Obituary Collection of Linda Kestner:lfkestner3@msn.com
RALPH HOOVER
BLOCKTON
The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa
published on February 04, 2007

RALPH HOOVER

Blockton

Formerly of Coon Rapids

Services for Ralph Hoover, 93, will be Sunday at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford at 2 p.m. Burial will be held at the Redding Cemetery in Redding. Memorials can be given in his name. There is no visitation scheduled prior to services.

Ralph Harold Hoover was born in Blockton, Iowa on December 4, 1913, the son of Charles Edward Hoover and Mamie (Spencer) Hoover. He graduated from high school and worked as a salesman in the automotive industry. He was united in marriage to Hazel Walston. The couple lived in Iowa until they moved to Arizona eight years ago.

He is survived by his wife Hazel of Arizona; a son Gary Hoover of Rio Verde, AZ; four grandchildren, Steve and Michelle Fogle; Eric and Molly Hoover; David and Amanda Berka; and Deborah Sedlak; six great-grandchildren, Abby, Claire and Cooper Fogle; Isaac Berka; and Brandi and Tommy Sedlak.

 
JON "OMAR" CIRKSENA
DES MOINES
The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa
published on February 21, 2007

JON "OMAR" CIRKSENA

Des Moines

Jon "Omar" Cirksena, 66, was born October 30, 1940 in Bedford, IA to Hank and Mozel Cirksena. He died peacefully at his home, February 18, 2007. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 22, 2007 at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon St. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Jon was a Navy Veteran and a graduate of Drake University. He was an artist and had taught at DMACC. Jon also had his own auto body repair and paint business before retiring as a painter.

Jon is survived by his four children, J.B. (Rhonda) Johnson of Waukee, Scott (Julie) Cirksena of Clive, Jason Cirksena of Jacksonville, FL and Suzanne (Randy) Britson of Gainesville, FL; five grandchildren; two brothers, David of Des Moines and Jim (Beverly) of Johnston. He was preceded in death by his parents.

 

MAX HARLAND

Perry

Funeral services for Max Harland, age 78, of Perry will be held Thursday, July 10, 2008, at 10 a.m. at the Carris Family Funeral Home in Perry.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 9, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with the family present to greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Carris Family Funeral Home. Burial will be at 4 p.m. in the Dallas Center Cemetery at New Market, IA.

Memorials will be given to his church and to the Kiwanis International Foundation and may be left at the Funeral Home.

Max died on Sunday, July 6, 2008 at the Dallas County Hospital in Perry.

Merlyn Max Harland was born on June 20, 1930 at Gravity, IA to Merle Eldon and Pauline Doris (Greeley) Harland. He graduated from the New Market High School in 1949. After high school he attended Iowa State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry. He married Joan LaVaughn Hunter on September 7, 1952 in Clarinda, IA. He farmed for two years near New Market, IA and then was the assistant Cass County Extension Director in Atlantic for three years. They moved to Perry in 1961 and he was a salesman for Olin Matheson Fertilizer and Chemical Company until 1969. In 1964, they opened the 2nd coin operated car wash in the state of Iowa on West Willis Ave. in Perry. They started the Harland Ace Hardware store in 1969, and he retired in 1994.

Max was a member of Sunday Church in West Des Moines, IA. He served on several boards of directors including Central Christian College at Moberly, MO, Central Iowa Bible Camp in Earlham, and Christian Evangelistic Mission of Iowa. He also served as Elder and Teacher in the Church of Christ, and traveled on three short term mission trips overseas.

Max was very active in Kiwanis both locally and internationally. He was twice local President of the Perry Kiwanis Club and twice Kiwanis District Governor. He was a member of the Perry Chamber Ambassadors, served on the Perry City Council, volunteered at the Perry Food Pantry and served on the Dallas County Republican Central Committee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Pauline Harland and a sister, Doris Damewood and her husband Darrell.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Harland of Perry, IA, a son, Ron Harland and wife Diane of Perry, IA, a daughter, Dr. Elaine Berry and husband Jim of Lewis, IA; five grandchildren, Andy Harland of Granger, IA and fiance Alyssa Benton of Ankeny, IA, David Harland of Perry, and fiance Amy Baldner of Dallas Center, IA, Kevin Berry and wife Kendra of Joplin, MO, and Rhonda and Teresa Berry both of Lewis, IA.

 

MARTHA ANN WILSON

Des Moines

Martha Ann Wilson, 76, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. A memorial gathering, with the family present, will held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, March 5, at Iles Funeral Homes-Westover Chapel. A private memorial service will be held Friday, March 6. Burial will be held at a later date at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, IA.

Martha was born January 2, 1933, in Bedford, the daughter of John Loyd and Kila (Miller) Stickelman. She graduated from Bedford High School in 1951. Martha was a salesperson at the J.C. Penney Store at Valley West Mall in West Des Moines.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Helen Croat. She is survived by her daughter, Tracie (Scott) Johnston, of Corning; grandchildren, Kyle and Kally Johnston; nephew, Randy (Karen) Croat, of Clive and their children Jeff and Beth Ann; and niece, Becky Davis, of Des Moines; and her son, Connor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Wilson Memorial Fund.

