they moved into Bedford. The couple truly enjoyed farming and the lifestyle it provided their family. Tilling the soil, practicing conservation and being a true steward of the land always provided them with great satisfaction as they watched their farming operation grow through their children and grandchildren.

Bud was a farmer through and through. It was who he was. He was always passionate about his family and grandkids. He enjoyed raising his kids and being active with them in all aspects of their lives. On the side, Bud worked at the Clarinda Livestock Auction, weighing the livestock for auctions for many years. After his retirement, he and Betty enjoyed spending their winters in Arizona. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, being inducted in 1951. He was also a member of the Taylor County Farm Bureau, the Bedford Saddle Club and the Church of Christ, having been baptized on December 21, 1939.

Left to cherish Bud’s memory are his loving wife of 58 years, Betty Sprague of Bedford; two sons, Dr. Terry Lee Sprague and wife Mary Jane of Audubon, Iowa; and Rick Sprague and wife Pam of Bedford; four grandchildren, Bruce Sprague and wife Jill of Syracuse, Nebraska; Kristen Lucas and husband Jon of Rock Port, Missouri; Steven Sprague of Audubon, Iowa; and Justin Sprague, stationed with the United States Army in Afghanistan; five great-grandchildren, Colton and Mayson Sprague; and Ethan, Caleb and Ryan Lucas; a sister, Kathleen Teeters and husband Dean of New Market; a sister-in-law, Lois Marie Marino and husband Rol of Brea, California; along with many other nieces, nephews, family members and a community of friends.

Preceding Bud in death were his parents, Floyd and Edna Sprague; a grandson, Bradley Allen Sprague; and a brother, Larry Daniel Sprague.

 

 

 

 

 

[STARLING, RICHARD OSCAR]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 4, 1897, p. 3

An Honored Mason Dead

Richard O. Starling, Who Was One of the Brightest and Best Known Members of the Fraternity, Passed Away March 2

The Funeral Services

Died, at his home in Bedford, Iowa on Tuesday, March 2, 1897, at 6:15 a. m., Richard O. [scar] Sterling [Starling], aged 66 years, 5 months and 3 days.

Funeral services were held at the residence at 2 o’clock p. m., Wednesday, March 3, conducted by Rev. Horace Siberell, under the direction of Taylor lodge No. 158 A. F. and A. M., of which lodge the deceased was an honored member. Interment was made at Fairview.

There was a large attendance of the Masonic fraternity at the services. Brethren from the Siam, Conway, New Market, Gravity and Blockton lodges and transient brethren from other lodges joined in the solemn ritual services, and paid the last tribute of respect to the memory of the deceased.

Dr. W. F. Randolph, during the services, read the following biographical sketch of Brother Starling:

Richard O. [scar] Starling was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 29, 1830. He became a citizen of Iowa in September 1859, over 37 years ago.

His first wife was Mrs. Nancy Baker who died about the year 1869 or 70. By this marriage is left five children, four daughters and one son, all of whom have been with him during the last days of his illness.

He was married July 2, 1871, to Miss Sarah Craig, whose ministering care during the last months of his sickness has done much to alleviate his suffering.

Bro. Starling was made a Mason in Taylor Lodge A. F. & A. M., taking the first degree October 21, 1863, the second November 25, ’63 and received the Master Mason degree January 20, 1864. He has been a member of this Lodge ever since and has repeatedly been installed in its principal offices.

Bro. Starling was a charter member of Triangle Chapter, of R. A. M., having previously taken the capitular degrees in the Chapter at Clarinda. He has several times served as its presiding officer. He also received the Knights Templar degrees in the DePain’s Commandery at Oskaloosa.

Bro. Starling in his family relations has been a considerate and loving husband and a kind and indulgent parent.

In his Masonic relations he has always been a marked character, not only in his connections with Taylor Lodge, but all the lodges of this and adjoining counties, literally “ready at all times to go on foot and out of his way to assist a brother, or a lodge of Masons.”

Though our brother may not have possessed those qualifications which enables a man to accumulate wealth yet he did possess those characteristics in an eminent degree without which the man who accumulates a fortune becomes an injury rather than a benefit to society. One of the most marked traits of his character may be fairly expressed by the divine words, “Such as I have, give I unto thee.”

Dr. W. F. Randolph acted as Master and went through the ceremony in a most impressive manner. The farewell address to the dead was particularly impressive and many of those who stood around the open grave could not repress the falling tear, as the words spoken brought vividly to remembrance that they had often heard him who now laid cold and silent in his narrow home, pronounce the same words over the grave of other Craftsmen, who long since “had passed their work up for inspection by the Grand Master of the Universe.”

The following roster of the Masons having a part in the ceremony were furnished us by Secretary F. B. Webb. [List follows]

[SHAFAR, NAOMI ELLEN HEDRICK HYPES]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 22, 1970, p. 7

Mrs. Fay Shafar Final Rites Held Here Monday

Funeral services for Mrs. Fay (Naomi) Shafar, 80, of Bedford were held Mon., Jan. 19 at the Bedford Presbyterian church with Rev. John D. Kerr officiating. Mrs. Shafar died January 15, 1970 at Pearl Terrace Manor here. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Naomi Ellen Hedrick was born at Wick, Iowa on October 13, 1883. She lived the first 35 years of her life in Warren County, Iowa.

