Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
[AKERS, HAROLD ARTHUR] Bedford Times-Press, February 25, 1982 Harold Akers, 70 Last Rites Were Held February 9 Funeral services for Harold Arthur Akers, 70, of Shenandoah, formerly of Taylor County, were held February 9 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings. Mr. Akers died February 6, 1982 in Garden View Care Center in Shenandoah. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Harold Arthur Akers, son of Chester and Eva May Kirby Akers, was born in Holt Township, Taylor County near Gravity, Iowa, May 13, 1911. He grew to maturity in the Taylor County area where he attended the Spread Eagle School and with his family the Christian Church. He was united in marriage to Hazel Frost and to this union one son, Gayle N. Akers, was born. Harold was engaged in farming most of his life in Taylor County until he moved to Shenandoah, Iowa a few years ago where he was employed by the nursery until ill health caused him to retire. His parents preceded him in death. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Gayle, and his wife, Donna; one granddaughter, Anita, of Colorado Springs, Colo.; two brothers: Marvin Akers and his wife, Carmelle, of Davis City, Iowa and Melvin Akers and his wife, Lucile, of Pueblo, Colo.; two sisters: Arlene Lewis and her husband, Donald, of Clarinda, Iowa, and Mildred Hummel and her husband, Al, of Phoenix, Arizona; nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives and friends. His family and friends will remember him as a kind and considerate loved one and he will be sadly missed by those who knew him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 2, 1978, p. 6 Dean Armstrong Final Rites Held February 28 Funeral services for Dean William Armstrong, 72, Gravity, were held February 28 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Pastor Ross Keyt officiating. Mr. Armstrong died February 25, 1978 in Clarinda, Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Dean William Armstrong, son of William Martin and Mary Francis Armstrong, was born on a farm near Auburn, Nebraska October 26, 1905. He lived near Auburn, Nebraska and grew to maturity where he attended the public schools. On June 4, 1937 he was united in marriage to Mary Elizabeth Russell at Brownsville [Brownville], Nebraska. They lived four years on farms near New Market, Iowa. In 1941 they moved to their present farm northwest of Gravity. To this union three children were born: Margaret Lyn, Edward Dean and Don William. He engaged in farming his entire life. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Lucy, and a brother Lee. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Mary Elizabeth; his daughter Margaret Heffron, of Iowa City; his son, Edward, Rochester, New York; son, Don, Council Bluffs, Iowa; a sister, Deva Armstrong, Rock Island, Illinois; a brother, Shelby Armstrong, Milan, Missouri; five grandchildren, Nick and Peter Armstrong, Heather and Holly Armstrong and Matthew Heffron. He was a member of Oak Hill Christian Church, Taylor County Extension Council, Farmers Home Administration Board, Taylor County Board of Education, a 4-H leader, and received an honorary 4-H membership. [ARMSTRONG, MARY ELIZABETH RUSSELL] Memorial services for Mary Armstrong, age 95, of Corning, who died Friday, July 16, 2010, at Vintage Park Assisted Living Apartments in Lenox were held Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Visitation was from 10:30 until service time Saturday morning. Private family interment of ashes was held prior to the services at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials may be given in Mary’s name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning. Mary Elizabeth (Russell) Armstrong, the fourth child of Harry and Mabel Russell, was born November 14, 1914, in South Auburn, Nebraska. She graduated from Brownville High School in Nebraska and attended Peru State College. She then taught in a rural Nebraska school for four years. She married Dean W. Armstrong on June 4, 1937, in Brownville. They had three children — Margaret, Ed and Don. Mary and Dean farmed east of New Market for four years before buying their farm northwest of Gravity in 1941. They farmed there until Dean’s death in 1978. Mary worked as the switchboard operator at National Farmers Organization in Corning for 26 years. She read the paper daily and was interested in all current events. She took great pleasure in her flowers and loved to travel, both in the United States and internationally. Staying in touch with her scattered family was important to her, and she was especially proud of her grandchildren’s accomplishments. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dean, her brothers, Harold and Howard Russell, and her sisters, Ruby Owens, Lucille Hicks, Dorothy Albers and Neva Mae Walker. She is survived by her daughter Margaret and husband Mark Heffron of Iowa City, Iowa; son Ed and wife Cheri Armstrong of Loveland, Colorado; son Don and wife Nancy Armstrong of Longmont, Colorado; grandchildren Nick Armstrong and wife Amanda of Fort Collins, Colorado; Heather Armstrong of Ashland, Oregon; Holly Armstrong and husband David Stern of Fife, Washington; Matt Heffron and wife Renee of Seattle, Washington; Peter Armstrong and fiancée Melissa Straten of Denver, Colorado; great grandchildren Adrian, Tony, Savanna and Josh Armstrong of Fort Collins, Colorado; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, March 4, 1913, p. 4 George Barnett a former resident of the county, died at his residence in Santa Monica, Calif. last week. [BARNETT, GEORGE] [BIERS, MATTHEW JOSEPH “MATT,” II] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 21, 1962 [p. 1] Matt Biers Dies Tues. M. J. Biers, 55, local Oldsmobile dealer and well-known businessman of Bedford, died at Municipal hospital, Clarinda, shortly before noon Tues., June 19. He had been taken to the hospital by ambulance about midnight the previous day. Mr. Biers is survived by his wife and two sons, Bob and Matt; also by two brothers, Art and Clarence and three sisters, Miss Emma Biers, Mrs. Richard Cavell and Mrs. Harve Rapp. Funeral services will be held at 2 p. m. today (Thurs.) at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home at 708 Madison St. with Rev. Ivo Randels officiating. Burial will be at Fairview cemetery. [BIERS, MATTHEW JOSEPH “MATT,” II] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 28, 1962, p. 7 Matt Biers Rites Held Thursday Last rites for Matt Biers of Bedford were held at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Home on Madison Street, Thursday afternoon, June 21. Rev. Ivo G. Randels officiated. Burial in Fairview cemetery. Matthew Joseph Biers was born Sept. 11, 1906 and passed away June 19, 1962 at the age of 55 years, nine months, eight days. He was born in Mendota, Ill., and spent some years in Chicago, being a resident of Bedford the past 19 years. He was married to Violet Fuller May 8, 1926 and to this union two sons were born, Robert and Matthew III, both at home. He is survived by his widow and two sons; three sisters and two brothers: Mrs. Matilda Rapp of Arlington Heights, Ill., Arthur Biers of Mendota, Ill., Mrs. Clara Cavell of Sycamore, Ill., Miss Emma Biers of Sycamore, Ill., Clarence Biers of Sarasota, Florida; six nephews and nieces. He was possessed of uncommon courage, going to work almost every day although a victim of multiple sclerosis 24 years. He was kind and thoughtful to his family, neighbors and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 27, 1972, p. 2 Rites Held Here April 20 for Mrs. Matt Biers Funeral services for Mrs. Matthew J. (Violet) Biers II of Bedford, were held April 20 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here with Carl Cummings officiating. Mrs. Biers died at the Municipal Hospital in Clarinda April 18, 1972. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery. Violet Fuller Biers, daughter of Bert M. Fuller and Ida Foster Fuller, was born August 8, 1908 at Cobden, Illinois. She was united in marriage to Matthew J. [oseph] Biers II and to them were born two sons, Robert Matthew and Matthew Joseph Biers, III. They resided in Chicago, Illinois, prior to moving to Bedford in 1943 where her husband was engaged in the new and used car sales and service business. Her husband died June 19, 1962, and she was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her two sons; two half-brothers, Richard Corzine of Florissant, Missouri and Donald Corzine of Jonesboro, Illinois; other relatives and friends. She will be sadly missed by those that knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, April, 2015 Scott Brown, age 54, of Clarinda, Iowa, entered into peace Monday, April 6, 2015, at his residence in Clarinda, Iowa. