Lenox, Taylor County, Iowa obituaries
transcribed by: Lorelei Rusco - lorerus@iowatelecom.net
 
 

Ashman, Minnie Irene Wurster -

Graveside services for  Minnie Ashman, age 88, of Lenox, who died Saturday,

April 14, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Tuesday, April 16, 2007 at

3 p.m. at the Beacon Cemetery in Beacon, Iowa. Memorials can be given in

Minnie's name. Minnie is the sister of Ruth Reynolds of Lenox. Memories

can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com

under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home

of Lenox.

Minnie Irene Ashman was born July 14, 1918, on a farm, two miles west of Lenox,

the daughter of John F. Wurster and Mary E. (Lee) Wurster. At the age of fifteen,

she worked in a nursing home in Oskaloosa, Iowa for ten years. Minnie then moved to

Louisville, Kentucky where she was Foreman of Spaulding and Sons Laundry for seven

years. She was converted at the Walnut Street Baptist Church in 1943, In 1951, after

World War II, she moved back to Oskaloosa and worked at Pella Rollscreen Plant

in Pella for twenty-five years until her retirement. She was a member of the Christian

Church in Lenox. Minnie was united in marriage to William G. Ashman, Sr., in 1958, at the

Westminster Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. Following the death of her husband

in 1984, Minnie moved back to her home town of Lenox in 1987.

Minnie's favorite times were spent caring for her home and being with her

children and grandchildren. She loved being outdoors with nature and especially enjoyed

the birds. Her favorite pastime was listening to music and reading her Bible. Minnie also

enjoyed cooking, her dogs and always looked forward to Sunday afternoon drives.

Left to cherish Minnie's memory are her sister, Ruth Reynolds of Lenox; a sister-in-

law, Mary Wurster of Lenox; four step-sons, William Ashman, Jr., and wife Leona

of Oskaloosa; Robert Ashman and wife Martha of East Dubuque; Brice Ashman and

wife Margaret of Des Moines; and Gordon Ashman and wife Teresa of Indianola; a

stepdaughter, Wilda Current and husband Bob of Indianola; a stepdaughter,

Wilda Current and husband Bob of Indianola; twelve step-grandchildren;

several step-great grandchildren; and many step great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Minnie in death are her parents, John and Mary Wurster; her husband,

William Ashman; a sister, Dorothy Crisp; two brothers, Russell and Clifford Wurster;

and one sister-in-law, Irene Wurster.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 18, 2007

 

Brown, Kenneth Truman -

Kenneth Truman Brown, 90, Grant City, passed away Friday, April 20, 2007 at St.

Francis Hospital, Maryville, Mo.

Kenneth was born Nov. 2, 1916, the son of Allie and Hazel Brown at Blockton,

Iowa. He was married to Virginia Lee Wyman Feb. 5, 1938 at Troy, Kan. She

preceded him in death Oct. 28, 1996.

Kenneth and Virginia resided on a farm east of Bedford, Iowa until moving to

Grant City in 1953. Kenneth was employed by Dalbey Lumber Company, State

Highway Department, and later by Firestone Tire Company, Topeka, Ks., retiring

in 1981. He had resided at Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center since October 2006.

Kenneth was preceded in death by parents; his wife of 58 years; two children in

infancy, Donald Lee and Betty Lou; sister, Mildred Norris, brother Elton Brown, and

great-great-granddaughter, Hailey Grace Rowan.

Survivors include daughter, Phyllis and Gary Nally, Maryville, Mo. and Bonita and

Bill Farrell, Smithville, Mo.; six grandchildren, Lisa and Mark Dalton, Bedford,

Chris and Amy Nally, Maryville, Kelly and Jennifer Farrell, St. Peters, Mo., Julia

and Scott Bargman, Jodi and Charlie Green, and Troy and Shellie Farrell,

Smithville; 14 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; sister, Maona

Stermole, Mt. Ayr, Iowa, brothers, Laverne and Annabel Brown, Bedford and

Rex and Bernice Brown, Blockton; and, sister-in-law, Jodene Brown, Clearfield.

Services were held Monday, April 23 at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant

City. Burial was in Rose Hill cemetery, Blockton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SSM Hospice/Mount Ayr, in

care of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, 200 South Front St., Grant City, Mo. 64468.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

Brown, Leo Francis -

Funeral services for Leo Brown, age 63 of Bedford were held Wednesday, April

18, 2007 at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation was held Tuesday from 12:00

Noon to 8:00 p.m. with the family greeting friends from 6:00 to 8:00. Burial with

military rites was held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. In lieu of flowers,

the family requests memorials be directed to the Hospice of Central Iowa or the Bedford

Ambulance Service. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at

www.ritchiefuneralhome.com by clicking on obits. Arrangements were entrusted

to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Leo Francis Brown, oldest son, and third child, of Francis Glenn and Hazel Mary

(Strong) Brown. He was born in the family home in Marshall Township, near Conway, Iowa

on October 24, 1943.

