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

Boswell, Alan Clifford -

Memorial services for Alan Clifford Boswell, age 53, was held at 10:30 a.m.

February 4, 2009 at the Lenox Presbyterian Church with Tim Maxa officiating.

Alan was born August 31, 1955 at Mercy Hospital in Corning, Adams County,

Iowa and died January 29, 2009 at Knoxville, Marian County, Iowa.

He was the son of Earl Clifford Boswell, deceased, and Wilma Brown Boswell

of Lenox.

He attended Treynor, Iowa School and was baptized and confirmed at the

Zion Congregational Church in Treynor, Iowa.

He entered the Navy in October of 1972.

Surviving are his brother, Dan Boswell of Lenox, Ia., his mother, Wilma Brown

Boswell of Lenox, Ia.; cousins, Byron (Marilyn) Brown, Prescott, Laura (Loren)

Scholl of Branson, Mo., John Beran, Lenox, David Brown, Lenox, Norvan (Linda)

Brown, Lenox, Stephen Brown, Bedford, Stanley (Jolene) Brown of Lenox, Elaine

(Carl) Israel of Lenox, Marilyn Brown Brokaw (Paul) of Lenox, Charlene (Michael)

Heidt of Marshallville, Ga., Roger Brown of Tampa, Fl., Fareal Gause

of Holland, Ohio, Jim Brinker of Pemberville, Ohio, Carlton Brinker of Lucky,

Ohio; Jim Bixler of Underwood, Iowa, Jeff Bixler of Council Bluffs, Joe Bixler

of Treynor, aunts: Berniece (Delman) Brown of Lenox, Ellen Grace (Austin)

Brown of Lenox, Lillian (Roscoe) Brown, Lenox, Beatrice (Jim) Boswell Bixler

of Council Bluffs,

He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Boswell, uncles Austin Brown,

Delman Brown, Darrel Brown and Roscoe Brown, all of Lenox, Ia., grandparents

Elmer and Myrtle Boswell of Mt. Etna, la., grandparents, Stanley and

Mary Brown, Prescott, cousins, Carol Brown Benin of Lenox, Carene Brown

Sulliyan of San Diego, Ca., aunts deceased, Thelma Brown Brinker of Pemberville,

Ohio, and Marie Brown of Lenox.

Alan was cremated and inurnment will be in the Mt. Etna Forest Hill Cemetery

at a later date.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 11, 2009

 

Combs, Estel Dewey -

Funeral services for Estel Combs, age 86 of New Market, Iowa, who died Sunday,

February 8, 2009 at the Nebraska Methodist Hospital, Omaha, Nebraska were

held Friday, February 13, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home,

Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Visitation with the family

was held 7-8 p.m., Thursday, February 12. Burial with military rites was in the Dallas

Center Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials can be directed to the Estel

Combs Memorial Fund. 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.

Estel Dewey Combs was born September 19, 1922 to Dewey and Hallene (Slack)

Combs in Taylor County, Iowa near New Market. After a brief illness he passed

away peacefully on February 8, 2009 at Nebraska Methodist Hospital, Omaha,

Nebraska. Estel attended school at Lone Star in Taylor County, Iowa and was

drafted into the U.S. Army in 1942 and served with the 103rd Infantry Division.

He served honorably in World War II in France and Austria and during his service

in France in December of 1944, he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry

in action. He was discharged in November of 1945 and returned to the family

farm near Hawleyville, Iowa. In 1946, he became a farmer and rural mail carrier

and after 32 years, retired in 1980. He married Phyllis Hatfield of Shambaugh,

Iowa on September 12, 1948 in Clarinda, Iowa and they made their first home

northeast of Hawleyville and then moved to New Market for two years before

moving to their present home where they have lived for 55 years. All of his

years of delivering mail were out, of New Market except for 3 years when he

was transferred to a rural route in Shenandoah, Iowa. He was a local fixture in

his red, right-hand drive Ford pickup, which had over 400,000 miles on it when

he retired.

After his retirement, he and Phyllis bought a travel trailer and spent many a

warm winter in the "Valley" in Texas and traveling throughout the United

States. He enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren, all of

who will greatly miss him. Estel was an avid reader of westerns and in recent

years enjoyed mysteries as well. He also had a keen interest in trains and

enjoyed any chance he had to ride them and watch his train videos and read

his numerous books on the subject. His favorite movie star was John Wayne

and he never tired of watching the "Duke" in action. Estel was an excellent

wood craftsman and made many pieces for craft shows he attended

with Phyllis, for his friends and his family who will cherish them all. His special

dog friend was Katie, a black Labrador who will miss their walks and his "bone"

handout's. He volunteered at the Taylor County Museum and spent many

enjoyable hours showing visitors the barn, caboose and machinery. One of the

greatest moments of his life was being selected for an Honor Flight for World

War II veterans to Washington, DC in May 2008. To visit the WW II memorial

and other memorials to veterans and to see the changing of the guard at the

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a trip he had not expected to have the chance

to do. He felt so honored to be able to have this opportunity. Every day, weather

 permitting he flew the flag to honor his country and his comrades in arms. He

was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a 62 year member

of the American Legion Post 300 of New Market.