Des Moines Register, 04 Mar 2009.
 

 

William Dubin

William (Bill) Arthur Dubin, 86, of Downey, Calif. and Palm Desert, Calif. passed away March 7, 2009 in Palm Desert, Calif. He was born Nov. 20, 1922 to Sam Dubin and Madge Bristow-Dubin in Bedford, Iowa. Bill was a wholesale car dealer for forty years and was a member of the Elks Club and LPGA. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1946 as a Sergeant. Bill was a top basketball player in high school, and an avid golfer (Ed Fiori was his caddy at one time). He loved to talk about his work on the P-47 fighters during WWII. His other interests included horse races and basketball. He was a loving and supportive brother and uncle. He is survived by his sister, Roberta Linn of Palm Desert, Calif.; his nephew Fred; niece Angela; and great niece and nephews. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held March 28, 2009 at 1:00 PM at Forest Lawn Mortuary, Cathedral City, Calif. 760-321-0994. The family suggests that donations be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital.
Published in The Desert Sun on 3/24/2009
 
Obituaries

GENE C. PETERSON

Des Moines

Gene C. Peterson, 85, died Sunday, March 29, 2009, at Trinity Center at Luther Park. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at Grand View Lutheran Church, 2930 E. 13th St. with burial at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon St.

Gene was born February 9, 1924, in New Market, Iowa to Marland and Ruby Peterson. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Gene worked as a pressman for Meredith Corporation until his retirement in 1986. He enjoyed fishing and working on cars. Gene volunteered for various organizations throughout his life and followed all of his grandchildren's activities. He was an active member of Grand View Lutheran Church. Gene loved his family, God and his country.

Gene is survived by his wife, Margaret Peterson; children, Greg Peterson, Jane (Bob) Keller and John (Sandra) Peterson; brother, Clair (Beverly) Peterson; half-sisters, Kathryn Strong, Violet Beem and Elaine Whitehead; grandchildren, John Jr., Shane, Jessica and Larissa; great-granddaughters, Madison and Peighton; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Naomi Gnade and half-brother, Donald "Jack" Winger.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grand View Lutheran Church or Hospice of Central Iowa.


 
Published 03 Apr 2009
The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa
 
Obituaries
Funeral services for Wilbur Siefering, age 102, of Clarinda, Iowa, who died Monday, March 30, 2009 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa were held Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Clarinda, Iowa with Pastor Nathan Dudley officiating.
Visitation with the family was held 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 3 at Ritchie Funeral Home. Burial was in the Polsley Cemetery, rural Yorktown, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Clarinda Lutheran School or Nodaway Valley Historical Museum.
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.
Wilbur Gerhard Siefering was born June 5, 1906 southwest of Clarinda on the family farm. He was the son of. Herman and Anna (Schmeiding) Siefering. His father had immigrated to Page County from Germany in 1870 at the age of 16. Wilbur grew up in Page County attending rural Long Branch School and Coin High School. He and his sister Lydia rode their pony to and from school. He was united in marriage to Alma Hilke on February 14, 1934 at Wakefield, Nebraska. They were blessed with two children, Lyle Alfred and Joyce Ann. Alma passed away June 7, 1961. On June 1, 1965, Wilbur was united in marriage to Bernean Droste. Bernean passed away August 11, 1965. On November 3, 1969, Wilbur was married to Minnie B. Kissinger Shockey and she passed away April 15, 1972. Wilbur was united in marriage to Evelyn Murken Haskell on June 18, 1976. Evelyn preceded him in death October 8, 2008.
Wilbur was a farmer in Page County. While farming, he was a member of the Page County Farm Bureau, serving as its President and was a voting delegate to the state. Wilbur retired to Clarinda in 1970 and became involved in community clubs and activities. Wilbur was a member of the Iowa Development Commission's tourism division. An active advocate of Iowa, he distributed thousands of tourism folders in his county. Wilbur was also a member of the Rotary Club.
Wilbur always liked to tinker and rebuild and used his talents to benefit the community. Among his many contributions is the refurbishing of the historic clock of the Page County Courthouse, formerly the Clarinda school tower clock which is now at the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum. He also refurbished the popcorn popper that is used by the Clarinda school district and the Clarinda Rotary Club. Wilbur was a charter member of the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum and remained active with the museum having served on its Board of Directors, building items needed and repairing problem spots in the building. Wilbur was proud of his family heritage in Page County that has resulted in a long family heritage of community service, faith and hard work.
He was baptized and confirmed and a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church. Wilbur could recount with much detail and feeling the church's survival of the tornado and the devastating fire that destroyed the church building.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Lyle Siefering and wife Becky of Oskaloosa, Iowa; daughter, Joyce Siefering of Madison, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Marty Siefering and Becky of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Myra Hart and husband John of Chicago, Illinois, Kevin Siefering and wife Sonia of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Paula Harpham and husband Kevin of Raleigh, North Carolina, six great grandchildren; step grandchildren, Todd Roach and wife Nannette of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Christopher Roach and wife Mollie of Oskaloosa, Iowa; and six step great grandchildren.