He grew up attending Marshall*#4 Country School through the 8th grade. He

then attended high school in Bedford until the end of 10th grade. Needing help on the

family farm, he decided to quit school and help his dad on the farm. Feeding cattle,

milking cows, row crop and raising a few hogs was part of his responsibilities. This started

Leo in the farming business at a young age.

In 1965 he signed up for the National Guard with the Clarinda Unit, being discharged in 1972.

In May of 1966, he asked Carolyn Wheeler to marry him, and on November 27th of that

year they were united in marriage at the United Methodist Church in Bedford.

To this union there were three children born, Brenda Kay in May of 1967, Randall Leo in

July of 1968, and Todd Alan in September of 1976.

Leo and Carolyn began their married life on a farm in Marshall Township, on the Lois

Payne place, 1/4 mile south of his folks. In 1969, they moved to a farm east of Conway,

owned by Everett Bolinger. They resided there until the spring of 1974, when they

purchased 280 acres from Ray and Dorothy Glass in Benton Township, north of Bedford.

They expanded their farming operation to many more acres and lots of cattle and hogs.

Leo was a very prominent member of the Taylor County Pork Producers as he and

Cecil Beery participated in grilling meat at several county activities. Other organizations

he belonged to included: Taylor County Cattlemen's Association, Taylor County

Fair Board, Bedford Lions Club, the Elks Club in Maryville, Missouri, John F. Hardin

American Legion Post #164 (Bedford) and a past ASCS township committee member.

He was currently serving as a Benton Township trustee. Leo was a seed dealer for many

years, having sold for McCubbin, DeKalb, Cheeseman, Stine, Renze, Garst, NC+ and Patriot.

Leo and Carolyn enjoyed square dancing in their early married years and he also

enjoyed playing cards, family get-togethers and traveling, especially their trips to Las

Vegas with sister, Charlene and her husband, Al. He always looked forward to playing

games and cards with his granddaughters, Kerri and Kaitlyn. Even through his

seven year battle with cancer, in which he fought so courageously to the end, he

still enjoyed having company come by to visit, especially the past few months. He would

continue to share his sense of humor, even on the bad days. He so loved the farming and

raising livestock aspect of his life, and has passed those talents on to his two sons,

Randy and Todd. Even though his illness kept him inside, he was still very much involved

in the decisions of the farming and livestock operation.

Brenda lovingly devoted much of her time the past several years taking her dad to and

from all of the doctor appointments, even changing from the day shift at her job,

to the night shift, so her mother could continue to work.

Leo and Carolyn celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on November 27, 2006, in

which their children held an open house for them. Leo was truly honored to share this

time with his friends and family.

Leo, age 63, was welcomed into heaven on April 14, 2007. He passed away at his

home at 12:15 am with his loving wife, Carolyn, his children, Brenda, Randy and

Todd (wife, Jennifer), two granddaughters, Kerri and Kaitlyn and many other family

members and special friends by his side.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Carolyn; his children, Brenda

McMillin, Randy Brown, Todd Brown (wife Jennifer); granddaughters, Kerri and

Kaitlyn McMillin; his mother, Hazel Brown, all of Bedford, Iowa; sister, Shirley Cramer,

Connersville, Indiana; sister, Charlene Beckman (husband, Al, Omaha, Nebraska

brother, Gary (wife, Nancy) Gravity, Iowa and sister, Gayle Houk (husband, Ellis),

Bedford, Iowa; sister-in-law, Barb Gaddis (husband, Gene), Des Moines, Iowa;

brother-in-law, Eldon Wheeler, Brooksville, Florida; nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles

and a host of cousins.

Preceding Leo in death are his father, Francis G. Brown (2002), mother-in-law,

Marjorie Wheeler (2002), father-in-law, Orvis Wheeler (2004), brother, Gordon Lee

Brown (1961) and brother-in-law, Ron Cramer (2006).

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

Brumfield, Sharon Jean -

Funeral Services for Sharon Brumfield, age 55 of the Bedford / Creston and Gravity

areas who died Sunday, April 8, 2007 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center

were held Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford.

Interment was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in her

name. Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com

under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Sharon Jean Brumfield was born February 13, 1952, in Maryville, Missouri the daughter

of Elgin Gene Brumfield and Oney Mae (Hopple) Brumfield. She grew up in the Gravity area

and attended school in Bedford where she completed her schooling in 1971.