He is survived by Phyllis, his wife of 60 years and their three children, son, Mike

(Sandra) Combs of Gordon, Nebraska, daughter, Patricia (Dwight) Hicks of

Indianola, Iowa and daughter, Shirley Combs of Clarinda, Iowa; grandchildren,

Jill (Aron) Pease of Gainesville, Florida, Megan Hicks of Columbia, S.C., Shawn

Combs of Gordon, NE and Lucas Hicks of Iowa City, IA, his sister-in-law and

brother-in-law, Barbara Reese Burham and Bob Burham of Clarinda and sisters-

in-law, Jeanne Walkowski of Bella Vista, AR and Mary Combs of New Market

and several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Estel was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lyle Combs; grand

daughter, Pamela Combs and brothers-in-law, Norman Hatfield and Ronald Reese.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing,

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 18, 2009

 

Eckels, Evelyn Verlee Gordon -

Funeral services for Verlee Eckels, age 91, of Lenox, who died Saturday, February

7, 2009 at Vintage Park Apartments in Lenox were held Friday, February 13, 2009

at 10:30 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Interment will be held at

West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be directed to the United Presby-

terian Church. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.

com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home

of Lenox.

Evelyn Verlee (Gordon) Eckels was born April 20, 1917 in rural Lenox, Taylor County,

Iowa, the daughter of Earl L. Gordon and Bertha Lula (Preston) Gordon. She grew up

in the Lenox area attending school, graduating from the Lenox High School with the

Class of 1934. Verlee then attended Normal Teacher's Training. She began working

at an office in Bedford, and on August 24, 1936 she was united in marriage to her

'high school sweetheart' Lew Eckels in Boulder, Colorado. The couple continued to help

Lew's family on the farm located five miles northwest of Lenox. In 1938, they built

a new home and continued living on this "Century Farm", which had been in the family

for over 125 years. During the years Lew and Verlee were on the farm, Verlee kept

immaculate records of their farming operations, including all of the information on

their breeding stock. In 2003, Lew and Verlee were the first residents to move into

the new Vintage Park Apartments located in Lenox. Lew passed away on October 2,

2004 and Verlee continued living at Vintage Park until her death.

Verlee was a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox where she kept

active with all of the women's activities. She was also a member of the Neighborhood

Club. Verlee was an excellent seamstress, having made most of the clothes for her

family over the years. She was a true farmer's wife, tending a large garden out of

necessity, and canning the produce to share with her family and friends.

She worked side-by-side Lew on the farm, doing whatever chores were needed, along

with mowing her own yard well into her 80's!  In later years, she and Lew enjoyed

collecting plates and cut glass. Verlee's family was truly her passion in life, she always

had time for her grandchildren and was always willing to give of herself to benefit

others.

Left to cherish Verlee's memory are her son Dean Eckels and wife Colette of

Littleton, Colorado; two daughters, Carole Lea Kraber and husband Don of Ankeny,

Iowa; and Jean Spicer and husband Doug of Atlantic, Iowa; a brother, Russell

Gordon of Sharpsburg, Iowa; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren along

with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Verlee in death are her parents, Earl and Bertha Gordon, her loving

husband Lew Eckels in 2004, a daughter, Helen Louise in 1982, and a brother, Darold

Gordon in 2008. Although Verlee will be greatly missed, her love and inspiration will

live on through her family.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 18, 2009

 

Haggerty, Darlene Kay Myers -

Funeral services for Darlene Haggerty, age 67 of Corning, who died Thursday, February

19, 2009 at her home in Corning were held Monday, February 23, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at

the Roland- Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Visitation was held Sunday from 1 to 4 with

the family greeting friends from 2 to 4. Interment was held in the Prairie Rose Cemetery.

Memorials can be directed to Home Health Care or On With Life. Memories can be

shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.coni. Arrangements were entrusted

to the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Darlene Kay (Myers) Haggerty, the daughter of Glenn D. Myers and Alma Viola (Lund)

Myers, was born June 13, 1941 in Clarinda, Iowa. She lived her entire life in Corning,

graduating from Corning High School with the Class of 1959. On May 7, 1961, Darlene

was united in marriage to Larry Dean Haggerty. Two children were born to bless their

lives, Darcie and Rex.