Preceding Wilbur in death were his parents; wives, Alma, Bernean, Minnie and Evelyn; sisters, Henrietta Siefering and Lydia Siefering Smith; son-in-law, Ken Runlee.
Ritchie Funeral Home
 
Published 22 Jul 2009
The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa

JAMES "JIM" CIRKSENA

Johnston

James "Jim" Cirksena, 74, passed away at his home Monday, July 20, 2009.

Jim was born October 7, 1934, in Bedford, IA, to Hank and Mozel Cirksena. He owned Jim's Auto Repair for many years. Jim loved to fly, owning a series of small planes over the years. He was a very active Shriner, flying children to and from the hospitals in Cincinnati and Chicago. Jim enjoyed vacationing in their plane and on their motorcycle.

Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Beverly; daughters, Rebecca (Ron) Young, of Urbandale and Laura (Lonnie) Schaffer, of Denver, CO; granddaughter, Kendra Cirksena; great-grandchildren, Adam James and Natalie; brother, David Cirksena, all of Des Moines; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cynthia; and his brother, Jon.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon St. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shrine Children's Hospitals so Jim's love for the children can continue on through his memory.

 
Private family interment of ashes for Phyllis M. Clark, 85, of Johnston, Iowa were held at Bedford Fairview Cemetery at 10:30 AM, May 10, 2014. Phyllis passed away January 2, 2014, at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston. Per her request, her body was cremated with no public memorial service.

Phyllis Mae Clark, the daughter of Hobart McKinley Clark and Elnora Marie Flynn Clark, was born on May 18, 1928, at Guthrie Center, Guthrie County, Iowa. Phyllis attended school in Menlo, Iowa, until 1939, when she moved to Bedford with her parents, two brothers and one sister. Phyllis graduated from Bedford High School in 1946. While in high school she was a BHS cheerleader; active in Pep Club; Glee Club; was a class officer; on the Torch staff and a member of the National Honor Society.

After high school graduation Phyllis moved to Des Moines, where she attended Drake University. Phyllis began her career as a legal secretary with "one of the finest firms in the state." She started out with Hansen & Wheatcraft in 1950 and worked for Steve Hansen throughout the time that she was with the firm, up until his death in 1995. The general practice firm gave Phyllis exposure to many areas, with her favorite and concentrated area being income tax and Probate. She truly enjoyed her work, those with whom she worked and meeting many interesting people. She especially found it rewarding to work with a number of elderly people; assisting them with their personal situations, errands, income tax or whatever they might need. Phyllis retired from Hansen, McClintock & Riley Law Firm the end of January 1998, after a long and fulfilling career spanning 48 years.

Phyllis was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Des Moines, where she attended regularly. She appreciated her pastor and church friends. Phyllis was a very caring and generous person; quietly giving to those in need. Phyllis was proud of her Irish heritage. She delighted in exploring her genealogy and was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She enjoyed many trips with her special friends with a favorite destination being Sanibel Island, Florida.

Phyllis loved feeding the deer, birds, squirrels and wildlife that came to her back yard. She had a love for animals; especially her precious cats who shared her life and home with her. They were her pride and joy and she enjoyed sharing their antics with others.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Howard Reed "Shorty" Clark and Dean Wandell Clark; a brother-in-law, Kenneth Wallace; a nephew, Alan Wallace; and a sister-in-law, Ruth Clark. Phyllis is survived by one sister, Maxine Wallace, of Stuart, Iowa; 4 nieces; 3 nephews; 19 great-nieces and nephews; 30 great-great nieces and nephews; and many special friends.

Phyllis' laugh, quick wit and generosity will be remembered by many.



Published in Des Moines Register on July 13, 2014
 
Donald Wyckoff

Des Moines

Donald LaVerne Wyckoff, 91, died July 7, 2014. A memorial visitation will be 2-4 p.m., Sunday, July 20, at Brooks South Town Chapel at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Donald LaVerne Wyckoff, the son of Arthur and Essica (Shehan) Wyckoff, was born July 20, 1922 in Bedford, Iowa. Following graduation from Bedford High School, he served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Donald was united in marriage with Olive J. Smith in California on Thanksgiving Day in 1943. He worked for several railroad companies, and retired from Rock Island.

Donald is remembered by his wife of 71 years, Olive; his children: Craig (Patricia) Wyckoff, Brent Wyckoff, and Tammy (Craig) Brookhart; twelve grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Misty. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Rowena Shimer; son, Richard Wyckoff; and daughter, Rhonda Putnam.





Published in Des Moines Register from July 9 to July 18, 2014
 
Gooding, Virginia Hunt - Virginia Gooding, 96, passed away Friday, August 22, 2014 at the Urbandale Health Care Center.