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 10, 2015 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa with Jeffrey Cummings officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2015 at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa and also 10:00-11:00 Friday prior to the service at Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery. Memorials may be given in his name. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa. Scott Randall Brown, born March 23, 1961 was chosen by Leland and Bonnie (Polk) Brown to be their son on July 28, 1961. He died unexpectedly at his home in Clarinda, Iowa, on April 6, 2015 at the age [of] 54 years and two weeks. Scott was baptized and confirmed in the Bedford United Methodist Church, and attended church camps. He was a member of the Boy Scouts and 4-H. Scott enjoyed family vacations as he was growing up, especially Disney World, The Black Hills, The Ozarks and fishing trips to Minnesota. He attended school in Bedford where he participated in speech, vocal and instrumental music and sports. Scott graduated with the class of 1979. He attended college for a short time at Mountain View Baptist College in Didsbury, Alberta, Canada. On April 13, 1982, he joined the United States Army, spending over two and a half years in Germany. He was discharged in 1986. Scott was married to Amy Graham on August 6, 1988, and Jessica Nicole Brown, the treasure of his life, was born of this union January 4, 1994. . Scott graduated from Driving Academy Incorporated, a truck driving program based in Lamoni, Iowa. Following that he was an over the road trucker. Scott also worked as a car salesman at Cardinal Auto for several years as well as working at Foster Amusements. On January 15, 2014, Scott was severely injured in an automobile accident west of Shenandoah, Iowa. After several weeks at Creighton Hospital in Omaha, he was transferred to the Grand Island, Nebraska Veterans’ Hospital, and dismissed from there on June 20, 2014. Family and friends cared for him until December 20, 2014, when he moved to his own home in Clarinda. Scott received many acts of kindness from numerous people, and was very grateful for these generous deeds. Scott always had a smile on his face when surrounded by friends and family. Survivors include his daughter, Jessica Brown and former wife, Amy Brown of Columbus, Nebraska; parents, Leland and Bonnie Brown of Clarinda; sister, Sheryl Brown of Seattle, Washington; brother, Steven Brown of Sidney, Iowa. He is also survived by other relatives and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 5, 2003 RONALD BRUMFIELD - Ronald Brumfield, 66, of Waukee passed away Saturday, October 25, 2003 of respiratory failure at Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines. Funeral services were held Thursday at Waukee Christian Church. Interment was held Thursday, at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Ronald will be greatly missed by his wife, Naomi of Waukee; his daughters, Sandy (Dave) Lynch, Cyndi Brumfield, and Rhonda Brumfield all of Des Moines, and Denise Brumfield of Woodward; seven grandchildren Lindsay, Susanne, Christopher, Rosa, Therasa, Anthony, and Alex; his sister Willa (Paul) King of Des Moines; and his sister-in-law Doris Brumfield of Beaumont, TX. He was preceded in death by his mother Anna, his father Robert, and his brothers Elgin and Elvin. Ronald retired from Armstrong Rubber and Tire in 1987. In his retirement, he worked for Bill Doran Wholesale Flowers. He was a member of Waukee Baptist Church and enjoyed woodcraft, blue grass music, and fishing. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 24, 1908, p. 5 Beulah Burch – Beulah, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rolla Burch, died at St. Joseph, Missouri, Monday. Her body was brought home on the evening train, and the funeral held at the home of L.[evi] P. [reston] Burch on Wednesday, conducted by Rev. McMaster; interment at Fairview. Little Beulah was two years old last August and was in every way a most [lovable?] child. Some time ago she became afflicted with a tumor of some peculiar kind, growing within her body. Her condition grew worse rapidly, and some days ago it became apparent that her end was near. An operation seemed to offer some [hope?] and in their last extremity the distracted and heart broken parents took her to the hospital. The hope, however, proved vain. Beulah’s little body was too frail to [stand?] the ordeal, and she passed away even before the operation was begun. Death at all times is sorrowful, and leaves broken hearts in its wake, but this case seems particularly sad, and in their poignant grief, the parents have the sincere sympathy of all. [BURCH, BEULAH A.] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 24, 1908, p. 8 On Monday evening, at the hospital at St. Joe, Mo., occurred the death of little Beulah May Burch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. [olla] B. [oyd] Burch. The remains were brought back to Bedford and the funeral was held at the home of the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. L. [evi] P. [reston] Burch, in North Bedford on Wednesday at 10 o’clock a. m., conducted by Rev. McMasters, of the Baptist church. The interment was in Fairview cemetery. The child was 2 years, 1 month and 11 days old. She had been suffering for some time with tuberculosis of the stomach, and was taken to St. Joe by her parents with the hope that an operation might save the little one’s life, but it was not to be. The grief stricken parents and relatives have the sympathy of all. Bedford Times-Republican, Friday, June 30, 1905, p. 3 Death of A Little Babe Its Life Was Ended Ere It Scarce Begun—Buried at Fairview The infant child of Rolla Burch, who lives in Ross Township, two miles south of the city, died Wednesday and was buried at Fairview Thursday. Dr. Jones conducted the services. The little one was only eleven days old; it had scarcely felt the first chilling breeze of this life when it was called to go, and its pure white soul went soaring back to him who gave it. Those who have never been called to give up their little child can scarce realize how inexpressibly dear a little life can become---how much it can grow into the hearts of its mother and father and grandparents in a few short days. But those who “have passed under the rod” know well that age makes not the slightest difference. To the loving heart of a parent, be the child a mere mite of humanity whose life is scarce a fortnight’s span, or be that son or daughter grown to maturity, the love is the same, and heart-breaking anguish, sorrow unexpressible comes to the bereaved ones when death calls and that loved one must go. The sympathy of all the community is with Mr. and Mrs. Burch, and with the little one’s grandparents whose grief was no less poignant, and a large number of sympathetic friends gathered at the home to attend the funeral, and followed the little one to the tomb. [BURKS, CATHARINE ELIZABETH STEPHENS] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, October 23, 1930, [p. 1] Mrs. Dan Burks Passes Away Was Spending The Winter With Daughter, Hortense Word has been received in Bedford from Curtis C. Burks of Jefferson City, Mo., that his mother, Mrs. Dan Burks, had passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Otto Kachman in Arlington, Washington. The body will be brought to Bedford for burial, but no arrangements have been made at this time. [BURKS, CATHARINE ELIZABETH STEPHENS] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, October 30, 1930, p. 5 Mrs. Dan Burks Catharine Elizabeth Stephens was born in Mercer County, Ill., June 12, 1863, the daughter of William Jacob and Eliza Stephens, and died at the home of her daughter in Arlington, Wash., October 20th, 1930, at the age of 67 years, 4 months and 8 days. She was married to Daniel J. [ames] Burks in 1891 [1893] and resided in Hopkins, Mo., for a short time after which they moved to Bedford, Iowa, where they resided until the spring of 1920. They then moved to Bates County, Missouri, and lived until the fall of 1928, when they moved to Kansas City, Mo. After the death of her husband in May of this year she went to the home of her daughter, where she was residing at the time of her death. She leaves to mourn her death, two sons, Glen S. and Curtis C., of Kansas City, Mo., one daughter, Hortense