Darlene began working with Dr. Harold Muschamp in his dental practice as a young high

school student and continued assisting him for a number of years. She later worked

for Curtis Distributing as a bookkeeper and clerk until the business closed. At that

time she tried her own hand in business as a commodities broker for a few years. She

then became an employee of Precision Pulley, Inc., in the shipping and receiving

department. This was a position she held for nearly fifteen years. Darlene was a

believer in "hard work and integrity " and always put her whole heart into any job

or task she had.

Darlene enjoyed country music, jigsaw puzzles, solitaire and dancing. In fact,

Darlene loved dancing the two-step, jitterbug and line dancing. She was an avid race

fan of the Adams County Speedway, especially the 43X Team. She also was an avid

fan of NASCAR and the Winston Cup, being especially fond of both Dale Earnhart

Senior and Junior. Kids and grandchildren always kept Darlene active and on the go.

.. .just the way she loved it! She was always eager to watch a karate tournament,

a dance recital, a concert or any activity the kids were involved in with school.

Christmas was always Grandma Darlene's finest hour  with lots and lots of gifts under

the tree. She was especially talented at making her special sugar cookies and candies

which she lovingly shared with her family and friends. Darlene was an active member

of the Corning First United Methodist Church for many years and especially

appreciated the love, support and kindness of the Mary Martha Circle during the

years of her illness.

Left to cherish the memory of this loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend

are her husband of forty-seven years Larry Haggerty of Corning; her son Rex

Haggerty and wife Melissa "Miss" and grandson Connor of Corning; her daughter

Darcie Murdock and husband Dave and grandchildren Dylan, Madeline and Collin

Murdock all of Bloomington, Minnesota; along with many other family members

and friends. The family especially wishes to recognize the love and tenderness

shown by Tammy (Cooney) Newton.

Preceding Darlene in death are her parents Glenn and Alma Myers; her in-laws,

Geraldine Houck and Lawrence Haggerty; and a sister, Betty Hayward.

Darlene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Her enthusiasm, humor, insight and gentle kindness will be missed by everyone.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 25, 2009

 

Heaberlin, Dianne Kathleen John Parker -

Funeral services for Dianne K. Heaberlin, will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at Pence-Reese

Funeral Home in Newton. Visitation with the family 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at the

funeral home. Burial will be in the Newton Union Cemetery.

Dianne Kathleen Heaberlin, 67, the daughter of Kenneth and Dorothy (Robinson) John, was

born September 22, 1941 in Conway, Iowa. She attended rural Grant #8 country school

and later the Clearfield High School.

Dianne was united in marriage with Jim Parker, in Mt. Ayr, Iowa. To this union three

children were born, Michael John, Kay Jeane and Mark James. Her husband Jim, had

preceded her in death. Dianne devoted her life to her family and friends, and was a

member of the Kellogg Christian Church and Women of the Moose. A longtime resident

of the Kellogg and Newton, Iowa areas, she was employed by the Vernon Company in

Newton, forty plus years, On July 8, 1981, Dianne was united in marriage with Alvin

Eugene "Al" Heaberlin at the Ashton Chapel rural Mingo, Iowa.

Dianne passed away on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 25, 2009 in the Monarch Wing of

Skiff Medical Center in Newton. She was preceded in death by her father Ken; her

first husband, Jim; her second husband, Al on Nov. 28, 2006; a son in infancy, Mark

James in 1969; and her grandparents: Mark and Lula Robinson and Kinsey and Esther

John.

Those left to honor Dianne's memory include her son, Mike Parker of Rock Creek;

her daughter, Kay Parker of Maxwell; her two step-sons: Todd M. Heaberlin (Kelly)

of Newton and Jeremy T. Heaberlin of Newton; her six grandchildren: Megan (Grant)

Nenneman, Travis Parker, Jenna (Diego) Bustos, Rebecca (Chris) Hudson; Ashley

Heaberlin and Dewey Heaberlin; a great-grandson, Zachary Shelton; her mother,

Dorothy John of Lenox; her sister, Jeanne (Roger) Maharry of Ames; her mother-

in-law, Jolene Jones of Knoxville; her former daughter-in-law, Deanna Van Hall of

Pella; several nieces & nephews; and many good neighbors and friends.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 4, 2009

 

Jones, Cleta L Whitehead -

Funeral services for Cleta Jones, age 84 of New Market, Iowa, were held Tuesday,

March 10, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with

Russ Clark and Loren Daly officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m.,

Monday, March 9. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Cleta

passed away Thursday, March 5, 2009 at Westridge Care and Rehab Center, Clarinda,

Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the New Market Fire and Rescue or to the

New Market Church of Christ. 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.

Cleta L Whitehead Jones was born October 15, 1924 near New Market, Iowa.