Virginia was born March 29, 1918 in rural Taylor County, Iowa, to John R. and Lois (Hanna) Hunt. She was a bookkeeper in the food service department for the Des Moines Public Schools for 16 years. Virginia was a member of Wakonda Christian Church for over 55 years. She was a wonderful mother who loved her family, and enjoyed tending to her plants and gardening at home with her husband Vern. They enjoyed retirement clubs and traveling for many years.

Virginia is survived by her children, Sue (Tom) Roberson, Nancy Brown and Terry (Carmen) Gooding; five grandchildren, Amy Brown, Bob Gooding, Bill (Amy) Gooding, Paige (Brent) Glendinning and Kelle (Matt) Hopson; great-grandchildren, Hannah and Blake Gooding, Tucker, Tate and Tyler Glendinning, Taylor Hopson and Georgia Gooding; siblings, Margie Wilson and Jack (Vera) Hunt; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Vernon Gooding and her sister, Verlee Cihak.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon Tuesday, August 26, 2014 at Hamilton's Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street followed by burial at Avon Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
 
Services for Marilyn Mutti, 84, Pella, Iowa, formerly of Hopkins, Missouri, will be held Friday, July 21, at Conception Abbey, Conception, Missouri at 10 a.m. with a lunch to follow at the Abbey. Burial will be at the Hopkins Cemetery at 2 p.m. A visitation will be held Saturday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Garden Chapel Funeral Home, Pella, with family present from 2-4 p.m.

Marilyn died June 10, at Pella Regional Hospital. She was born June 2, 1933, and was raised in Hopkins before moving to Pella in 2000 after the death of her husband George.
Published on the website of the Garden Chapel Funeral Home, Hopkins MO:
Marilyn Ann Mathers
TRIBUTE
Services for Marilyn Mutti, 84, Pella, Iowa, formerly of Hopkins, Missouri, will be held Friday, July 21, at Conception Abbey, Conception, Missouri at 10 a.m. with a lunch to follow at the Abbey. Burial will be at the Hopkins Cemetery at 2 p.m. A visitation will be held Saturday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Garden Chapel Funeral Home, Pella, with family present from 2-4 p.m.

Marilyn died June 10, at Pella Regional Hospital. She was born June 2, 1933, and was raised in Hopkins before moving to Pella in 2000 after the death of her husband George.

Marilyn graduated from Hopkins High School in 1951 and went on to earn French, German and English degrees at Northwest Missouri State College and a journalism degree from the University of Missouri. She taught at West Nodaway High School, Burlington Jct., Missouri, and Bedford (Iowa) Community High School and at Stephens College, Columbia, Missouri, and Central Methodist College, Fayette, Missouri. She worked for both The Hopkins Journal and The Bedford Times-Press. She most loved her time at Conception Abbey in public relations, a job she cherished most for the relationships it fostered. In her later years, she was a contributing columnist for The Hopkins Journal, Nodaway News-Leader and the Pella Chronicle. Her talents and interests included writing, journalistic work, collecting genealogy, knitting, reading and gourmet cooking.

Marilyn had a love for learning that never ceased. She remained intellectually curious throughout her life ... she never stopped challenging the status quo. Although she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in her late 30's, she bravely persevered through the struggles and pain the disease presented.

Survivors include son Joe Mutti (Peter Oramas), Orlando, Florida, and daughters Ann Visser, Pella, Iowa, and Melinda Mutti, Joliet, Illinois, along with granddaughters Lauren Mutti (Michelle Peak), Grand Prairie, Texas, Alexandra Mutti, New York City, New York, and Kaci Visser (Shane Cox), Knoxville, Iowa. A host of family and friends also honor her memory.

Preceding her in death were her husband George, her son-in-law Joe Fuller, her parents, Ruth (Corwin) and Beryl Ray Mathers, her sister, Helen Pearl (Mathers) Malone, and her nephew Michael Malone. 
 

Seaton, Norma Irene Sparks - Norma Irene Seaton (Sparks) was born in Bedford, Iowa July 13, 1938, the middle child to Gerald C. and Celia A. (Thompson) Sparks and passed away March 27, 2018. Per Irene's wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.

Irene wasn't just a Unit Clerk at Iowa Methodist Medical Center for 23 years, though she worked hard, rarely took a day off, and was incredibly proud of what she did. She was also an avid reader and movie lover, seamstress out of necessity, and a woman with an occasionally wicked sense of humor. A humor passed on to her daughters.

She spent time with her daughters as a Girl Scout troop leader, softball cheerleader and scorekeeper, and going swimming every summer. She taught them what they wanted to be, what they didn't want to be, how to thrift, and that SALE is the best four letter word.

Irene loved her grandchildren fiercely, had tremendous amounts of patience with them (as only a grandmother can), and was always proud of them. She adored the men her daughters married and welcomed them into the family with open arms.

After spending a winter with her sister in Arkansas, Irene decided to move there and stayed for five years. They went bowling (Irene read), to their own breakfast club, sewed quilts, played cards, and just enjoyed each other's company. She moved back to Iowa last year when her health required more consistent care.