Kachman of Arlington, Wash., three sisters, Mrs. Mary Tomlinson of Shenandoah, Mrs. A. B. Barr of Albany, Mo., and Mrs. F. B. Pennington of Villisca, together with a host of friends in the communities in which she had resided. Mrs. Burks was a devoted wife and mother, a good neighbor and a loyal friend---always ready to help others in time of trouble and sorrow and whose words of sympathy and acts of kindness at such times will be long remembered by people who knew her during her life in this community. The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 2:00 o’clock Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. M. R. Talley. Interment was made in the Fairview cemetery. [BUSSE, ELEANOR LOVITT MONICO] Bedford Times-Press, January 2015 Eleanor O. (Lovitt) Monico-Busse was born on June 24, 1923, the daughter of Glenn and Hazel (Morley) Lovitt. She was a Bedford High School graduate. Elenor passed away on January 12, 2015 at the age of 91, in Omaha, Nebraska. Eleanor was preceded in death by her husbands Herman Monico & Clarence Busse, Grandchildren Lindsay & Clint Monico; She is survived by her son Michael Monico; daughter Rebecca Monico; grandchildren: Scott, Kevin, Mark, Josh, Jessica, Nathan & Connor; 8 great grandchildren; many other relatives & friends. Graveside services were held at Thursday, January 15, 2015 at 11 a.m. at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Visitation was held Wednesday, January 14, 2015 from 5 – 7:00 p.m. at Braman Mortuary (72 St. Chapel), Omaha, Nebraska. To leave a condolence, visit www.bramanmortuary.com. Braman Mortuary of Omaha, Nebraska was in charge of the arrangements. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 27, 1962, p. 5 H. A. Clayton Rites Dec. 18 Services for Harry A. Clayton held December 18, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Burial was in Fairview cemetery in Bedford. Harry Antoin Clayton, oldest child of Alva J. [efferson] and Syddena Duncan Clayton, was born February 26, 1901, on the old Clayton homestead near Siam, in Taylor County, Iowa, and died December 13, 1962 in the Inter-Community Hospital at Fairfield, Calif., at the age of 61 years, 9 months, 17 days. Harry was united in marriage with Eula Miller on June 27, 1928, and to this union was born one son, Harry David, now a student in Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. Harry spent the major part of his life farming in the Siam community with the exception of the last three and one-half years, which were spent in Fairfield, California. He jointed the Siam Methodist church in the early years of his life and practiced Christianity by adding a bit of laugher, always speaking favorably of friends, and being a devoted husband and a very loving father. Harry was handicapped during the latter years of his life with a severe lung condition, which caused the complications resulting in his death. He was preceded in death by his father and mother and leaves to mourn his passing his wife and son, one sister, Mrs. Glenn Stewart (Opal) and one brother, Eldon Clayton, both of Hopkins, Mo., nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 18, 1971 [p. 1] Carl D. Cox, 18 Killed Sunday in One-Car Crash Carl D. [ean] Cox, 18, of New Market was killed in a one-car accident Sunday morning. His body was discovered by his sister, Mrs. Bill (Nancy) Ogle at 8:30 Sunday morning. He was found during a search when he failed to return home from a party in New Market Saturday night. The New Market senior was lying off the road south of New Market, just a mile from his home in Mason Township. The car had apparently rolled over on him after he was thrown out. He is presumed to have been killed instantly by the accident. He was the son of Phyllis and Wayne Cox. He was active in vocational agriculture department of high school. His brother, John Cox, farms near the home place and sisters are Mrs. Ogle of Blockton and Ruth Ann Cox of Omaha. His grandmother is Mrs. Guy Drennen of Omaha. To accommodate those wishing to pay respects the New Market school was used for the funeral Wednesday conducted by Carl Cummings [COX, CARL DEAN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 25, 1971 Carl D. Cox, 18 Rites Held in New Market Funeral services for Carl Dean Cox, 18, of New Market were held February 17 at the New Market School conducted by Carl Cummings. Carl died following a car accident near his home in Mason Township in Taylor County on February 14, 1971. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Carl Dean Cox, son of Wayne C. [arl] and Phyllis Drennen Cox, was born October 16, 1952 at Clarinda, Iowa. Carl was a member of the senior class of the New Market Community High School, where he was active in and enjoyed the various school activities. He was a member of the Future Farmers of America of the Vocational Agriculture Department, having held several offices in the organization as he had a particular interest in FFA. He is survived by his parents; a brother, John Edward Cox, and his wife Karen; two sisters, Ruth Ann Cox and Nancy Ogle and her husband, William Ogle; grandmother, Mrs. Opal P. Drennen, of Omaha, Nebraska; one niece, and one nephew; uncles; aunts; cousins; other relatives and many; friends and acquaintances. Carl was a kind and considerate son and brother. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 9, 1985 John Edward Cox services held Last rites for John Edward Cox, 36, New Market, were held here. Mr. Cox died April 28, 1985 in Clarinda, Iowa. John Edward Cox, son of Wayne Carl Cox and Phyllis N. Drennen Cox was born at Maryville, Mo. March 22, 1949. He lived all his life in Mason Township in Taylor County, and attended a country school until it consolidated with the New Market School. As a young boy he attended the Baptist Church in Bedford. On October 29, 1968 he was united in marriage to Karen Wallace at the New Market Methodist church and they lived and farmed on the family farm where he grew up. To this union two children were born, a daughter Martina Ann, and a son Ray Edward. He was preceded in death by his brother Carl Dean Cox, a niece, Tammy Ogle, his grandparents: John and Lola Cox and Guy and Opal Drennen. Left to cherish his memory are, his wife, Karen, parents Wayne and Phyllis, his children Martina and Ray, sisters Ruth Lund and her husband Glenn Jr., Nancy Ogle and husband Bill, seven nieces and two nephews. In May 1968 he left to serve his country for two years in Vietnam and he was a member of the New Market American Legion. [COX, JOHN EDWARD, 1949-1985] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, May 2, 1985 John Cox service held John Edward Cox, 36, of rural Bedford, died April 28, 1985 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Funeral services were held this Thursday afternoon at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Rev. Sara Malone officiating. Interment was in the Washington Cemetery at Gravity with the New Market American Legion providing graveside services. He was born March 22, 1949 at Maryville, Mo, the son of Wayne and Phyllis Drennen Cox of New Market. On Oct. 29, 1968, he was married to Karen Wallace at the New Market Methodist Church. He was a veteran, having served two years in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. He was a member of the New Market American Legion post. He was a farmer at rural Bedford at the time of his death. He was preceded in death by a brother, Carl Dean. Survivors include his wife, Karen, and two children, Ray Edward Cox and Martina Ann Cox, all of the home; his parents of New Market and two sisters, Mrs. Glen (Ruth Ann) Lund and Mrs. Bill (Nancy) Ogle of Clearmont. Mo. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 21, 1982 Letha Viola Goode, Final Rites Were Held in Gravity Funeral services for Mrs. Julius A. (Letha Viola) Goode, 78, held January 16 in the Gravity Christian Church, were conducted by Pastor Roger Charley. Mrs. Goode died January 13, 1982 in Rosary Hospital in Corning. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Daughter of Frank Emerson McNees and Olive Viola Burley, Letha Viola Goode was born September 25, 1903 in Taylor County, Iowa. On October 11, 1968 she was married to Julius A. Goode in Maryville, Mo. A homemaker, Mrs. Goode spent her entire life in Taylor County. Mrs. Goode was preceded in death by her husband (Oct. 29, 1971) and her parents. Left to cherish her memory are two stepdaughters: Ms. Ruth Goode, Corning, Ia. and Mrs. Homer E. (Pinkey) McMorran, Nodaway, Iowa; half brother: George McNees, Pleasant Grove, Utah; two half sisters: Mrs: R. J. (Bobbie) Burbank, Charlo, Montana and Mrs. Fred Barrett, Kingman, Ariz. Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, May 29, 1986 RUSSELL HALL - Russell Hall, son of Charles and Laura Hall, was born on a farm in Mills, Co., Iowa, on November 30, 1906. He graduated from Hastings, Iowa High School in 1925 and attended Nebraska University. He worked most of his adult life in State Hospitals; the last 25 years he was Business Administrator of the Mental Health Institute in Clarinda, Iowa, retiring on November 30, 1971. On April 7, 1957 he married Gladys Wright who passed away June 11, 1964. On October 21, 1965 he married Eula Clayton who survives. He is also survived by two nieces, Ruth Ellen Triplett of Red Oak and Sandra Zuggy of Omaha, Nebraska. One stepson Dr. H. David Clayton, wife Kay and two grandchildren of Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Russell was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Sarasota, Florida. [HENDERSON, FLORENCE LOUISE THOMPSON] Clarinda Herald Journal, Wednesday, June 7, 1995, p. 2 FLORENCE L. HENDERSON – Florence L. Henderson, 88 of Clarinda, died Wednesday night, May 31, 1995 at Community Care Center in Clarinda after a long illness. She was born May 28, 1907 in Fillmore County, Minnesota, the daughter of Joseph and Martha Redwing Thompson. She married LeRoy Henderson in 1962. He preceded her in death in 1974. Henderson had worked for J. C. Penney Co., for 40 years before her retirement. She is survived by two sisters: Berniece Thompson, Minneapolis, Mn.; Emma Hartstad, Harmony, Mn. Also surviving are nieces and nephews. Graveside services were Friday, June 2 at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, was in charge of arrangements. Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, December 30, 1974, p. 12 Leroy Henderson Bedford native Leroy R Henderson, 69, died Dec 28 at his home in Clarinda and services are to be held Tuesday. The funeral is at Walker Funeral Home at 1:30 pm, burial at Bedford. He was born Aug 31, 1905, at Bedford, son of Edward D and Minnie Belle Potter Henderson. At an early age he went to western Nebraska and became a telegrapher for the railroad. He was associated in railroad work for 30 years. He was an agent for the Chicago, Northwestern railroad until his retirement in 1969. He lived in and around Milwaukee, Wisc for a number of years until 1973 when he and his wife came to Clarinda. He was married to Florance [Florene] Thompson, March 17, 1962. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, four sisters and one brother. He is survived by his wife Florance [Florence] of the home. A son Benny Case, by a previous marriage, of Anchorage, Alaska. Three sisters, Mrs Nellie Adamson and Mrs Alice Horning, of Bedford, Mrs Helen Carney, of Campbell, Nebr and one brother, Kenneth of Excelsior Springs, Mo. Carl Cummings will officiate at the services and the burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery at Bedford. Grace Perry will be organist. Casket bearers will be Si Peters, Kenneth Holbrook, Dennis Holbrook, Dave Anderson, Harold Shepherd and Cecil Cordell. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 5, 1968, p. 5 Mrs. Edna Karas Dies in Anita Mrs. Edna Karas, mother of Robert Karas of Bedford, died Thanksgiving Day in Anita, Iowa. She had been making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Arthur Garside [rest of article [unreadable ] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 26, 1995 GILBERT MARION KARAS - Funeral services for Gilbert M. Karas, 90, were held Wednesday, April 12, 1995, at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home in Bedford, Iowa. Pastor Michael D. Kalstrup officiated the services. Joan Kalstrup and Chris Campbell provided the music. Ruth Clark was organist. Pallbearers were James Marshall, Jr., Kevin Coram, Leonard Garside, Laverne Garside, Doyle Karas, and Denny Karas. Burial was at Washington Cemetery at Gravity, Iowa. Gilbert Marion Karas passed away April 9, 1995 at the age of 90 years, 10 months and 15 days. Gilbert Marion Karas was born on May 24, 1904 near Massena in Cass County Iowa, the oldest son of Otto Karas and Edna Harris Karas. He was married February 5, 1929, to Rosa Alvilda Christensen. Gilbert had taught country school for several years before taking up farming. Gilbert and Rosa farmed in the Massena area before moving to their own home near Sharpsburg, Iowa. For the past five years, he has been a resident of the Atlantic Care Center in Atlantic, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rosa, and one brother, Frank Karas. Surviving are his two sons, Gerald Karas and wife Evelyn of Massena; Arnold Karas and wife Artha of Lenox; two daughters, Rosella Howes and husband Richard of Greenfield; and Dianna Marshall and husband James of Oakland, Iowa; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Matte Bicking and Leona Garside of Anita, and Alice Wohlenhaus of Indiana; two brothers, Elwin Karas of Anita and Robert Karas of Bedford. [KARAS, ROSA ALVILDA CHRISTENSEN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 22, 1979 Rosa Karas, 69 Last Rites Were Held February 14 Funeral services for Mrs. Gilbert Marion (Rosa) Karas, 69, of Gravity, were held February 14 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Ken Baird the speaker. Mrs. Karas died February 11, 1979 in Rosary Hospital in Corning. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Rosa Alvilda Karas, daughter of Chris Christensen and Sofia Christensen, was born in Jutland, Denmark March 16, 1909. She came to America at the age of 18 months and located at Elk Horn, Iowa and grew to maturity in the Massena community. On February 5, 1929 she was united in marriage to Gilbert Marion Karas at Atlantic, Iowa and they lived in Cass, Adams and making Taylor County her home for the last 39 years. To this union four children were born: Gerald, Arnold, Rosella and Dianna. She was preceded in death by her father Chris Christensen, mother, Sofia Christensen, a sister, Ellna, and infant brother and Dagmar and Clara. Left to cherish her memory are her husband; 4 children and spouses, three sisters, one brother, 12 grandchildren and one great grandson. Over 40 years ago she accepted the Lord Jesus as her personal savior and was washed of her sins by the Blood shed on the Cross at Calvary. From this time on she has been a true believing child of God and has dedicated her life to Him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 1, 1989 ROSS LEON KEYT Services for Ross Leon Keyt, 81, Gravity, Iowa, were held February 27 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Dr. Forrest Whitlatch and Rev. James Hickman officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Mr. Keyt died February 22, 1989 at his home in Gravity. Ross Leon Keyt, son of Josie Dell Call and Morris Keyt, was born near Greencastle in Putnam County, Indiana, March 25, 1907. He lived the first 32 years of his life in Putnam County, Indiana. After graduating from Clinton Center High School, he attended Central Normal College in Danville, Ind. After completing his training at Central Normal, he taught school at Number 7 Clinton Township. For approximately 10 years during the Great Depression he farmed 160 acres using draft horses. On September 25, 1938, he was united in marriage to Ruth Anna Burk at Bethel Church in Putnam County. To this union four children were born: Morris Leroy, Stephen Ray, Rachel Josephine, and Robert Wesley. In 1939 he moved to Tabor, Iowa, where he taught school, and attended the Hepzibah Faith Missionary Association Bible College in training for the ministry. His early ministry included a church at Plattsmouth, Neb., and King's Church near Bartlett. Ross was first ordained a minister in the Free Methodist Church. He served as pastor of the Free Methodist Church in Shambaugh from 1950 to 1955 during his ministerial training and early ministry, Ross also farmed in the Tabor and Hamburg area. While at Shambaugh he worked at the Berry Seed Company in Clarinda. After living in Westfield, Ind. for two years, he moved to Gravity in 1957, where he served as a pastor for nearly 31 years. From 1958 to 1965, Reverend Keyt was also pastor of the Oak Hill Christian Church. In 1963 he became formally affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, and remained a minister in good standing with the Church of the Nazarene until his death. Ross worked for several years at the Clarinda Mental Health Institute and at the Taylor County Care Facility. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Roy, and his three sisters, Mae O'Hair, Zoe Porter, and Oreta Ratcliff. Left to cherish his memory are: his wife, Ruth Anna; one daughter, Rachel and Chuck Adams of Gibbon, Neb.; and three sons, Leroy and Connie of Hartley, Iowa; Stephen and Donna of Cheyenne, Wyo.; and Robert and Mary of Sioux City. Nine grandchildren: David Keyt of Clearfield, Utah; Chris Keyt of Peoria, Az.; Kathy Linsley of Ames, Iowa; Dean Keyt of Ames; Annette Beach of Atlanta, Ga.; Tim Keyt of Shalimar, Fla.; Jana Adams of Kearney, Neb.; and Heather and Bryan Keyt of Sioux City; five great grandchildren: Theresa, Andy, Alison, Megan, and Natasha. Ross had a massive stroke March 3, 1988, from which he never recovered. He died peacefully in his sleep at home. Ross had a firm set of convictions and, a strong faith in God that guided his life. While he was not afraid to voice his beliefs, he taught more by the way he lived than by the words he preached. In a modest, unpretentious way, in a small town community, he lived the faith in which he believed. His ministry in Gravity could be described as a ministry to the young. He enjoyed children and young people. He saw the same hope and promise in young people that he saw when he planted his garden of green beans, tomatoes, and melons --- the hope that each one would become a good and useful adult. Ross saw life clearly and had a great tolerance for the foibles and weaknesses of his fellow man. He visited and comforted people without regard to religious ties. He was concerned with people, without regard to wealth or social station. Whether you were a saint or a sinner, he was a friend. Ross was a good man. He was a loving husband, a caring father, a man who deeply enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. For we who knew Ross well, we know that he is now enjoying the joys of heaven. We can picture him talking and laughing, possibly showing some young angel just how to bridle a stubborn mule. But if Ross had one more chance to deliver a sermon, I'm sure it would be this: "Only one life, 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for God will last." [LYONS, PHYLLIS IRENE JOHNSON] Phyllis Irene Lyons was born March 7, 1939 at Council Bluffs, Iowa to Paul Wilhelm Johnson and Ruth Irene (Lincoln) Johnson. Phyllis graduated Glenwood High School in 1957 and earned her beautician license after graduating Barnes Beauty School, Council Bluffs, Iowa in 1958. She worked for Joann Sorenson in Audubon, Iowa from 1958-1961 and from 1961-1972 she had a shop in Coon Rapids, Iowa followed by a beauty shop in Bedford from 1972 until retiring in May 2005. She was a beautician for 46 years. Her heart was always in being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother giving love to them to no end. While her family was the love of her life she enjoyed leisure time knitting, crocheting, reading, going to Bingo, and tending to farm chores especially the lambing in the springtime. In May 2005 Phyllis was diagnosed with cancer and fought a hard battle giving her more years with her family and friends than originally thought. However, July 21, 2010 at Mercy Hospital, Council Bluff, Iowa she was set free from the pain and suffering she endured. She was preceded by her parents and son-in-law Ed Anstey. Surviving are her husband, Donald of Gravity, Iowa; children, Paula Anstey, Corning, Iowa and Duane Lyons and companion Connie Fleetwood of Gravity, Iowa; grandchildren William Paul Anstey, Corning, Iowa, Marybeth Anstey, Corning, Iowa, and Tonya Fleetwood of New York City, New York; and brother, Roger Johnson and wife Charlene of Blue Springs, Missouri; nieces, nephews and many friends. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday, July 26, 2010 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford, Iowa with Pastor Jeff Hontz officiating. Interment will be at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Family visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to a fund established in Phyllis’ name. [Online obituary courtesy of Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, Iowa] [MCKINLEY, HELEN IRENE WALTERS] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 22, 1969, p. 5 Mrs. Jess McKinley Rites Held Monday Funeral services for Mrs. Jess (Helen Irene) McKinley, 71, of Bedford were held May 19 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, conducted by Rev. Richard G. Viney. Mrs. McKinley died May 16, 1969. Interment was at Rose Hill Cemetery, Shenandoah, Iowa.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 29, 1969, p. 8 Helen McKinley Services May 19 Funeral services for Mrs. Jess (Helen Irene) McKinley, 71, of Bedford, held May 19 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here, were conducted by Rev. Richard G. Viney. Mrs. McKinley died unexpectedly May 16, 1969. Interment was at Rose Hill Cemetery, Shenandoah. Helen Irene McKinley, 71, daughter of Levi and Bertha Walters, was born August 26, 1897 at Shenandoah, Ia. She was united in marriage to Jess Harlan McKinley in 1920 and she is survived by their three children: Wayne McKinley, Los Angeles, California; Max McKinley, Stockton, California; Doris Kemper, Antioch, California, and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jess McKinley, one sister, Mrs. Mabel Piper and her parents. About 12 years of her childhood were spent on a farm near Gravity, Iowa, and the family then moved to Shenandoah, Iowa. After her marriage she resided in Council Bluffs and Shenandoah. For the past 20 years she has resided on a farm south of Bedford. She was well known by many in the Shenandoah and Bedford area, and will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved her. She was very active and enjoyed working in her garden and tending her many flowers. Her three children were here for the funeral services. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 27, 1956, p. 7 Jesse McKinley Is Buried Here Graveside services were held in Fairview cemetery, Saturday, Sept. 22 for Jesse Harlan McKinley, 56, a former resident of Bedford. Rev. Wilbur G. Travis of the Christian church officiated. Mr. McKinley died in San Diego, Calif. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Helen McKinley; by two sons and a daughter, Max of Omaha, Wayne and Doris of San Diego; also by his mother, Mrs. George McKinley of California. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 21, 1946, [p. 1] Barney Marsh Kills Woman and Self Marie Bowers of Kansas City was killed there Monday morning by a charge from a single-barrel .12-gauge shotgun as she started from her home to her work, and Byron Marsh died a few seconds later from a self-inflicted wound in the heart. This news reached Bedford by way of metropolitan newspapers. Marsh, known here as “Barney,” was a former resident of Bedford. He moved from here to Chicago about four years ago and later moved to Kansas City, being employed in both cities by Montgomery Ward. He is survived by four children and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Marsh, with whom he made his home in Kansas City. His wife was granted a divorce from him last fall. The body was brought to Bedford and the funeral services are being held at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 2 o’clock Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. O. H. Hallgrimson. Burial in the Fairview cemetery. [MARSH, BYRON JOHN “BARNEY”] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 7, 1946, p. 3 Obituary – Byron J. Marsh Byron J. [ohn] Marsh was born at Mt. Etna, Iowa, August 11, 1905, the son of George and Ellen Marsh, and died Monday, February 18, 1946 at Kansas City, Mo. aged 40 years, 6 months and 7 days. He was married to Bessie Erna [Edna] Stoner of Bedford, Nov. 22, 1926, at Bedford, Iowa. To them were born four children, Betty, Bob, Jack and Jerry, all of the home. The family resided in Bedford several years where they were well and favorably known. They had lived in Kansas City the past three years where the family and his parents still reside. He is survived by his wife, four children, the parents; one sister, Mrs. Orville Steadman of Brooks. The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. O. H. Hallgrimson. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery. Attend Marsh Funeral Out of town relatives and friends, who attended the funeral services for Byron Marsh in Bedford Thursday afternoon included Mr. and Mrs. George Marsh, Mrs. Bessie Marsh and children, and Ross Stoner of Kansas City; Mr. and Mrs. Orville Steadman and son Byron. Mrs. Paul Mitchell and son Douglas of Brooks; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Thomas, Mrs. Etta Yearrington. Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hickman, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Marsh, Mr. and Mrs. Chester Fox, Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Murphey of Corning. Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Carney and son Dean. Mrs. Kenneth Carney and son Dennis, of Rock Island, Illinois; John Marsh of Helena, Oklahoma; Pfc Lyman Thomas of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; Mr and Mrs Roger McAlister of Sheridan. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 5, 2000 LARRY MARTIN - Funeral services for Larry Martin, age 64 of Gravity, who died Sunday, December 26, 1999 at his home were held Wednesday, December 29, 1999 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Interment was at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in his name. Services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Larry Martin was born July 8, 1935 in Gravity, the son of Francis Martin and Mary Jane Adams Higgins Martin. He grew up attending school in Gravity. On October 6, 1962 he was united in marriage to Justene Sollars in Omaha, Nebraska. To this union six children were born. Larry worked road construction all of this working life, having spent the last thirty-five years working for Western Engineering in Harlan. His work was his passion, and he took great pride in the roads that he built and the relationships he had with his crew. Working away from home for half of the year meant being away from family, so when his kids were old enough to work, he often took them with him. When he was home during the winter months, he spent a lot of time in his woodshop, where he made many different things, including Christmas items that the volunteer workers at the Bedford Nursing Home could finish. He loved his family, especially all of his grandkids. He cared for his mother for many years, until her death in 1979. Justene made sure Larry always had a dog to keep him company, with Penny and Tinkerbell being two of his favorites. If you wanted to hear a joke or story, Larry always had one to tell, and it might have been one he'd already told, but he told them so well, you didn't mind hearing it again. A benefit was held for Larry this past year and he was touched greatly by the support of the large turnout. Larry attended the Revelation Light Church being born again this last year. Larry was an unconditionally loyal man, whether it was his wife, children, mother, work or his friends, he could always be counted on! He is survived by his loving wife Justene Martin of Gravity; six children, Jeff Martin of Dallas, Texas; Judy Hart and husband Kevin of Sioux City, Iowa; Joe Martin of Dallas, Texas; Julie Peterson of Sioux City, Iowa; James Martin and wife Brenda of Gravity; and Jeremy Martin of Gravity; a brother, Richard Martin and wife Maureen of Hepburn, Iowa; several step-brothers and step-sisters; seventeen grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents, Francis and Mary Jane and a sister, Faye Arlene Warrick. [MORGAN, ADDA “ADDIE” BRADLEY] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 5, 1976 Last Rites Held July 29 for Adda Morgan Funeral services for Mrs. Cecil R. (Adda) Morgan, 90, long time Gravity resident, held July 29 at Shum-Novinger Funerals Home in Bedford, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Mrs. Morgan died July 27,1976, in Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Adda Bradley Morgan, daughter of Alonzo and Clara Stewart Bradley, was born July 16, 1886, at Siam in Taylor County, Iowa. She grew to maturity in Taylor County, moving with her parents to the Gravity area when she was a young girl. Here she attended the public schools and the Christian Church. One June 29, 1904, she was united in marriage to Cecil R. [ay] Morgan and they enjoyed almost 72 years of wedded life together; Mr. Morgan died June 25, 1976. To them one daughter, Eula Morgan Morris was born who preceded them in death. Also preceding her in death were her parents, four brothers, one sister and one grandson. She was the last member of her family. Left to cherish her memory are her granddaughter, Clara Lou Hardin; son-in-law, Paul Morris; a great granddaughter, Terri Morris; other relatives and many friends. She was a longtime and faithful member of the Gravity Christian Church. Mrs. Morgan will be remembered as a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and neighbor, by all those who knew and loved her. [MORGAN, ADDA “ADDIE” BRADLEY] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, July 29, 1976 Adda Morgan died at hospital GRAVITY — Mrs C R (Adda) Morgan, 90, who has been making her home in recent years at West Heights Manor, died Tuesday at the Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Her health had been such that she had been frequent patient. Services were being held this Thursday. The funeral was to be at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford and burial in Washington Cemetery at Gravity. Carl Cummings of Bedford was to officiate. Her husband, Cecil, died about a month ago at 97 years of age. They were to have observed their 72nd wedding anniversary this year. Their daughter, Mrs Paul (Eula) Morris, died several years ago, leaving Morris of Glenwood and his daughter, Mrs John Hardin of Bedford, as survivors. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 6, 1977 Hold Final Rites December 31 for Jessie Pearce Funeral services for Jessie Junior Pearce, 69, of Gravity, held December 31 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Rev. Ross Keyt. Mr. Pearce died December 28, 1976 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Jessie Junior Pearce, son of Jessie and Daisy Pearce, was born at Monett, Missouri February 25, 1907. He lived in Coats, Kansas where he attended the public school and the Baptist Church of Sun City, Kans. On March 19, 1936 he was united in marriage to Eula Daniels at Pratt, Kansas and they lived at Monett, Mo. To this union were born two daughters, Winona and Helen. He was employed by the Frisco Railroad for 25 years. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. Left to cherish his memory are his wife; two daughters; three grandchildren; one brother; one sister; two nieces and their families. He was a member of the Baptist Church, Sun City, Kans. He was a kind and considerate husband and father and wi1l be missed by all who knew and loved him. [RANDOLPH, MARJORIE MAE ELLISON] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 25, 1987 MARJORIE M. RANDOLPH - Funeral services for Mrs. Raymond (Marjorie M.) Randolph, 64, of the Siam area were held Friday at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Loren Day officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Mrs. Randolph died Tuesday morning at her home. She was born March 8, 1923, near Guss, the daughter of Wilbur and Martha Corbin Ellison. On Oct. 23, 1942 she was married to Raymond Randolph who survives. Mrs. Randolph had worked at MHI for 28 years before her retirement in 1985. Besides her husband of the home she is survived by five sons, Gary of Trenton, Mo., James of Yorktown, Ron of Ogden, Terry of Yorktown, and Dennis of rural Siam. There are eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Mrs. Virgil (Mildred) Cannon of Mt. Ayr is a sister. She was preceded in death by parents, and two half brothers, Ralph Wilson and Carroll Ellison. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, July 12, 1995 DONALD W. RIDNOUR - Donald W. [ayne] Ridnour, son of Leroy Albert Ridnour and Edna Lorene Whestine [Whetstine], was born at New Market, Iowa on September 17, 1925 and departed this life on June 29, 1995 at the age of sixty-nine, at his home in Gravity, Iowa. During his early life, spent in New Market, he attended the public schools there. On November 1, 1947 he was united in marriage to Gertrude Johnson at Clark, South Dakota, and they made their home in Gravity, Iowa. To this union one child was born. He was employed as a plumber until retirement and then farmed a bit on the side. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister and two brothers. Left to cherish his memory are: his wife, Gertrude; one brother, Dean Ridnour of Clarinda, Iowa; one son, Leroy of Gravity, Iowa; two daughters, Cleo Anderson of Medford, Oregon, and Lavon Miller of Bedford, Iowa; and six grandchildren. He was a kind and considerate husband and will be missed by all. Graveside services were held on July 3, 1995 at the Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Arrangements by Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home of Bedford. [RIDNOUR, GERTRUDE ELIZABETH “GERTIE” JOHNSON] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, June 18, 2003 Gertrude Ridnour - Gertrude "Gertie" Ridnour, age 76, of Clarinda, Iowa died Saturday morning, June 14, 2003 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda. Gertie was born at Gary, South Dakota on June 26,1926, the daughter of Peter and Jeanette (Boss) Johnson. Gertie attended school in Gary and Watertown, South Dakota. She later became a certified nurse aid and worked for the State of Iowa at various state hospitals. She had been a member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford, Iowa and was a past member of the Order of Eastern Star. Gertie is survived by her son Donald LeRoy Ridnour and his wife Sally of Clarinda; six grandchildren: William Ridnour, stationed in Kuwait; Diana Ridnour and friend Tony Aranda of Clarinda; Don Ridnour, Anna Marie Ridnour, Michael Ridnour, and Kevin Ridnour all of Clarinda; and a great grandson Andre Aranda of Clarinda. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother Darrell Johnson. Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2003 at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa with Pastor Scott Denham officiating. A memorial fund will be established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda was in charge of arrangements. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, July 12, 1989 HARRY DON RIDNOUR - Services for Harry Don Ridnour, 73, Bedford, were held July 1 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home by Rev. Carl Cummings. Burial was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Mr. Ridnour died June 28, 1989 at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha. Harry Don Ridnour, son of Fred Ridnour and Ada Belle Coy Ridnour was born at Hawleyville in Page County Iowa on November 25, 1915. He grew to maturity in the Hawleyville community where he attended the public school and the Methodist Church. On May 13, 1948 he was united in marriage to Helen Irene Dawson at Clarinda, Iowa and they lived on a farm near Gravity, Iowa until they moved to Bedford, Iowa in 1976 where they have continued to reside. To this union four children were born: Larry Don of Fordlan, Mo.; William Duane of Ames Iowa; Freddie Dean of Honolulu, Ha.; and Harry David of Clarinda, Iowa Harry engaged in farming until his retirement and he enjoyed the tilling of the soil; the planting of the crop and the harvest season that produced the results of his efforts. It was a good way of life and he felt the closeness of nature about him as the seasons would come and go during the year. He was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Helen of the home; the four sons and their families; nine grandchildren: Pamela Ann, Susan Jean, Rebecca Lynn, William John, Billie Jo, Timothy Dean, David Edwin, Heidi Nicole and Harry Robert; other relatives and friends. He was a member of the United Methodist Church. His family and friends will remember him as a kind and considerate loved one and he will be sadly missed by one and all. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 26, 1938, [p. 1] Oscar Roush Kills Self by Hanging Oscar Roush, farmer residing about five miles north of Bedford on Highway No. 148, hung himself Thursday evening a short distance away from the house. It is believed he had become despondent over ill health. Alarmed over his absence from the house, neighbors and friends made a search, finding the body about 8 p. m. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. C. Max Buck. Burial was in the Dallas Cemetery. [ROUSH, WILLIAM OSCAR] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 26, 1938, p. 8 Obituary – W. Oscar Roush William Roush, son of Sebastian and Ella Mary Roush, was born in Henry County, Iowa, near Wayland on April 24, 1878 and died at his home near Gravity Thursday, May 19, 1938, at the age of 60 years and 25 days. During his early childhood he moved with his parents to Clarinda. August 20, 1900 he was married to Cora Mae Cade of New Market and they moved to a farm north of New Market. To them were born four children, Lloyd Clair Roush of Chicago, Leslie Francis Roush of Gravity, Mrs. Alta Clarice Clive of Chicago, and Wilma Ella Long of Gravity. Surviving with the wife and four children are five grandchildren, Darrell Dean and Donna Jean Roush, Billie and Bobbie Long, and Leah Rae Roush; and two nephews, Darrell and Delbert Davison. He was a member of the Methodist church and belonged to the Fortnightly and Bi-monthly clubs. He was a kind, loving husband and father, a good neighbor and friend, and was always willing to help others. The funeral services were held at the Christian church in Gravity Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. C. Max Buck. Burial was in the Dallas Center cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 20, 1981, p. 4 Delmar Smith, 54, Last Rites Were Held August 18 Funeral services for Delmar Glen Smith, 54, Bedford, held Tues., Aug. 18, in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford were conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings. Mr. Smith died in Veterans’ Hospital in Omaha August 15, 1981. Members of Bedford American Legion Post 164 acted as casket bearers and conducted Military Honors at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Delmar Glen Smith, son of William Smith and Blanche Miller Smith, was born at Siam in Taylor County, Iowa April 8, 1927. When he was nine years old he moved with his family to Bedford, Iowa where he grew to maturity and attended the Bedford High School and the Baptist Church. On March 4, 1945 he was united in marriage to Betty June Irwin at Bedford, Iowa. Two children were born to them: Linda Sue and Steven Michael. He was employed by the Fuller-Taylor Clothing Company and the Dad and Lad Clothing Store in Bedford and by the Livingston Clothing Store in Maryville, Missouri. During World War II he served his country being stationed in Germany for two years where he was supply sergeant. He was a member of the Baptist Church and American Legion Post #100 of Maryville, Missouri. On November 15, 1966 he was united in marriage to Laura L. Newton at Bedford, Iowa, and they resided in Maryville Missouri, before moving to Bedford where they now reside. He was preceded in death by his father, William Smith, and a sister, Pauline Hooper. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Laura of the home; his mother Blanche Smith of Bedford Manor; two children: Linda Sue Smith and Steve Smith of Lincoln, Nebraska; two brothers, Kenneth Smith and his wife, Nellie, and Marvin Smith and his wife Martha, and a brother-in-law, Claude A. Hooper all of Bedford; one niece; one nephew; other relatives and friends. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, February 17, 1988 OPAL MCKUNE SOLLARS - Services for Opal McKune Sollars, 84, were held recently. Mrs. Sollars died January 31, 1988 at Mercy Hospital, Corning, Ia. Opal McKune Sollars, daughter of Oscar and Rachel Garrett McKune was born at Gravity, Ia. May 26, 1903. She lived in Taylor County and grew to maturity in Gravity where she attended the public school and the Christian Church. On January 28, 1920 she was united in marriage to Arthur Francis Sollars at the Taylor County Court House and they lived in rural Gravity most of their married life. To this union one child was born, Arthur Darrell Sollars. She was a farm wife, mother and helped side by side on their farm. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rachel and Oscar McKune; two brothers Clarence and Carl McKune; a sister Coral Adams; a grandson Eugene and a granddaughter Patricia Ann. Left to cherish her memory are her husband Arthur; son Darrell and wife Mary, Richmond, Mo.; granddaughter and husband, Justene and Larry Martin, Gravity; grandson and wife, Robert and Patricia Sollars, Richmond, Mo.; granddaughter-in-law, Michelle Sollars; great grandchildren, Jeff, Judy, Joe, Julie, Jeremy and James Martin; Corine, Ashley Sollars and Jason Thompson; Nathaniel and Samuel Sollars; four great great grandchildren, Joshua and Dustin, Zachary and Emily. She was a member of the Gravity Christian Church and Ladies Aid. She had a strong faith and encouraged her family to become Christians also. She was a kind and considerate wife, mother and grandmother and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, August 28, 1996, p. 3 Arthur D. [arrell] Sollars, 75, of Richmond, MO, died at 5:50 p. m., Sunday, August 25, 1996 at the Santa Fe Trail Health Care Center in Lexington, MO. Mr. Sollars was born February 16, 1921, in Hepburn, IA to Arthur F. [rancis] Sollars and Opal Alice (McKune) Sollars. He married Mary Jane West of Gravity, IA on August 31, 1940; she survives of the home. Other survivors include his father, Arthur F. [rancis] Sollars of Bedford, IA; one son, Robert Sollars of Richmond; one daughter, Justene Martin of Gravity, IA; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren. Mr. Sollars was self-employed at Sollars and Son Welding before retiring in 1988. He had been actively involved in sales work also. He had lived in Richmond since 1962. He was a member of the Christian Church. He had been a member of the VFW in Iowa. Mr. Sollars was a U. S. Army Veteran of World War II. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association. Visitation was held Tuesday, August 27, from 7:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m. at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, MO. Funeral services will be Wednesday, August 28, at 2:00 p. m. at the Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home in Bedford, IA. Burial will be at Gravity Cemetery in Gravity, IA. [SOLLARS, ARTHUR FRANCIS “ART”] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, February 25, 1998 Arthur Francis Sollars - Arthur Francis Sollars was born the son of John and Dora York Sollars on September 20, 1902 near Hawleyville, Iowa. Art passed away Friday, February 20, 1998 at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center. He was the youngest of six children born to John and Dora. On January 28, 1920 he was united in marriage to Alice Opal McKune. To this loving union one son was born, Arthur Darrell. Art was a life long Taylor county resident. He and Opal spent most of their life farming in Taylor County, eventually settling on a farm six miles north of Gravity. He was an avid hunter and fisher and thoroughly enjoyed hunting coyotes or going fishing with friends and nephews. He was a successful farmer and loved 1he outdoors and the land. In the I970's Art and Opal retired and bought a house in Gravity where he lived and maintained the home for many years after Opal's death. He enjoyed going to the coffee shop and playing cards and visiting with his many friends. He was a kind and generous man who was devoted to his wife and family and particularly fond of his many grandchildren, great and great great grandchildren. Art was a member of the Gravity Christian Church. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter in law, Mary Sollars of Richmond, Missouri; his granddaughter, Justene and husband Larry Martin of Gravity; his grandson Robert and his wife Patty Sollars of Lexington, Missouri; twelve great grandchildren, and twelve great great grandchildren. Art is preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife Opal in 1988; his son Darrell in 1996; his brothers and sisters; one granddaughter, Patricia and one grandson, Lawrence Eugene. Funeral services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford on Monday, February 23, 1998 at 2:00 p.m. Burial was in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. [THOMPSON, ETHEL FLORENCE “FLO” WILEY] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 23, 1909, [p. 1] Dies In Far West Remains of Mrs. Lawrence Thompson Will be Brought Here for Burial Tuesday morning A. Wiley received a message announcing the death of his daughter Florence, wife of Lawrence Thompson, at Jerome, Ida. Word was received today that the remains will arrive Friday afternoon. Mrs. Thompson’s parents had received a message about two hours before, giving the information that she was in a critical condition, but the news had hardly become known, when the death message came. Seldom is there such general sorrow among the young people as there was following this report of death. Florence Wiley had grown to young womanhood in Bedford, and had a wide acquaintance and large circle of friends. Late in the winter she was married to Lawrence Thompson, a popular young Bedford man, in Kansas City, and in the early summer they decided to go to the new country of the northwest to make the home and build for life. At the time of their leaving she was full of youthful vigor and life, which made the shock the worse, for no intimation had been received of her critical condition, which, so far as is known here, came upon her suddenly. Carl Wiley, a brother, who resides in Nebraska, arrived Wednesday afternoon to be present at the funeral. [THOMPSON, ETHEL FLORENCE “FLO” WILEY] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 23, 1909, [p. 1] Unusually Sad Death Mrs. Lawrence Thompson Expires Dies At Her Home In Jerome, Ida. Monday Night—Remains Arrive Here Tomorrow Morning As thunder from a clear sky came the announcement on Tuesday of the death of Mrs. Lawrence Thompson, at her new home at Jerome, Idaho. No particulars are at hand other than this, except that the remains will arrive here tomorrow (Friday) morning, accompanied by the heart broken husband. Mr. Thompson’s brothers, Ralph and Guy, went to Omaha last night to meet and escort the sad little party home. Mrs. Thompson was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. Wiley of this city. She grew to beautiful young womanhood here and at Hopkins and was a prime favorite with all who knew her, as she was of such bright, cheerful disposition that gloom could not exist in her circle. She was a saleslady in Bibbins drug store for a year prior to her marriage with Lawrence Thompson last winter, and shortly after this event they moved to Idaho, where Mr. Thompson had just become established in the real estate business. The first intimation had by the relatives here of this sad ending, was a telegram Tuesday forenoon, which stated that she was very ill. Mrs. Wiley was making preparations to go to see her when a second telegram arrived within an hour of the first stating that she had passed away. While no information can be given regarding the funeral until the arrival of the remains tomorrow, it will probably be held tomorrow afternoon. The entire city extends its deepest sympathy to the young husband and to the heartbroken mother, father and brother, whom she leaves to mourn. [THOMPSON, ETHEL FLORENCE “FLO” WILEY] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 30, 1909, [p. 1] Obituary – The remains of Mrs. Lawrence Thompson arrived here Friday afternoon, from Jerome, Ida., accompanied by her husband and the babe of but a few days old. They were taken to the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. Wiley, and on Saturday afternoon the funeral was held, conducted by Rev. S. E. Henry, assisted by Rev. D. McMasters. Flo Wiley was born in Nodaway County, Missouri near Hopkins, May 21, 1890. She moved with her parents to Hopkins and later to Maryville and Stanberry, Mo., coming to Bedford in 1902. Here she resided until her marriage with Lawrence Thompson, one of Bedford’s highly esteemed young men, and afterwards they moved to their late home in Jerome, Idaho, where Mr. Thompson is engaged in real estate business. The large number of beautiful floral offerings and the many friends attending the funeral spoke volumes for the high esteem in which she was held. She was of such a disposition that she readily made friends of all with whom she came in contact, and all of whom express their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved ones. [THOMPSON, ETHEL FLORENCE “FLO” WILEY] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 30, 1909, p. 4 Mrs. Florence Thompson The remains of Mrs. Florence Thompson, whose death at Jerome, Idaho, was mentioned last week, were brought here Friday afternoon, accompanied by the husband, Lawrence Thompson. Funeral services were held at the home of A. Wiley Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. S. E. Henry, assisted by Rev. D. McMasters. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 27, 1956, p. 6 Irven Weeda’s Father Dies Dick Weeda, 85, a resident of the Tingley community, died Tuesday Sept. 18. Funeral services and burial were at Tingley Thursday. Mr. Weeda is survived by his wife, eight children, 23 grandchildren. Irven Weeda of the Conway community is a son. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, October 31, 1929, p. 5 Mrs. Ed Wilson Mrs Ed Wilson, aged 79 years, of Gravity, passed away at her home Friday morning. The funeral services were held in Gravity on Sunday morning at 11 o’clock, conducted by Rev. Mr. Warrior, and interment was made in the Gravity Cemetery.
|