She was the daughter of James Loury Whitehead and Lenna Gertrude (Cunning)

Whitehead. She grew up in the New Market area and was a 1942 graduate of New

Market High School. Cleta and Weldon Jones were united in marriage August 18, 1945

at Troy, Kansas.  Cleta and Weldon were blessed with four children, Pat, Jeanne,

Susie, and David.

Following her graduation Cleta taught in rural schools in Taylor and Page County.

She also cooked at the New Market School and worked at both grocery stores in

New Market. Cleta was an excellent homemaker as well as cook and pie maker. She

enjoyed dancing and playing cards. Cleta was a 50 year member of the Rebbekah

Lodge. Family was very important to Cleta, and she loved spending time with

her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Left to cherish Cleta's memory is her husband of over sixty three years, Weldon

Jones of New Market, Iowa; children, Pat Knoke and husband Larry of Loveland,

Colorado, Jeanne Showers and husband Eric of Clarinda, Iowa, Susie Caligiuri and

husband Lenny of New Market, Iowa, David Jones and Dennis Boger of Clarinda, Iowa;

eight grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; sister, Cleva Jobe and husband Floyd

of New Market, Iowa; sister-in-law, Helen Whitehead of Clarinda, Iowa; sister-in-law,

Olive Lombolo; nieces; nephews and many friends.

Preceding Cleta in death were parents; brothers, Raymond Whitehead and Mike

Whitehead; sister-in-law, Marie Whitehead and great granddaughter, Geneah Radke.

Cleta was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother and

will be greatly missed: her love and inspiration will live on through her family.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday March 11, 2009

 

Osiecki, Edward R -

Edward R. Osiecki, age 76, of Arapahoe, Nebraska died on Sunday, March 8, 2009

at the Tri-County Hospital in Lexington, Nebraska. He was born on October 5,

1932 in Rusk County, Wisconsin to Peter & Mary (Sieja) Osiecki.

He attended country schools and graduated from Weyerhauser High School,

Weyerhauser, Wisconsin with the Class of 1951. Upon graduation he was called

into service, serving in the Army in Japan and Korea. After being discharged,

he returned to Wisconsin to farm until moving to Chicago. On June 1, 1957 he

married Barbara C. Wilson in Lenox, Iowa. In 1958, they moved to Iowa were

they owned and operated a 24 hour Truck Stop. In 1970, upon selling the truck

stop, they moved to Golden, Colorado. He went to work for Straight Creek

Construction Co. which was building the Eisenhower Tunnel at the time. After

a year of underground work, he decided to go back to roofing which is the

trade he pursued in the Chicago area. At the time, Denver was just starting to

build the high-rises, so he was involved in the changing of the skyline. In 1981,

he decided to join the maintenance department at Jefferson County Schools,

in Denver, Colorado and continue in roofing. In 1986, his health started to fail

and in 1991 he took early retirement. In 1996, they moved to Arapahoe,

Nebraska. He is a member of St. Germanus Catholic Church, of Arapahoe, Nebraska

and was a member of the V.F.W. Post in Golden, Colorado.

He is preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Racheal M., brothers

Walter & Joseph Osiecki, special brother-in-law Ray Colbeth.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Osiecki of Arapahoe, Nebraska. Sons: Patrick

R. & wife Beverly Osiecki of Arvada, Colorado, Peter L. Osiecki of Phoenix, Arizona,

Daughter: Teresa S. Stevenson-Saiz of Phoenix, Arizona, Brothers: Anthony &

wife Sally Osiecki of Hartford, South Dakota, Frank & wife Marna Osiecki of

Fort Morgan, Colorado, Raymond & wife Kay Osiecki of West Salem, Wisconsin,

Sisters-In-Law: Rose Osiecki of Spring Valley, Minnesota, Lorraine Helm of

Stanberry, Missouri, Brother-In-Law: Leland & wife Kay Wilson of Hamilton,

Montana, Grandchildren: Rachel, Alan, Robert, Mary, Emily, Laura, & Tanner,

Condolences and personal reflections may be left at wenburgfuneralhome.com

Viewing & visitation will be Thursday, March 12, from 1 PM till 8 PM and Friday,

March 13, from 9 AM till 8 PM at the Funeral Home and prior to the service at

the church. Rosary will be recited on Saturday, March 14, at 9:30 AM at St.

Germanus Catholic Church, Arapahoe, Nebraska.

Funeral Mass will be Saturday, March 14, at 10:30 AM at St. Germanus Catholic

Church, Arapahoe, Nebraska with Father Robert Barnhill, officiating. Interment

will be at the Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska. Military rites provided

by local American Legion Posts. Wenburg Funeral Home, of Arapahoe, Nebraska

is in charge of the arrangements.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday March 18, 2009

 

Reynolds, Florence Casey -

Florence Reynolds, age 88, formerly of Adams County, Iowa, who died Saturday,

February 28, 2009, in Parker, Colorado will be held Saturday, March 7, 2009 at

10:30 a.m. at Mercer Center United Methodist Church. Visitation will be Saturday

morning prior to services starting at 9:00 a.m. Interment will be held in the North

Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can

be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were

entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Florence Reynolds, longtime resident of Adams County, Iowa, died on February 28th,

2009 at her son's home in Colorado after a 5 month struggle with Non-Hodgkin's

Lymphoma. She was 88.