The last year of Irene's life was filled with family, friends (old and new), stories about barns burning and motorcycle rides, and a whole lot of sass. Her wits and her wit were with her until the end. She got her bucket list items checked off with a haircut and a lobster dinner.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, brother and two sisters, and her oldest and favorite daughter Kathleen. She is survived by her daughters Sheila (David) Siler and Teresa (Michael) Brown, her granddaughter Jordan Siler, her grandson Dalton Siler, and her sister Joyce Nikolas.

Memorials in her honor can be sent to Murdock Funeral Home, 1420 Warford Street, Perry, IA, 50220 for a memorial item to be determined later for Ruby Van Meter School in Des Moines. Donations may also be sent to Easter Seals Camp Sunnyside in Iowa and national or local chapters of Down Syndrome Society, Special Olympics, or the Anxiety and Depression Society of America.

Published in Des Moines Register on Apr. 15, 2018

 
Willa King 91 of Des Moines passed away October 12. Visitation and services will be held October 17 at Brooks Funeral Home at 12:30 pm. Burial will be at 2:00pm at Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter. 

Willa was born in Bedford, IA September 8, 1927. She married Paul April 3, 1946. She was a seamstress at Van Ginkel for many years. Loved her flower garden and sewing, and was quite a stain glass artist and cook. 

Willa is survived by her husband Paul of 72 years, sons Lou (Pat), Larry (Karen), daughters Polly and Cheryl, son in law Greg Phillips, brothers Elvin, Ronnie and Elgin, grandsons Sean King and Paul Phillips (Lisa) and great grandchildren Destiny, Preslea, Sean Jr, Allison and extended family.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial may be directed to Kavanagh House on 56th Street, Des Moines.
Published in Des Moines Register on Oct. 14, 201
 
Richardson, Lowell
Lowell Richardson

Ames - His name was Lowell Richardson, but to us, he was Dad and Grandpa. Lowell Estle Richardson was born August 3, 1928, to James and Leta Richardson in Gravity, Iowa. He graduated from Bedford High School in Bedford, Iowa, in 1946. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1951 with a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. On April 29, 1950, he was united in marriage to Doris (Davault) Richardson in Creston, Iowa. 

He was employed at the DOT for 43 years. He was instrumental in the development of the Iowa Interstate System. He was awarded the IPWA Man of the Year Award in 1975. He retired as Director of the Office of Local Systems in 1993, and he was given the Special Services Award by the Iowa County Engineers Association. He was inducted as a "Hero" in the Iowa Transportation Hero's Center in 2014.

Lowell shared his love of antiques, gardening and traveling, with his wife, especially his variations of tomato plants. He loved playing and watching golf. He and his wife were charter members of The Ballard Golf and Country Club. He loved socializing with many friends from his coffee groups and was a member of the Kiwanis organization. 

He was a man of many accomplishments, but it was family that was very important to Lowell - especially the weekly Sunday family gatherings at his and Doris's home. He was an avid Cyclone fan. It was fitting that he passed peacefully surrounded by his family just minutes after a Cyclone football victory.

To the rest of the world, he was Lowell. To us, he was our beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Lowell is survived by his sons, Dan (Janet) Richardson of McCallsburg, Darrell Richardson of Ames, Tim (Deanna) Richardson of Bettendorf; grandchildren, Jody (Tim) Kelley, Andy (Amy) Richardson, Kirstin Richardson, Brad Richardson, Leita Richardson, Alicia Dollieslager, and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death his dearly loved wife, Doris, on September 16, 2018. Visitation will be from 5-7 pm Friday November 2, at Adams Funeral Home in Ames. Funeral service will be at 10:30 am Saturday, November 3, at Adams Funeral Home in Ames. Burial Service will follow at Story Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Ames.
 
Verla M. Loghry Stokely

Johnston formerly of Granger - Verla Maxine Stokely, 93, passed away March 18, 2019 at Bishop Drumm in Johnston. Visitation will be held from 5-7:00 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2019 at Iles Westover Chapel. Additional visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23, 2019 at the funeral home followed by a service beginning at 1:30 pm. Interment will be at Resthaven Cemetery, West Des Moines.

Verla was born January 18, 1926 in Taylor County, Iowa to parents, Ray and Ottie (Neal) Loghry. On March 1, 1958, she was united in marriage to David A. Stokely in Blockton, Iowa. In 1959, they made their home in Granger, where they raised their sons, Neal and Mark. She started working for Younkers in 1973 until her retirement in 1988. In Granger she was a member of the First Christian Church. She was active in the Women's American Legion Auxillary in Granger and Grimes. Later, Verla and David joined the First Presbyterian Church in Grimes.

Verla was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending her free time working in her garden, tending to her flowers and baking.