On March 9, 1918, Naomi Hedrick Hypes was united in marriage to Fay Shafar. She had two children, George Hypes, Armstrong, Iowa; Roy Hypes, Mackinaw, Illinois. Fay had three children, Mrs. Emil Ferkins (Leola), Emmetsburg, Iowa; Bob Shafar, Fort Dodge, Iowa and Mrs. Howard Smith (Mildred), Rapid City, South Dakota. To this union were born seven children: Richard Shafar, deceased; Mrs. Darrell Dalton (Frances), Des Moines, Iowa; Mrs. DeWayne Priest, (Bette), Emmetsburg, Iowa; Mrs. Clarence Utter, (Mary) Leesburg, Florida; Mrs. Bill Dorrel, (Hazel) Santa Ana, Calif.; Mrs. Robert Marshall, (Ina Lou), Bedford, Iowa, and Edward (Ned) Shafar, Newton, Kansas.

From the fall of 1918 to 1935 they lived in Palo Alto County, Iowa. The remainder of her life was lived in the Bedford community.

Naomi has been affiliated with the Presbyterian Church for 50 years, joining the Bedford Presbyterian Church in 1944.

She leaves with memories her husband, Fay, 11 children; 44 grandchildren; 57 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge, Eastern Star and Legion Auxiliary.

She spent many years as a 4-H leader and County Committee woman.

Naomi loved her family and they always came before her own feelings or comfort. She was always willing to postpone anything she wanted to do to help her family, friends and neighbors.

She will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her and loved her.

[SHAFAR, RICHARD DEAN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 30, 1944, [p. 1]

Dies In Belgium

T5 Richard D. [ean] Shafar died in Belgium on Nov. 15, according to a message received in Bedford Wednesday morning by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Faye Shafar, who reside west of town. The telegram came from the office of the Adjutant General in Washington, D. C. and stated that a letter would follow. The parents received a letter last week from Richard, written on Nov. 8, telling them he was in Luxemburg. Richard is a graduate of the Bedford High School with the class of ’38. He was sent overseas in August.

[SHAFAR, RICHARD DEAN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 30, 1947, [p. 1]

Body of Dick Shafar Being Brought Back

Accompanied by individual military escort, the remains of the late T/5 Richard D. Shafar, which have arrived at the port of New York, will be delivered to the final destination in the near future, the American Graves Registration Distribution Center, Kansas City Quartermaster Depot, has informed the next of kin, Mr. and Mrs. Fay L. Shafar of Bedford.

When the remains of the above named deceased are ready to be forwarded to the final destination from the Distribution Center at Kansas City, the funeral director will be notified by telegram as to routine, scheduled time of arrival and name of the military escort.

The military escort accompanying each remains will be from the same branch of the service of the deceased and of comparable rank or grade.

[SNYDER, WILLIAM ERNEST “BABE”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 28, 1960, p. 10

Ernest ‘Babe’ Snyder Died in Denver Mon.

Ernest “Babe” Snyder, 68, a former resident of Bedford, died in Denver, Colo., Monday, April 25. The body is being brought to Bedford by Boyd Novinger of the Shum-Novinger Funeral Service and funeral services are pending. Mrs. Paul Morris accompanied Mr. Novinger to Denver.

He is survived by a sister, Miss Myrtle Snyder of Bedford and by two brothers, Carl Snyder of Diagonal and Paul Morris of Bedford.

[SNYDER, WILLIAM ERNEST “BABE”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 12, 1960, p. 9

Earnest Snyder Rites At Graveside Friday

Graveside services for Earnest Snyder, a former Bedford resident, were held in Fairview cemetery Friday afternoon, April 29. Rev. Anthony Blankers officiated.

Earnest “Babe” Snyder was born in Bedford, Iowa, on August 13, 1891, and died after a long illness at his home in Denver, Colorado, April 25, 1960, at the age of 68 years, eight months, 12 days.

He was the youngest son of Addison and Mellie Snyder.

He was a sign painter by trade and for several years was employed by General Outdoor Advertising.

He was a member of the Bedford Christian church until he moved to Denver in 1918.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his stepfather, A. K. Morris; his wife, Mrs. Inez Snyder; and by a brother, Jesse Snyder.

He is survived by a sister, Miss Myrtle Snyder of Bedford; a brother, Carl Snyder of Bedford; a half-brother, Paul Morris of Bedford; two nieces, eight nephews, several grand nieces and nephews.

[STARLIN, CHARLES HENRY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 22, 1948, p. 4

Blockton Man Is Buried In Fairview

Funeral services for Charles H. Starlin were held at the Methodist Church in Blockton Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Mr. McEleney. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery in Bedford.

Charles Henry Starlin was born at Grant, Iowa, eldest son of James and Maria Starlin, on Dec. 24, 1885, and died at Oakland, Iowa, Friday, Jan. 16 at the age of 62 years and 23 days.

He was married to Orpha Wilson on March 9 [2], 1933 at Maryville, Mo. To them one son was born, Gerald Wayne Starlin.

He spent his early boyhood at Grant, Iowa, where he received his education. He moved away in 1918 and resided at various places, and finally settled in Blockton.

Mr. Starlin was an industrious, hard-working man and a good neighbor.

He is survived by his wife and son, two stepchildren, Donald Wilson of Council Bluffs, and Mrs. Wesley Palmer of Auburn, Nebraska; three brothers, George of Grant, Lester of Kent, and Earl of Griswold.