Born August 30, 1920 in her parent's farmhouse southeast of Corning, Florence

was the daughter of Clifford and Margaret Casey and grew up on the farm which

was homesteaded by her great-grandfather, John Casey. She attended a one-room

schoolhouse. On August 23rd, 1941 she married Woodrow Reynolds from Nodaway.

Woodrow started working for Swift and Company in 1941, and entered the Army in

1943. Florence was with him during stateside training until he left for duty in

the South Pacific. (Florence had the photo on the front done as a surprise gift

which she sent to Woodrow in the South Pacific). After the war, Woodrow returned

to Swift and Company, which took them to assignments in Des Moines, Phoenix, and

Omaha. They returned to Corning after retirement. Widowed in 1995, Florence

remained in their Corning home until late 2007, when she bought an apartment and

moved to Aurora, Colorado, to be near her son. Florence lived a simple, unassuming

life, devoted to family and friends. Her passing was quiet and peaceful. She was

preceded in death by her husband Woodrow, her parents, and three sisters: Wilma

Armagost, Leota Jones, and Ila Eivins.

She is survived by her son, Cliff Reynolds, and his wife Jan, and two grandchildren:

Kristy DeAnda of Windsor, Colorado, and Scott Reynolds of Krakow, Poland, as well

as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

We will miss her patient and loving spirit.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday March 11, 2009

 

Rogers, Delbert Richard (Dick) -

Funeral services for Delbert Rogers, age 84 of Bedford, who died Wednesday,

January 28, 2009 at St. Francis Medical Center in Maryville, Missouri were

held Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in

Bedford. 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 directed to the Delbert Rogers Scholarship Fund or the United Christian

Presbyterian Church. Memories can be shared with the family at

www.ritohiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral

Home of Bedford.

Delbert Richard (Dick) Rogers was born on April 6, 1924 to Cora Garland

Bevins Rogers and Reid McKinley Rogers on the farm in Taylor County, Iowa where

he resided most of his life. He had one brother, Troy Rogers. He attended Banner

Country School and graduated from Bedford High School in 1942. After

graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy where, he was trained and

worked as a diesel mechanic. After his discharge from the Navy he returned

to the family farm.

On May 8, 1949 he married Helen Buzzard and together they established their

farm close to the Rogers farm and the Buzzard farm. Dick and Helen were blessed

with two daughters, Mary Lou and Jeanne and the family enjoyed many happy times

together on the farm and traveling throughout the country.

Delbert was always involved in community and political activities and contributed

his expertise and planning abilities. He was a member of the National Farmers Union,

the Iowa Farmers Union, Taylor County Democratic Party, SIRWA Board of

Directors, a Taylor County Supervisor, 102 River Valley Association, the RC & D,

the Taylor County Board of Health, member of the Christian Church, and MFA.

As part of his work with these organizations he held many offices and board

positions. He always enjoyed learning about new things and researching projects.

He could be counted on to study things thoroughly before making a decision.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and traveling but most of all spending time with his

family and friends. He was a great storyteller and could remember dates, names

and circumstances that most others had forgotten. He often took the long way

around to tell his stories.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 59 years, Helen, of Bedford, daughter

Mary Lou Bowman and fiance Gary Klassen of Bedford, daughter Jeanne Crawford

and husband Dennis of New Market, grandson Nathan Crawford and wife Alicia of

Bedford, granddaughter Ken Crawford and fiance Josh Castillo of Nixa, Missouri,

sister in law Lois Clark and husband Glenn, nephew Marty Ohm and wife Stephanie

and their daughter Allie, all of Brighton, Colo.

Preceding Delbert in death were his parents, Reid and Garland, parents in law Loren

and Garland Buzzard, brother and sister in law Troy and Pauline Rogers and son

in law Jack Bowman.

Delbert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and will

be missed by all.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 4, 2009

 

Shultz, Janevieve (Jane) Lodica Morris -

Janevieve "Jane" Lodica (Morris) Schultz was born October 12,

1941 in Mt. Ayr, Ringgold  County, IA to George H. and Ruth

(Shaver)  Morris. She was baptized and confirmed at First

Christian Church  in Lenox, IA in 1965. In 1957 Jane worked at

an egg plant and as a  kitchen worker at the hotel in Lenox, IA.