Sharon moved to Creston in 1975 where she worked at Innovative Industries for many years.

In 1975 Sharon started participating in the Special Olympics where she won several metals

and ribbons.  She attended Camp Sunnyside in Des Moines since 1970. She always enjoyed

her time at Camp where she experiences many activities such as horseback riding, swimming

and dances.

Sharon was a huge fan of Elvis Presley her entire life.  She had a large collection of Elvis

memorabilia and enjoyed listening to his music. Sharon had the opportunity in the spring

of 2006, to make the trip to Memphis with her close friend, Lynnett Gross, to take in

'all of the Elvis sights'. In Sharon's words, "it was a trip of a lifetime!"

Left to cherish Sharon's memory are her mother, Oney Mae Brumfield; three brothers,

Rick Brumfield and wife Deloris; Randy Brumfield and wife Lydia, all of Gravity; Paul

Brumfield and wife Sue of Redding, Iowa; a sister, Karla Brumfield of Gravity, a

grandmother Susie Hopple of Bedford, four nieces, Amber Bix and husband

Jeremi of Sheridan, Missouri, and Mandy Brumfield and partner Jesse Beemer of

Gravity, Kimberly Brumfield of Des Moines, Dakota Brumfield of Redding, two nephews

Dalton Brumfield of Redding and Adam Brumfield of Gravity, great nieces and nephews,

Brittany, Tyler and Darren Bix of Sheridan, Missouri; Morgan and Hayden Beemer of

Gravity; aunts and uncles, Helen Galloupe of Neosho, Missouri; Robert Hopple and wife

Nonie of Gravity; Willa King and husband Paul of Des Moines; Neoma Brumfield of

Waukee and Doris Brumfield of Beaumont, Texas; along with many cousins and friends.

Preceding Sharon in death are her father, Elgin Gene Brumfield; grandparents Bert

Brumfield, Anna Black and Charles Hopple; and a stepfather, Jack Bailey.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 11, 2007

 

Gray, Paul Gene -

Funeral services for Paul Gray, age 79 of Clearfield, formerly of Blockton who died

Sunday, April 8, 2007, at his home in Clearfield were held Thursday, April 12, 2007,

at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation was held Wednesday

from 4:00 to 8:00 with the family greeting friends from 6:00 to 8:00. Burial was

held in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton. Memorials can be given in Paul's name.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Paul Gene Gray was born August 30, 1927, to Boyd Dean Gray and Gladice Marrie

(Fish) Gray, in Hopkins, Missouri.

Paul grew up in a family dedicated to farming, and he attended various country

schools. In the early 1940's, he was stationed in Berlin, Germany in World War II.

He was discharged April 14, 1947.

Upon his returning home he joined his brother, Beryl Dean Gray, beginning a

farming partnership that lasted  for many years. Paul met Dona Mae Williams and was

united in marriage on April 4, 1953 in Villisca, Iowa. To this union three children

were born: Carolyn, Barbie, and Deb.

Paul was a dedicated farmer, loving husband, daddy, grandpa, and friend to many.

He enjoyed horses, camping, hunting, fishing, music, playing cards and looked forward to

the spring calving season, but most of all his loving family. Paul vacationed with his wife

and children during summer breaks to various popular areas. Once his children were

raised, he and Dona Mae became "snow birds, traveling south for the winters.

Paul was a member of American Legion, Clearfield Lions, Bedford Saddle Club,

Neighborhood card parties, Campfire Sam's Club, and also participated in Redding

Country Music. One of Paul's favorite past times was camping with the Clearfield

Lions Club, while driving shuttle busses at the Iowa State Fair.

On April 18, 1995, after forty two-years of marriage, Paul was left to cherish the

loving memory of his wife, Dona Mae.

Companionship was found in a long time neighbor, Donna Marie (Freemyer) Stewart.

They were united in marriage on April 16, 1998. Paul gained four loving step-children,

thirteen grandchildren, and twenty-five great grand children. This union joined two

families with lots of love and laughter. Paul and Donna enjoyed several years

traveling south for the winter and camping in the summer.

Paul entered into rest at his home in Clearfield, Iowa on April 8, 2007, with Donna

at his side.

Left to cherish his memory, three loving daughters: Carolyn (Gray) Brell and husband

William Brell of Lake of the Ozarks, Barbara Gray and companion Karl Fenton of Indianola,

and Debra (Gray) Davenport and husband Eric Davenport of Blockton, and his devoted

wife, Donna Stewart-Gray. Grandchildren include, April and husband Josh Wilson,

Heather (Davenport) and husband Chad Puhrmann, Carl Trujillo, Tracey (Davenport)

and husband Josiah Rusk, Dustin Cribbs, and Tony Trujillo. Step-Children include: Dan

and Lila Stewart, Dave and Carol Stewart, Linda and Jack DeFreece, and Amy and Doug

Williams.

