Taylor County, Iowa obituaries
Pat O'Dell - genpat@netins.net
 

Beck, Wayne Edward - Wayne Edward Beck was born on the family farm in Ringgold County, Iowa on May 6, 1927, to William Beck and Fannie Velma (Baker) Beck. He spent his younger years hunting and trapping on the farm. He graduated from Clearfield High School in 1946, then attended Iowa State University in Ames for one year. He then moved back to farm with his parents, because his father was in declining health. He met the love of his life, Grace Mary Callison, at Calvary Methodist Church where both of her parents were ministers. Wayne and Mary were married on August 22, 1948, and shared 64 beautiful years together before she was called home to heaven in 2012. Their marriage was blessed with four daughters, Trudy, Nancy, Peggy and Mary Lou.

In 1950, after his father died, Wayne and Mary moved permanently to the family farm where he continued to be a good steward of the land, like his father. The Beck Family Farm became a Century Farm in 2017. Wayne also worked for Totes Systems in Lenox as a machinist in the late 60's and early 70's. He was a member of the Methodist Church. Wayne and Mary had many enjoyable pastimes, including getting together with neighbors and friends, square dancing, and country music jams. They both loved dancing but after Mary was “danced out”, Wayne was a sought-after partner to those ladies who had no companion. Another, almost daily routine was chatting with good friends over coffee in Lenox and Creston. In June, he always looked forward to catching up with his relatives at the Beck/Baker reunion. After he could no longer farm, he turned his attention to keeping his yard mowed to perfection, raising a small garden and tinkering around the farm. Wayne also amazed everyone with the shear number of ditties and poems he learned as a boy, even the Preamble to the Constitution. He also loved to hum and sing, entertaining everyone at the nursing home right up to the end.

Left to cherish Wayne’s memory are his four daughters, Trudy Weaver and husband Terry of Sharpsburg, Iowa; Nancy Pugh and husband NL of Cameron, Missouri; Peggy Althaus and husband Tony of Bellevue, Iowa; Mary Lou Cabeen and husband Jim of Mason City, Iowa; eleven grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Hank and Caroline Garner; George Callison; and Joan Callison; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Wayne in death are his parents, William and Fannie Beck; his loving wife Grace Mary in October of 2012; a sister, Wanda Duncan and husband Paul; and a brother, Cecil Beck and wife Fern; two brothers-in-law, Jack Callison and Don Callison; and a granddaughter, Jennifer Jodine Wolfe

 

Bell, David A., Jan 28, 1945 - Nov 8, 2019

David Allen Bell, age 74, of Lenox passed away on Friday, Nov 8, 2019 at his home.

David was born on January 28, 1945 in Worth County, Missouri to William E. Bell and Ora Alice (Zollman) Bell. the family moved to a farm near Blockton, Iowa in 1947. David graduated from Bedford Cummunity High School in 1963. After graduation, he attended AIB Business College in Des Moines, Iowa. David then joined the United States Army and served from 1965 to 1967. After being discharged, he went to work for Barker Implement in Lenox. David also farmed near Lenox until he lost his eyesight especially enjoying his green farm machinery.

David was united in marriage to Patty Brammer on February 10, 1968, and to this union, a daughter, Theresa was born. After his eyesight failed, David became very accomplished in woodworking and various craft projects. Over the last couple of years, David's special friend, Jane Sanburn, became a big part of his life -- working on crafts and keeping each other company. David and Jane thoroughly enjoyed all of their time spent with their many friends and family during their many "break times" at David's house--or anywhere they may be!

Left to cherish his memory of a wonderful grandpa, brother, and friend, is a granddaughter, Cassidi and husband, Aaron Turlock of Lenox; two sisters, Maureen Carpenter and Mary Kay and husband David Loutzenhiser; several cousins, nieces, and a nephew; and many, many good friends.

Preceding David in death is Patty (2016), his daughter, Theresa (2016), special friend, Jane Sanburn (2019), and his parents William F Bell and Ora Bell.

The family of David would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of his friends from all over who have supported and helped David throughout his life.

Although David will be greatly missed, his memory will live on in our hears forever.