She also worked at the Campbell's Soup Co. in Worthington.

Jane was united in marriage  to Floyd Schultz on September

3, 1966 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Okabena. Together

the couple moved to a farm south  of Westbrook, MN. Her

son Duaine David was born July 8, 1973. Jane was an active

volunteer for S.O.S (Serving Our Seniors) where she did

bingo and set hair. She was also active at Grace Lutheran

Church where she was involved in WELCA. She enjoyed

square dancing, reading, fishing, and helping people out.

Jane Shultz passed away on Saturday, September 20,

2008 at the Westbrook Good Samaritan Care Center at

the age of 66 years, 10 months, and 22 days.

Jane is survived by her sisters: Janet (Arnie) Garrison

and Amelia "Amie" (Louis) Olsen; nieces and nephews;

relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her

parents, her husband Floyd (November 1997); son Duane

(August 1996); and niece Shelia Heidebrink.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday January 28, 2009

 

Sobbing, Julia Jo Lininger Griffith -

Funeral services for Julie Sobbing, age 52 of, Bedford, who died Monday, January

19, 2009 at the Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska will be held Friday, January

23, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Life Missionary Church in Bedford. Visitation will be

Thursday at the Ritchie Funeral Home from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends

from 5 to 7: Interment will be held in the White Oak Cemetery in Pickering.

Instead of flowers the family requests memorials be given in Julie's name. Memories

can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were

entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Julie Jo (Lininger) Sobbing was born on February 17, 1956 to Elmer and Charlotte

(Hord) Lininger in Sterling, Colorado. Shortly after, the family moved to northwest

Missouri, where she would grow up and graduate in 1974 from Fillmore High School,

in Fillmore, Missouri.

On January 23, 1978 she was united in marriage with Floyd Wilbur Griffith and moved

to Bedford. Julie's pride and joy were her three children Lori Jo (1978), James Earl

(1980) and Randall Thomas (1985). She later married William (Bill) Sobbing on August 23,

1993 and gained a stepson Jim Sobbing, daughter-in-law Wanda and granddaughter

Rita.

Julie was a very hard worker, and had to do so to keep her family afloat. At

times she worked several jobs as well as doing odd jobs. She worked at Bedford Nursing

and Rehab for several years, taking care of the patients as if they were family. While

working there, she started at Casey's in 1989 as one of the first employees. This

soon became her full time job (besides taking care of her three ornery children! For

the next 20 years, Casey's and its patrons as well as her children became her life.

More than anything she loved to visit with people when they came into the store,

(sometimes even pulling a prank or two!)

When Julie was not at work, she could be found in her kitchen, cooking for all

of the friends that stopped by. These friends turned into "her kids" and she soon found

herself parenting them in a variety of ways. It ranged from humor to guidance and

even an occasional "butt chewing." Each one holds a special place in her heart and

can be sure that she is looking down on them today.

"You have only failed if you failed to try," was a quote Julie often told her children,

and a quote that she lived by.

As her heath failed she hated to rely on others, especially her children. They, however,

looked at the situation as an opportunity to give to her what she gave to them.

There are not enough words (nor enough room!) to describe how Julie impacted

everyone that she knew and came in contact with. She certainly left many memories,

for each person to cherish.

Julie is survived by her husband Bill, daughter Lori and husband Gary Bolinger,

son Earl and wife Angela Griffith, son Randy Griffith, and stepson Jim Sobbing

and wife Wanda, all of Bedford. Granddaughter Rita Sobbing of St. Joe. Brother

Jerry Lininger and wife Reada of Savannah, Missouri. Sister Myra Carter of Bedford.

Twin sister Judy Weems and husband Ken of Rosharon,Texas As well as many nieces

and nephews, great friends, her faithful dog Doja, grand dog Favre and all of her

loyal customers of Casey's General Store.

She is preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Charlotte and three brothers

Jim, Ronnie, and Tom Lininger.

Julie's enthusiasm, humor, and kindness to everyone she knew will be greatly

missed.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday January 28, 2009

 

Stewart, Donald (Whitey) Glen -

Funeral services for Donald Stewart, age 80 of Villisca, formerly of Blockton, who

died Wednesday February 18, 2009 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center were

held Saturday, February 21, 2009 at 10:30.m. at the Blockton Christian Church.

Interment with military rites accorded by the Blockton American Legion were held

in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories

can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhdme.com. Arrangements were

entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Donald "Whitey" Glen Stewart was born February 24, 1928 in Conway, Iowa the son

of David Alfred Stewart and Amy Belle (Matheny) Stewart. He grew up attending

rural schools and then entered the United States Army on January 11, 1946 in Fort

Snelling, Minnesota, faithfully serving his country until July 10, 1947 when he was

discharged in Williamsfield, Arizona. On February 16, 1948 he was united in marriage

to Donna Mae Henson in Bedford, Iowa, and the couple made their home in Blockton.