Preceding Paul in death, were his parents: Boyd and Gladice, wife Dona Mae,

brother Beryl, and sisters Marcilline and Lorrane.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 18, 2007

 

Hanson, Velma Faye Leonard Lind -

Velma Faye Leonard Lind Hanson of Clearfield was born August 13, 1917 in her parent's

farm home in Ringgold County, Iowa. She graduated from Diagonal High School in

1936 and enjoyed celebrating her 70th class reunion last May with seven classmates.

Velma married Howard Vincent Lind of Harcourt, Iowa July 22, 1939 in Clearfield. They

farmed near Clearfield, Iowa.

Four children were born to this union, Carolyn Kay, Maria Faye and twin sons, Morton

and Martin, who died shortly after birth.

Velma was a hard working farmwife, milking cows, planting a big garden, feeding the hogs,

raising chickens, and gathering eggs to help feed the family. Canning and freezing food and

cooking for farmhands were part of her life as a daughter, wife and mother. She belonged

to a close-knit family including her husband, Howard, daughters Kay and Maria, parents,

Jennie (Kopp) and Ralph Leonard, Brother Donovan and wife, Rosemary and their children

Julaine, Jennie Jeanne, Linden, Lyle, Larry, Ricky and Ronny. They all worked together with

special days in the summer of cleaning chickens and freezing corn, She was famous for her

potato salad and butterhorn rolls.

Velma enjoyed driving a bus for the Clearfield School for several years,

Howard Lind passed away in 1959. In 1962 Velma married Maurice Henning Hanson and moved

to his farm east of Clearfield. They enjoyed going to Texas for the winter for seventeen years.

They also enjoyed camping and fishing with friends and grandchildren.

Maurice and Velma spent Sunday nights playing bridge with Doc and Annabelle Thomson

and later with Doc and Mona.

Her children and grandchildren were the highlights of her life. Visits and phone calls from them

brightened up her days.

Velma was a member of the Clearfield Methodist Church, a 50-year member of Eastern Star,

Lionells, Entrenous Bridge Club, and enjoyed bowling leagues at the Clearfield Bowling Alley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Jennie (Kopp) Leonard; husbands Howard

and Maurice, infant sons, Martin and Morton; brother Donovan and wife Rosemary Leonard;

sisters and brothers-in-law Evelyn and Sonny Burger, Elna Mae and Bill Rabbitt, Erma and

Cliff Wing, Marjorie and Bill Redman, Maxine and Lorence Hanson, Dorothy and Paul Brummett,

 and Arlene and Marvin Orme.

Velma is survived by daughters Carolyn Kay (husband John) Thomson of Ames, and Maria Faye

(husband Dale) Bickel of Clearfield; step-children, Sandra (husband Don). Whitmore of Conroe,

Texas and Randall (wife Carol) Hanson of Waukee, IA; grandchildren Vincent Dale (wife Mary)

Bickel of Gordon, NE, Daniel Ulan (wife Cindy) Thomson of Riley, KS, Brenda Faye (husband Craig)

Willis of Benton, IA, David John (wife Carmen) Thomson of Council Bluffs, IA, Brian Louis (wife

Robyn) Bickel of Clearfield; step-grandchildren Brent (wife Teresa) Whitmore of Fresco,

TX, Jeff Whitmore of New York, NY, Matthew (wife Laura) Hanson of Onolaska, WI, Greg

(wife Amy) Hanson of Seattle, WA; brother-in-law Dale (wife Marietta) Hanson of Clarinda,

IA; 19 greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and special cousin Marjorie Payne of

Benton, IA.  [Burial in Clearfield Cemetery]

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

Holmes, Ivan (Ike) Haldane -

Funeral services for Ivan "Ike" Holmes, age 85 of Lee's Summit, Missouri, formerly of

Lenox and Sharpsburg, who died Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at the Crown Care Center

in Harrisonville, Missouri were held Monday, April 16,2007 at 11 a.m. at the Ritchie

Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment with military rites accorded by the Parkinson

American Legion Post No. 250 of Lenox were held in the Bedford City Cemetery.

Memorials can be directed to the Lenox American Legion. Memories can be shared

with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Ivan "Ike" Haldane Holmes was born September 8, 1921, in Blockton, Iowa the

son of Loren Holmes and Josephine (Trager) Holmes. He grew up attending school

and graduated from the Blockton High School. On August 17, 1941, he was united

in marriage to Edythe M. Ledgerwood in Maryville, Missouri; they shared 65

wonderful years together.