Verla is survived by her sons, Neal Stokely of Des Moines and Mark and his wife, Anne Stokely of Bondurant; three grandchildren, Randy (Ashley) Stokely, Rachel (Mike) Eggers and Elizabeth Stokely; two great grandchildren, Connor and Kylee Stokely and two brothers, Dale (Madelyn) Loghry and Robert (Marilyn) Loghry as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, David; siblings, Harry Loghry, Kathleen Stephens and Marcelene Gomez.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Mosaic in Central Iowa. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Published in Des Moines Register on Mar. 21, 2019
 
Knauer, Doris Rimel -
Doris R. Knauer, 94, died Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at Wesley Acres in Des Moines. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 17 at Iles Funeral Homes - Dunn's Chapel, Des Moines, Iowa. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 2019 at Wesley Acres Community Room. Burial will take place prior to the service, 12 p.m. Saturday at Glendale Cemetery.

Doris was born August 25, 1924 in Bedford, Iowa to George and Edna (Miller) Rimel. She was a graduate of Bedford High School and received a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Iowa. In 1947 Doris married Max Knauer and the couple moved to Des Moines in 1948. Doris was a Charter Member of St. John's United Methodist Church. Later in life, she enjoyed international travel. 

Survivors include her children: Max ( Kittie) Knauer III of Des Moines, Michael (Kathy) Knauer of Burlington, VT, Jennifer (Kim) Doughty of Clear Lake, Melody (Scott) Nelson of Des Moines, Melissa (Raymond) Bazley of Lexington, MO, Julia (Roger) Morgan of Durant, OK; 19 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren (with two more expected soon); four siblings, James (Betty) Rimel of Plymouth, IN, Joyce Metier of Fort Collins, CO, Warden Rimel of Austin, TX and Wardine (Dick) Riecks of Aurora, CO. 

Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Max, in 1991; infant daughter, Joydine; son-in-law, Robert "Bob" Cooper; brother-in-law, Ted Metier and sister-in-law, Sue Rimel. 

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Methodist Church or the Wesley Acres Good Samaritan Fund.

Published on Iles Funeral Home site on May 16, 2019

 
Shirley J. Mettille Robertson

Des Moines - Shirley J. Mettille Robertson died Monday, July 1, 2019 at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines. A memorial service will be held at Highland Park Christian Church on Friday, July 5, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. with burial at Highland Memory Gardens. Family will greet guests beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Shirley was the daughter of George and Vesta Goudie and was born and raised in Bedford, Iowa. After graduating from Bedford High School, Shirley moved to Des Moines and enrolled at The Iowa School of Beauty. She worked as a beautician for several years. Shirley married Joe Mettille in 1957. They were married 44 years before Joe's death in 2000. Shirley worked for Maurice's women's apparel store for 26 years before retiring. In 2002, Shirley married Reverend Jim Robertson. They were married for two years until his death in 2004.

Shirley is survived by her sons, Mike (Vicki) Mettille, Des Moines and Craig (JoEllen), Cedar Rapids; three grandchildren, Lindsay Mettille, Drew Mettille and Brooke Mettille, all of Des Moines; and two great grandchildren. She is also survived by three step children, Gwen (Dave) Oeth, Rochester, MN, Curt (Marty) Robertson, Greenville, WI, and Craig (Laura) Robertson, Ankeny, IA; eight step grandchildren; brother, Dean (Ann) Goudie, Bedford; sisters, Beverly Burroughs, Cedar Rapids, Imogene Goudie, Grimes, Pat (Ted) Cummins, Des Moines, Sandra (Allen) Campbell, Arvada, CO, and Virginia (Doug) Larsen, Polk City; and several nieces and nephews.

Shirley was a member of Highland Park Christian Church where she was a deaconess and deacon. She loved her church and enjoyed helping with funeral luncheons and assisting her husband, Jim, in his pastoral duties. She loved to travel, have lunch with her sisters, watching her grandson play baseball and just being with her grandchildren. In her earlier years with Joe, she enjoyed spending time at their cabin on Beech Lake. She simply enjoyed being around people. She was also an avid Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. After marrying Jim, she grew to love his family as much as her own. She will always be remembered by her strong faith, her generosity and her kindness to others. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Highland Park Christian Church.
Published in Des Moines Register on July 2, 2019
 
Panora - John F. Hammer, 91, of Panora, Iowa peacefully passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2020. John was born March 27, 1928 in Taylor County, Iowa to George and Lucile (Haidsiak) Hammer.

John was a lifelong hunter, fisherman, and lover of the outdoors. He and Arlene traveled the world, often accompanied by family and dear friends. John loved life. He had a wide circle of friends and was generous with his time, talents, and treasures.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene; and three children: Mike (Lori) of Panora, Pam (Steve) Stark of Wichita, KS, and Suzi of Urbandale. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren who loved him dearly, 7 great-grandchildren, and sisters: Ida Marshall of Apple Valley, CA, Gladys (Jack) Stauffer of Independence, MO, Charlotte Graves of Plano, TX, and Annabel Walkup of Mt. Ayr, IA , who was like a sister. He was preceded in death by his sisters Georgie Brunk and Mary Ann Harvey.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, at Merle Hay Funeral Home with entombment in Merle Hay Mausoleum. His family will greet friends beginning at 10:30.
Published in Des Moines Register from Jan. 30 to Feb. 2, 2020
 