Two children were born to bless their lives, Allen and Sheila.

Whitey was a truck driver and farmer most of his working life. He was a strong

'peopleperson' who enjoyed playing cards. Whitey never met a stranger and he always

enjoyed telling jokes, especially 'blonde jokes'. He enjoyed camping, bowling, playing

golf and especially spending time with his grandchildren. Whitey was active in the

Blockton American Legion, the Bethany Masonic Lodge 320 of Blockton, Iowa.

He was a proud member of the Clearfield Lion's Club where he actively participated

in the Iowa State Fair Shuttle Service for many, many years.

Left to cherish the memories of. a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and

friend are his loving wife of sixty-one years, Donna Mae Stewart of Villisca; a son

Allen Stewart and wife Lyn of Sterling, Illinois; a daughter Sheila Haidsiak and

husband Lee of Villisca; three brothers David "Boge" Stewart and wife Wylene

of Clearfield; Larry Stewart and Fern Green of Zillah, Washington; and Dick

Stewart and wife Debi of Creston; a sister Christina Wall of Bedford; five grand

children and nine great-grandchildren along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Whitey in death are his parents David and Amy Stewart and two brothers

Arlo Stewart and Dwight "Doc" Stewart.

Whitey will be missed by his entire family. The memories that he made

throughout the years will remain in our hearts forever.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 25, 2009

 

Sweeney, Hubert Leo -

Hubert Sweeney, age 70, of Lenox who passed away on Tuesday, January 27,

2009 at Taylor Ridge Estates. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday,

January 30, 2009, at 10:30 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox.

Visitation will be Thursday at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox from 3 to

7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7 and a Rosary/Prayer

Service at 4:30. Burial will be held at the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.

Memorials can be directed to the Lenox High School Scoreboard Fund.

Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefunralhome.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Hubert Leo Sweeney was born June 9, 1938, at St. Francis Hospital in

Maryville, Missouri the son of Frank Sweeney and Ellen (Leahy) Sweeney.

Hubert grew up on a farm near Conway before moving to Lenox in 1961.

Although physically and mentally handicapped, Hubert was able to attend

elementary school in Conway. He was blessed with many compassionate

teachers and friends. Hubert knew everyone and remembered everyone . . .

all through his life! He knew the cars they drove and was always happy

when he could ride in another person's car. After his parent's deaths,

Hubert lived at Taylor Ridge Estates in Lenox from June 1, 1981 until his

death. He rode his bicycle downtown nearly every day for many years and

walked downtown after it became difficult for him to ride his bike. Many

children over the years rode the bikes Hubert helped assemble at the

hardware store. He also spent many days at Barker Implement "helping

out".

Hubert started putting jigsaw puzzles together when he was a boy and

became a master at solving them. There was nearly always a puzzle in

progress on his card table at Taylor Ridge. Another hobby of his was

assembling model cars which he proudly displayed on the shelves in his

room. Always an active sports fan, Hubert supported the Lenox Tiger

teams and the Lenox marching band with vigor! He was honored several

times for being such a loyal Tiger fan. He was a little man with a big heart,

a friend to all who knew him and he was loved and cared for by his family

and many friends. Hubert loved children and babies and those in a stroller

or on the hand of a parent he never ignored and they were always treated

with a grin!

Left to cherish Hubert's memory are his five sisters, Florence Robinson

of Lenox; Maureen Walton of Las Vegas, Nevada; Mary Evans of Dysart,

Iowa; Frances Myers and husband Merle of Lincoln, Nebraska; and Carol

Ann Steininger and husband Ron of San Leandro, California; one brother,

Stephen Sweeney and wife Sandy of Lenox; a sister-in-law, Jean Sweeney

of Lenox; nieces and nephews Jim Bennett, Stephen Porter, Stephen

(Janet) Robinson; Dick (Denise) Robinson; Pat (Lahni) Robinson; Diane

(Jeffrey) Lange; Mike (Debbie) Walton; John Walton; Mark (Mary Ellen)

Walton; Colleen (Jim) Fletcher; Cathy (Denny) Evelsizer; Chris (Ronda)

Evans; Jayne (Hugh) Madden; Mark (Laurie) Evans; James (Carrie) Evans;

Larry (Phyllis) Sweeney; Alice Reed; Shelley (Mike) Pettit; Kevin (Debbie)

Sweeney; David (Joyce) Sweeney; Vince (Deanna) Sweeney; Janye (Ron)

Thompson; Paul (Brenda) Rainforth; Carol Rainforth; Joan (Jon) Jenson;

Bill Myers; Josh (friend Deva) Sweeney; Mendy (Joseph) Siembieda;

Molly Sweeney and Greg Woods; along with numerous great nieces

and nephews; many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Hubert in death were his parents; two sisters Margaret

Sweeney and Catherine Rainforth; two brothers Bill Sweeney and

George Sweeney; four brothers-in-law Doyle Robinson, Jack Walton,

Dean Evans and Gerald Rainforth; two sisters-in-law Juanita Sweeney

and Marge Sweeney; three nephews Jon Sweeney, Dan Sweeney and

Robert Rainforth, two nieces Terri Bennett and Linda Porter; a great-

niece, Kelly Young and three great-nephews, Shane Sweeney; Jordan and

Michael Robinson.