Ivan faithfully served his country during World War II through the United States

Army in the 103rd Reconnaissance Troop, as a Technical 5th Grade from December

1942 until November of 1945, driving reconnaissance vehicles. During the late 1940's,

Ike owned a trucking business in Lenox and in the '50's and '60's he served as an assistant

Scout leader for Troop 46. He then worked for General Motors in Kansas City, Kansas

for several years, retiring from the Navajo Freight Lines after 20 plus years as a local

delivery driver.

Ivan and Edythe moved back to Sharpsburg to 'get out of the city' so he could hunt

when he wanted to hunt! Ivan was always busy helping his friends on their farm. He was

active in the Clearfield Lion's Club and the Lenox American Legion. For many years, Ivan

and Edythe went to the Iowa State Fair to help run the shuttle busses from the camp

grounds to the fair grounds. This was truly something he enjoyed and looked forward to

each and every year! Ivan enjoyed inventing and making many tricks and gadgets,

especially if it was a tool he couldn't or didn't want to buy. For many years, Ivan and

Edythe enjoyed visiting with his army buddies at their 103rd Army reunions.

Left to cherish Ivan's memory are his loving wife of 65 years, Edythe Holmes who

is also living in the Crown Care Center in Harrisonville, Missouri; two sons, Don

Holmes and wife Judy of Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Ron Holmes of Independence,

Missouri; a daughter, Connie Combs and husband Steve of Independence, Missouri; a

sister, Genevieve Eckert of Granada Hills, California; nine grandchildren; eighteen

great grandchildren along with many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Ivan in death are his parents; a son, Jon; a brother Cecil; and five sisters,

Gladys, Opal, Doris, Helen and Margaret.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 18, 2007

 

Lockwood, Marcella (Sally) Davis -

Private family memorial services for Marcella "Sally" Lockwood, age 84 of Corning,

who died Monday, April 16, 2007, at the Greater Community Hospital in Creston

will be held at a later date. Memorials can given in Sally's name and mailed to 809

5th Street, Corning, IA 50841. Memories can be shared with the family on our

web page www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements

were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Marcella "Sally" (Davis) Lockwood was born April 6, 1923, in Quincy, Iowa the

daughter of Harold Davis and Gladys (Geary) Davis. She grew up in the Carbon and

Quincy areas attending school. On April 14, 1940, Sally was united in marriage

to Marvin Lockwood.

Sally worked for many years in Bedford for the O'Brian sewing factory. She

later worked at Turner's Clothing Store in Corning before her retirement. She

enjoyed playing cards, especially Rummy, and going to Prairie Meadows. She was

also in the Corning Women's Bowling League for many years. Every Thursday, Sally

looked forward to going to Claudia Cullen's Styling House in Massena. She also

enjoyed shopping in Creston every Saturday when she was able to and eating breaded

loins from the McGrill. She enjoyed planting flowers every summer; especially Snap

Dragons, and always looked forward to getting the camper out and spending time

at Lake Binder.

Left to cherish Sally's memory are a grandson, Eric Lockwood; six greatgrandsons,

Jacob Best and wife Jennifer of Creston; Maxx Lockwood, Edward Schultz, Rider

Parsons and Alexx Lockwood; a great great granddaughter, Amanda Busch; two

nephews, Darwin McKee and wife Jerry; and Scott McKee and wife Karen;

along with great-nieces and nephews, Stacy and Jason McKee; Faaron Drager and

Carole Olds.

Preceding Sally in death are her parents Harold and Gladys Davis; her husband

Marvin Lockwood in February of 2007; a son, Richard Marvin Lockwood; two sisters,

Betty Joann Davis and Marvel Davis McKee and husband Byron McKee; a brother,

Darwin Dean Davis; a granddaughter, Debra Lockwood Parsons; and other

family members, Edward Bridge; Lottie (Dot) Bridge and Candice Olds.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

McCune, Harold Butler -

Funeral services for Harold McCune, age 90 of Bedford, who died Wednesday,

April 11, 2007 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Saturday,

April 14, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation

was held Friday from 3 to 8 with the family greeting friends from 7 to 8.

Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion

Post No. 164 were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be

given in Harold's name. Memories can be shared with the family on

our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements

were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Harold Butler McCune was born July 10, 1916, in Page County, near Villisca, Iowa

the son of Samuel Young McCune and Ethel (Butler) McCune. He grew up attending

country schools and later attended the Villisca High School. Later the family

moved to a farm southeast of Clarinda where he helped his father on the family

farm. He met Pauline Glass when she would spend time with Harold's sisters. On

November 1, 1941, Pauline and Harold were united in marriage in Rockport,

Missouri. In 1945, Harold was drafted into the United States Navy where he

 honorably served his country during World War II in the South Pacific Theatre.