Oleson, Marjorie "Marge" F. Adams - Marjorie "Marge" F. Oleson, 91, of Des Moines, Iowa, formerly of Springville, Iowa, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020, at Ramsey Village in Des Moines, Iowa. The family will greet friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2020, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Marion, Iowa. A service will follow at 2 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home, conducted by Pastor Sue Ellen Sherman. Burial will follow at the Springville Cemetery in Springville. All guests are respectfully requested to wear a face mask and practice social distancing. A livestream of the funeral service may be accessed on the funeral home website tribute page for Marge under "photos and videos", starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Marge was born May 23, 1929, in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of William and Weda (Eberhart) Adams. She graduated class of 1947 from Vinton High School in Vinton, Iowa. On July 27, 1952, Marge was united in marriage to Francis Oleson. To this union were born two sons, Jim and Jeff. Marge was a devoted mother and homemaker. She was a volunteer resident advocate for the Abbe Center for 25 years. Marge was an active member of the Springville United Methodist Church and the Paralta Embroidery Club. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Marjorie is survived and lovingly remembered by her two sons, Jim (Patricia) Oleson of Des Moines, Iowa, and Jeff (Debra) Oleson of Miami, Florida; six grandchildren, Ben (Aynsley) Oleson, Ashley (Andrew) Snodgrass, Melissa (Adin) Dzaferagic, Mark (Andrea) Oleson, Patrick Oleson, and Hope Oleson; two great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Noah Snodgrass; one brother, Russell Adams of Vinton; sister-in-law, LaVonne Adams of Marion; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Francis Oleson; two brothers, Thomas and Robert Adams; sisters-in-law, Donna Adams and Sue Anne Oleson.

Memorials in Marjorie's memory may be directed to the Springville United Methodist Church, 169 Broadway Street, Springville, Iowa, 52336.

Please share a memory of Marjorie at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries

 

Donald Robert Parsons

Norwalk - Donald Parsons, 86 of Norwalk, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 29, 2021 at the Regency Care Center in Norwalk.

He was born on July 21, 1934 to Merle and Maye Parsons in Bedford, Iowa.

He lived in Bedford before moving with his family to New Market, Iowa in 1948 where his parents ran the General Store and he completed High School.

He served in the US Air Force from 1955 to 1958, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant.

He served at Fairchild Air Force base in Spokane, Washington and in Guam.

He married Norma Sue Elswick of Lamoni, Iowa in October, 1960 and they had two children; Donald Lee Parsons (Gina) of St. Peters, Mo., and the late Donna Sue Parsons of Iowa City, Iowa.

He worked for Braniff Airlines in Omaha, Neb., was an independent insurance agent in New Market, Iowa, and later an Underwriter for Hawkeye-Security Insurance Co. in Des Moines, retiring from Continental Western Insurance in Des Moines.

Don was an avid reader and also enjoyed hunting, fishing, bird watching, history, and genealogy. He was a Certified Flight Instructor and restored a Piper Super Cruiser.

He is survived by a brother, Richard Parsons of New Market, Iowa; son Donald Lee (Gina), and two grandchildren, Skyler, and Lindsay, all of St. Peters, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Norma Sue Parsons, and daughter Donna Sue Parsons.

Graveside services will take place in the summer at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa.

Billy Bernard Mercer was born April 15, 1930 in Taylor County, Iowa near the town of Clearfield. He passed away on August 21, 2022 at Edencrest at Green Meadows in Johnston, Iowa. Bill was the youngest of eight children born to Orie D. and Bessie (Curry) Mercer. His siblings were Edna, Cecil, Elgin, Edwin, Nellie, Marion and a brother who died in infancy. He grew up on farms in Taylor and Ringgold counties & attended one-room country schools through 8th grade. He attended high school in Delphos, Iowa, dropping out to work at age 16. He later received his GED diploma at SWCC in Creston, Iowa in October 1967.

Bill was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1951 and received his honorable discharge in 1953. While serving, he was called home from Fort Meade, Maryland by the death of his mother. He also served at Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Fort Bliss in El Paso, TX. A highlight of his military service was participating in the inaugural parade of President Eisenhower in Washington D.C.

On March 6, 1954, Bill married Norma Rice of Mount Ayr, Iowa at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. To this union two daughters were born, Kathryn Marie and LeAnn Renee. Bill and Norma made their home in Mount Ayr until the fall of 1957 when they moved to Creston and opened their own business, Mercer Conoco Service Station on the corner of Elm and Mills. Later, he owned Mercer DX Service Station and Tank Wagon Service on Adams Street until selling the business in 1981.

Bill enjoyed many different occupations in his lifetime: heavy equipment (bulldozer) operator in a limestone rock quarry, lineman for the REC and ISU, electrician, farmer, charter pilot, flight instructor, licensed airplane mechanic and over-the-road truck driver besides running the service station and tank wagon service for almost 25 years. He usually worked 2 or 3 jobs at the same time.