Hubert was a devoted Lenox Tiger Fan and friend to everyone.

His family will miss his enthusiasm for life and his presence in the

community.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 4, 2009

 

Taylor, Madelyn Eileen Benson -

Funeral services for Madelyn Taylor, age 88 of Bedford, who died Friday,

January 30, 2009 at the Clearview Home in Clearfield were held Tuesday,

February 3, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Cremation

followed the services with interment of ashes at a later date.

Memorials can be given in Madelyn's name. Memories can be shared with the

family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the

Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Madelyn Eileen (Benson) Taylor was born November 26, 1920 in Page

County, Iowa the daughter of James Benson and Blanche (Sullivan) Benson. She

grew up in the New Market area, graduating from the Bedford High School.

She met Robert Taylor at a dance in Bedford and the couple were united

in marriage on August 16, 1942 in Picayune, Mississippi where Robert was

stationed in the military, After Robert's discharge the couple made

their home in southwest Iowa and northwest Missouri. Two daughters were

born to bless their lives, Linda Nicole and Catherine Diane.

Madelyn worked as a secretary for Vogt Feed Store and was the Superintendent's

Secretary for the Bedford Community School District for twenty-five years,

She faithfully served the community from 1959 until her retirement in 1984.

Robert passed away on February 13, 1982. She was a member of the Bedford

United Methodist Church; Madelyn enjoyed sewing and was an excellent

seamstress, having made her own clothing as well as all of her daughter's clothes.

She was an avid reader and always possessed a special spot for animals, especially

her cats. She enjoyed the Big Band Music and would often sing at church functions.

Madelyn was especially fond of her Irish heritage.  In 2004 after her health was

failing, Madelyn entered the Clearview Nursing Home in Clearfield where she lived

until her death.

Left to cherish Madelyn' s memory are her two daughters, Linda Nicole Taylor

of Bedford; and Catherine Diane Bose and husband Mike of Bedford; a sister, Betty

Young of Harlingen, Texas; four grandchildren, Todd Mullen, Erik Mullen, Jordan

Nicholson and Erin Nicholson; five great-grandchildren, Courtney, Erika, Jennifer

and Elizabeth Gillian; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Madelyn in death are her parents James and Blanche Benson; her loving

husband Robert in 1982; and a sister Lillian Slusher.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn

Madelyn's passing.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday February 11, 2009

 

Wehrkamp, Donald Gilbert -

Services for Donald Gilbert Wehrkamp, age 85 of Bedford, who died Saturday,

January 17, 2009 at his home in Bedford will be held at a later date. Memories can

be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were

entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Donald Gilbert Wehrkamp was born February 7, 1923, in Page County, Iowa the son of

John Henry Wehrkamp and Mary (O'Dell) Wehrkamp. He passed away peacefully

at his home in Bedford on January 17, 2009.

Don grew up in many states but mostly in the Clarinda, Iowa area. He graduated

from the Clarinda High School with the Class of 1941. Don was united in marriage

to Marjorie Cordess on November 17, 1945 in Troy, Kansas. To this loving

union one child, Monte was born.

Don's first love was farming. He owned and operated several businesses,

a dry goods store and the Gas Stop and D & M Bar. Don always looked for a bargain.

He enjoyed watching sports, especially the St. Louis Cardinals, whom he played

for in the minor leagues. He also enjoyed hearing about the sports his great-

grandchildren

played.

Don's greatest joy in life was his family. He enjoyed having his grandchildren and

great-grandchildren around him.

Left to cherish Don's memory are his loving wife of sixty-three years, Marjorie

Wehrkamp of Bedford; son Monte Wehrkamp and wife Sandy of Gravity; two

grandsons, Greg Wehrkamp and wife Tammy of Bedford; and Brian Wehrkamp

and wife Cally of Bedford; and seven great-grandchildren, Mark, Stacey,

Chelsea, Monte, Seth, Matthew and Kayle, all of Bedford.

Preceding Don in death are his parents, a brother, Robert and three sisters,

Dessie, Roberta and Fama.

Don will be missed by his entire family.

Lenox Time Table, Lenox, Iowa Wednesday January 21, 2009