After his discharge in 1946, he and Pauline lived in Clarinda where Harold drove a

cab and Pauline taught school. In 1950, they moved to a farm near Bedford where

Harold farmed for several years, moving into Bedford in 1955.

In 1951, Harold and Pauline lost a son, Allen Paul in infancy. Then in 1956, they

were blessed with the birth of their daughter Rebecca Ann. Harold went to work

at Jack Beaver's Dairy as a delivery driver and later worked for Lucas Feeds as a

truck driver for over twenty-seven years, retiring in 1978. Harold and Pauline

continued to live in Bedford after their retirement.

Harold loved to play Bingo. He enjoyed the outdoors, gardening and fishing

whenever he could. Harold always looked forward to vacations and had traveled

around the United States, later in life Harold enjoyed vacationing with Rebecca

and her family. He appreciated his cars, as long as they were Fords, and  he was

known to trade them every two years! When his grandchildren came along, Harold

became a fulltime grandpa, a position that brought him great pleasure and joy, and

truly enjoyed helping his son-in-law, Craig on the farm. Harold was a 50 year

member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church; a 50 year member of

the Masonic Lodge; along with being a member of the VFW and the John F. Hardin

American Legion.

Left to cherish Harold's memory is his loving wife of 66 years Pauline McCune of

Bedford; his daughter Rebecca Ann Donaldson and husband Craig of Lenox; and

two granddaughters, Deanna Donaldson of Dallas Center, Iowa; and Chelsie Zech and

husband Dan of Clarinda; along with a community of friends.

Preceding Harold in death are his parents; his infant son Allen Paul; and four sisters,

Marjorie Winger, Virginia Shannon, Darlene McCune and Pauline Flynn.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 18, 2007

 

McFee, Mary Deloris Purviance -

Funeral services for Mary McFee, age 87, of Lenox, who died Friday, March 23, 2007 at her

home, were held Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Lenox United Presbyterian

Church. Visitation was held Tuesday from 3:00 to 8:00 with the family greeting friends from

7:00 to 8:00 at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Interment was held at the North Fairview

Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be directed to the Lenox United Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Mary Delores (Purviance) McFee was born January 4, 1920 to Frank Willet Purviance and

Estelle Irene (Sink) Purviance. She grew up on her parents' farm west of Cromwell, Iowa and

attended Cromwell schools, graduating with the Class of 1937 in Cromwell.

On August 31, 1940 she was united in marriage in Rockport, Missouri to Kenneth Darwin

McFee, a union that lasted 64 years until Kenneth's death in 2004.

Mary was an avid gardener and enjoyed her flowers and canning and freezing vegetables.

For forty years she helped with the operation of McFee Brothers Bowl in Lenox along with

Kenneth, his brother, Wayne and sister-in-law Rexine. She enjoyed bowling and enjoyed

watching all sports, though she didn't always agree with the officiating. She was an active

member of the Lenox United Presbyterian Church, being a member for nearly 60 years and

serving in several capacities.

Left to cherish Mary's memory are her son Terry McFee of Phoenix, Arizona, her son

Galen McFee and wife Sharleen of Goshen, Indiana, four grandchildren, two great

granddaughters, sisters Ruby Flora of Ames, Iowa, Thelma Miller of Lone Tree, Iowa, Lucille

Veatch of Lamar, Colorado and a host of friends and relatives.

Preceding Mary in death are her parents, her husband Kenneth, and three brothers

Fred, Dale, and Glen Purviance.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 11, 2007

 

Nook, Lena Pauline Stogdill Shepherd -

Funeral services for Lena (Shepherd) Nook, age 94, of Lenox, who died Monday, April

2, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Wednesday, April 4, 2007 at 2:00 p.m.

at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Interment will be held at Memory Cemetery

in New Market. Memorials can be directed to the Lenox Care Center. Memories can

be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under

Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Lena Pauline Stogdill was born June 5, 1912 near Leroy, Iowa the daughter of Cyrus

Stogdill and Normanda Stogdill. She attended country school and graduated from

the eighth grade. Lena was united in marriage to Otho (Short) Shepherd in 1933,

and to this union five sons were born, Wilber, Ronald, J.D. Gary and Danny. They

settled in the New Market, Iowa area. In early 1952, they moved to Madison,

Missouri where Otho passed away in October of 1952.

In September of 1956, Lena was united in marriage to Willie (Bill) Shepherd of

 Lenox, Iowa, The family moved to a farm southwest of Lenox where stepchildren,

Donald and Joyce joined the family. Upon Bill's death in 1966, she moved to

Corning where she worked at the Rosary Hospital and several area restaurants.