Bill was a member of the Elks Lodge in Creston, member of the First Christian Church, served on the City Council in Creston in the late 1960's, was a Flying Farmers member, a member of Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) and Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA).

In 1971, Bill and Norma moved to the country, west of Creston, to fulfill Bill's dream of having an airstrip and airplane hangar at home! Flying was his PASSION! He had been a private pilot since 1960 and owned 30 planes throughout his life. He enjoyed charter flights and flying for pleasure all over the United States. In the 1980's he was able to take a dream trip by flying his own plane to Alaska!

Bill and Norma enjoyed 25 winters in Apache Junction, AZ from 1981 to 2006. They had many friends from all over the United States and Canada. He loved to travel and had been to every state except Hawaii. He had also traveled in Mexico and Canada. Bill enjoyed deer and elk hunting in Colorado with a lifelong friend from his Army days, along with other friends and family. Additional hobbies included snowmobiling, motorcycling, and square dancing. He loved teaching his grandsons how to drive the tractor and pick-up, to fly, target shoot and about gun safety. He truly enjoyed the time spent with his granddaughters and loved to tease and watch their antics. His inner child came out when his great-grandchildren were born and he often had a baby in his lap at family gatherings. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and provided well for his family.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Kathy (Daryl) Leffler of Urbandale, IA, grandsons David (April) Leffler of Urbandale, IA, and Kevin (Jen) Leffler of Manning, IA, granddaughters Cori Leffler of Urbandale, IA and Lizzy Garcia of El Paso, TX, seven great-grandchildren, Violet and Evelyn Leffler of Urbandale, IA, Ada, Greta, August, and Nora Leffler of Manning, IA and Arianna Garcia of El Paso, TX, many nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Norma on April 22, 2022, his parents, siblings, daughter LeAnn Mercer in 2019 and granddaughter Katie Leffler in 2021.

Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Creston, Iowa 50801


Alice Elizabeth Duff, 88, went to her Heavenly Home on July 30, 2023, at Bickford of Urbandale under hospice care. She was born at home on February 6, 1935, to her parents Otto and Mary (Wailes) Sage in Bedford, Iowa. She married Darrell G Duff on March 6, 1955, - to this union they had four children and were married for 50 years.

Alice is survived by her loving daughters, Linda Duff of Altoona, IA, Diana (David) Harwell of New Virginia, IA and Julie (Kevin) Berg of Ames, IA and daughter-in-law, Katie Duff of Bloomington, MN. She has 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Darrell Duff; her son, Darrell Dean Duff; parents, Otto and Mary Sage; brothers Kenneth, Dwayne and Dwight Sage.

Her memorial service will be held Friday, August 4, 2023 at Hamilton's near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 N.W. 60th Avenue Des Moines, Iowa. Family will greet friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with memorial service beginning at 12:00 p.m.

For full obituary and to leave a condolence please visit www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

 

 

Nancy Lorraine Fenton, 76, passed away on September 5, 2023 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines surrounded by her family. Nancy was born on September 25, 1946, in Bedford, Iowa to Gerald D. "Bud" and Bonnie Powers. Nancy lived in or near Kellerton, Iowa during her youth and graduated from Grand Valley High School in 1964. She moved to Des Moines to begin working in the subscription department of Look Magazine.

While in Des Moines, she met the love of her life, her husband Carl "Ed" Fenton. The couple were married in 1966. They settled in the Des Moines area, eventually residing in Urbandale. Nancy was a homemaker for several years until returning to the workforce and serving as a church secretary at St. Stephens Lutheran, Urban Heights Covenant Church, and Glen Echo Christian Church over the span of a quarter-century. She and Ed enjoyed their retirement years until Ed's passing in 2015. Nancy enjoyed reading, cooking, and gardening, and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs. She was an excellent pianist. She was a woman of faith who attended Glen Echo Christian Church for a number of years. She also greatly loved animals, cherishing dachshunds OJ and Charlie who predeceased her, and her granddogs Leo, Oliver, Louis, Layla, Toby, and Andy.


Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Bud and Bonnie Powers of Kellerton; her father- and mother-in-law Carl and Velda Fenton of Osceola; her brother, Ronnie Powers of Harlan, and a host of other relatives
.
Nancy is survived by her two children – Joel (Aileen) of Urbandale and Kelly Coleman (Scott) of Urbandale. Her grandchildren are Maxwell Fenton of Iowa City; Alexandra Fenton of St. Louis, MO; Lindsay Coleman of Waukee; Jackson Coleman of Urbandale; and Abigail "Abby" Coleman of Urbandale. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Betty Powers of Harlan, and lifelong friends Lila Riley of Urbandale and Alice Minthorn Hall of Overland Park, KS.


At Nancy's request, no services are planned. A private family burial will be at Chapel Hill Gardens and Cemetery in Urbandale, Iowa at a later date. Memorials should be directed to the family to support the many charities Ed and Nancy supported over the years. No plants or flowers are requested.