In 1974, Lena moved to Lenox and became a housekeeper. In 1979, she married

Ernest Nook, expanding the family to include Clifford, Dwight, Glen, Gerald, Arlene

and their families. Upon his death in 1996; she moved to the Sunrise Apartments,

until failing health caused her to move, into the Lenox Care Center where she passed

away April 2, 2007.

Left to cherish Lena's memory is a brother, Verlin; her sons and wives, Wilber, J D

(Rita), Gary (Lou); Danny (Kathy); step sons and wives, Dwight (Shirley), Glen (Shirley),

Gerald (Sandra); step-daughters, Arlene and Joyce; stepdaughters-in-law, Twila and

Janice; thirty grandchildren; thirty step-grandchildren; forty four great-great-

grandchildren; thirty step-great-great grandchildren; six great, great

grandchildren; six step great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Preceding Lena in death are her parents; three husbands, Otho, Bill and Ernest; a son

Ronald; a daughter-in-law, Joan Shepherd; two step-sons, Donald Shepherd and Clifford

Nook; two step-son-in-laws, Kermit Barnes and Jerry Steddom; three grand-daughters,

Diana Hyatt, Kamby and Dechelle Hogue; three brothers, Bert, Arly and Bernard; a

sister-in-law, Beda Stogdill; three brothers-in-law, Wendell Owens, Kenneth Ballinger

and Orval Shepherd; and three sisters, Opal Owens, Pearl Ballinger and Ruby

Shepherd.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 11, 2007

 

Pennebaker, Bessie Jane Evelyn Brand -

Funeral services for Bessie (Mrs. Doc) Pennebaker, age 99, of Lenox, who died Friday, April

6, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Monday, April 9, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the United

Methodist Church. Interment will be held at West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. In lieu of

flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Lenox School for Scholarships.

Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com

under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Bessie Jane Evelyn (Brand) Pennebaker was born August 7, 1907, in rural Sharpsburg, the

daughter of George Brand and Lilly (Stevens) Brand. Bessie was a life-long Taylor County

resident. She grew up attending rural schools in the Sharpsburg area. Her family later

moved into Sharpsburg where she attended high school. On June 14, 1924, she was united

in marriage to Dr. E. R. Pennebaker at the United Methodist Parsonage in Bedford.

Doc and Bessie moved to Lenox in 1924, and to this loving union two children, Roland and

Dorthy Mae, were born.

Bessie and Doc withstood bank failures, bank holiday, cinch bugs, grasshoppers and drought

throughout their entire lives while living in Taylor County. Together they enjoyed many

wonderful trips, going to Europe five times and once to Japan. They also enjoyed traveling

through all 51 states in the United States, including Mexico and South America. They even had

time to fit in a several cruises! Bessie had been a member of both the United Methodist Church

and the Order of the Eastern Star for 83 years. Bessie was an excellent card player, a pastime

she truly enjoyed. She was a tremendous housekeeper, cook and letter writer. She always

made family events a priority, and tried to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and a big event at

Christmas time. One such anniversary was made extra special by her granddaughter Karl's

wedding in 2003. She was thrilled to ride in a limo for the first time in her life that day! Her

passion was her family; she particularly enjoyed the special visits with each of the grandkids

and great-grandkids. Roland's children remember when they called them "Big Grandma and

Big Grandpa". Whenever relatives came to visit, they always stayed at the Penhebakers.

Bessie had a great sense of humor and was known to 'play a joke or two'. It was truly a

special time for both Bessie and Doc when they were the Grand Marshals at the Lenox Rodeo

Parade in 2004.

Left to cherish Bessie's memory are her son Roland Pennebaker and wife MaryLou of

Creston; a daughter Dorthy Mae Basler and husband Robert of Lenox; five grandchildren;

twelve great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Bessie in death are parents; her husband Doc in June of 2005; five sisters; and a

great-grandson Murphy Fry in 2003.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 11, 2007

 

Riley, Phillip Michael -

Funeral services were held for Phillip M. Riley, 38, of San Jacinto, CA on March

21, 2007 at the Grove Community Church in Riverside, CA. Interment was in the

Olivewood Memorial Park, Riverside.

Phillip Michael Riley was born May 17, 1968 to Richard E. and Creola (Schaffer) Riley

in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He departed this life on March 9, 2007 at his home in San

Jacinto.

Phil moved with his family to Riverside, CA when he was four. After graduation from

Poly High, he began working for BMW of Riverside, where he has worked as parts

manager for the past 16 years. He had a great interest in aviation, sporting events and

spending time with family. He was a loving father and husband, wonderful son, caring

brother and genuine friend.

Phil is survived by his wife Kathy, daughters Courtney, Kylie, Kristine; stepson Joey;

his parents Richard and Creola Riley of Riverside, CA, brothers, Kevin (wife Susan)

of Santa Monica, CA, Kurt of Riverside, and Jason (wife, Heather) of San Diego, a

grandmother, Eula Riley and other extended family in Iowa.

Phil maintained a close connection with his extended family in Iowa, spending many

summers visiting among the grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. He also leaves

many friends, and co-workers at BMW of Riverside.

Phil touched many hearts with his winning smile and spirit. He will be truly missed

by everyone who was fortunate to have known and loved him.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

Thompson, Jerry Lawrence -

Jerry L. Thompson, 60, of Creston, died Monday, April 16, 2007 at Greater Regional

Medical Center in Creston. Services will be 1:30 PM Friday April 20, 2007 at

Powers Funeral Home 601 New York Ave. in Creston. Open Visitation will be 2-8:00

PM Thursday with family receiving friends from 6-8:00 PM. Pastor Rick Titus will

officiate. Burial will be in the Graceland Cemetery in Creston. Memorials may be

made to the family.

Jerry Lawrence Thompson, was born June 13, 1946 in Greenfield, to Estella

Joesphine (Theurer) and Leland Clifford Thompson. He attended school in Greenfield,

Iowa. On January 31, 1971, Jerry was united in marriage to Lois A. Young in Lenox.

Jerry worked at Wellman's for 15 1/2 years, before going to work at Bunn-O-Matic,

where he has worked for the last 15 years. He was a former member of Crest

Baptist Church in Creston.

Jerry is survived by his wife Lois of Creston; one daughter: Tracey Thompson of

Las Angeles, California; one son Jamey L. (wife Heather) Thompson of Creston; one

grandson Gavin L, Thompson; three sisters: Estella (husband Gene) McClelland of

Greenfield; Phyllis (husband Dale) Ernst of Des Moines; Carolyn (husband Gary)

Benton of Stuart, la; and one brother: Leland (wife Marlene) Thompson of

Phoenix, Ariz. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Joyce Purdy.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 25, 2007

 

Weil, Lorrain Lysher -

Graveside services for Lorain Weil, age 85 of Gravity who died Sunday, April 1, 2007 at

the Lenox Care Center were held Friday, April 6, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the Washington

Cemetery in Gravity. Visitation was held Friday morning prior to services at the Ritchie

Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Memorials can be given in Lorain's name.

Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com

under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Lorain (Lysher) Weil was born September 30, 1921, in Laurel, Mississippi the daughter

of Harland Edward Lysher and Mattie Elizabeth (Vermellon) Lysher. Lorain grew up in

Mississippi, around the Jackson area. She graduated from high school and attended

two years of college to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. The family later moved to

Michigan and with Lorain returning to Mississippi. During World War II, she met

Charles "Charlie" Mathew Weil. The couple dated for three months and were united in

marriage on March 41944, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. To this loving union, two sons were

born, Charles Mathew Edward "Eddie" and Eldon Eugene. During the War years, Lorain was

a "Riveter".

Lorain and Charlie moved to Gravity in 1945. Together they were supervising LPN's at the

Clarinda Mental Health Institute for over 32 years, retiring in the early 1980's. Lorain

had worked at various nursing homes in the area, and also at the Rosary Hospital in Corning.

For a short time, she worked at Papettis  in Lenox. She enjoyed sewing and fishing, along

with gardening and spending time with her family and friends. She also looked forward

to singing, and often sang with her sisters, Dorothy and Betty, on the radio. She was

always very involved politically with the Democratic Party, being active on both the local

and state levels. Lorain wrote that her fondest memories were of "the years she and

Charlie were married, sharing our love with our two sons, Eddie and Eldon. No parents

could wish for more. Also that I came to know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior."

Lorain was a member of the Church of God and the Gravity American Legion for over

47 years.

Left to cherish Lorrain's memory are her loving husband of 63 years, Charles Weil,

residing at the Lenox Care Center, two sons, Charles "Eddie" Matthew Edward Weil

of Afton, and Eldon Eugene of Lenox and two wonderful grandchildren, Mathew Weir

and wife Jennifer of Yurria, Arizona and Theresa Keeler and husband Chris of Gravity

and their mother, Penny Weil of Clarinda; and one greatgrandchild, Alex Keeler; along

with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Lorain in death are her parents, and two brothers, Henry Edward Lysher

at infancy and Jack Ramsey Lysher; and two sisters, Dorothy Minton and husband

Robert who lived in Star, Mississippi; and Betty Edwards.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday April 11, 2007