 

Bolinger, Gary Eugene - Funeral Services for Gary Bolinger, age 56, who passed away October 21, 2019, will be held at 10 AM, Saturday, October 26, 2019, at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be at the funeral home, Friday, October 25, 2019 from 3-7 PM with family greeting friends from 5-7 PM. Interment will be held at White Oak Cemetery in Pickering, Missouri.

Gary Eugene Bolinger was born January 19th, 1963 in Corning Iowa to Loren and Dorothy Bolinger. Gary grew up on a farm southwest of Clearfield. He graduated from Clearfield High School in 1982. Gary was united in marriage to Lori Griffith on July 28th, 2007. Gary was always heard saying that Lori was "his angel" and the love of his life. They have two children Brodie Joe and Krista Mae who were his world. He loved to hear about their day and to tease or comfort them which ever one they needed. Gary worked with livestock most of his life. He worked for the Bedford Sale Barn and then for the Bedford Vet Clinic for 20 years, then for Iowa Select.

He later went on to work for the Lenox School as a Janitor. He brought home many stories of the staff and kids. He especially enjoyed telling the stories of razzing the staff or getting a hug / high five from the kids. He always went out of his way to talk to and comfort the kids and the staff if he saw their day was not going well or if they just needed someone to be there. It was a blessing to have this job and gave him an opportunity to spend time with kids and to encourage them in their journey.

Gary was a man who loved to tease you and make you laugh. He was a man who loved God, family, and friends.

Preceding Gary in death were his father, Loren Bolinger; mother-in-law Julie Sobbing; father-in-laws Bill Sobbing and Floyd Griffith; and sister, Christine Bolinger.

Gary is survived by his wife, Lori; children, Brodie and Krista; mother, Dorothy; brothers, Rodney (Carol Ann) Bolinger and Virgil (Diana) Bolinger; brothers-in-law, Earl (Megan) Griffith and Randy (Jessica) Griffith; sister-in-law, Wanda Sobbing, nephews, Jacob (Kimmie) Bolinger, Jaydon Knight and Brooks Griffith; nieces, Sara Ontiveros, Jaycee Knight, Jaxy Knight and Rita Sobbing along with many other relatives and friends.

 

Bowers, Anna, - 03 May 1925 - 18 Dec 2019 later

 

Boyd, Larry O. - Larry O. Boyd was born March 1, 1934, the son of Loicen and Marie (King) Boyd in Sheridan, Missouri. He attended school in Sheridan, and was involved in 4-H with his livestock. The family showed livestock at the American Royal on many occasions. He graduated from Horace Mann High School. When Larry was in school he met and fell in love with Rita Heitman. The couple were united in marriage on September 16, 1955. They moved to Phoenix, Arizona where Larry attended Arizona State University in Tempe, graduating in 1957, with his Bachelor's Degree. While in Arizona he served honorably in the United States Coast Guard Reserves. After moving back to Sheridan, they raised registered Polled Hereford cattle, as well as row crops. The couple were blessed with the birth of three daughters, LaRi, LouAnn and LaRue. In 1973, the family moved to Bedford, Iowa where Larry became the Secretary/Manager at Farmer's Mutual Insurance of Taylor County. He later started his own independent agency, Boyd Insurance, now known as Ewart Insurance. This business has been family owned for over 45 years. During the girls high school years, Larry and Rita enjoyed hosting a foreign exchange student, Jeanette Dodson of New Zealand. The family continues to keep in contact with Jeanette.

Larry always got involved in what he believed in, and that included politics, he was Proud to be a Democrat! He served in several capacities, including President at the Worth County Farm Bureau; Civil Defense Director for Worth County, Missouri; Sheridan, Missouri Lions Club, Bedford, Iowa Lions Club and the Bedford Industrial Corporation. He was a board member of the Albany, Missouri Production Credit Association for many years.

Larry enjoyed tinkering in his shop. He enjoyed garden tractor pulling and got his daughters involved in it also. He also loved to work on and pulling his John Deere 4020 tractor at all the local fairs.

He was proud to be a Master Mason at Taylor Lodge 156 in Bedford, and was a member of Za-Ga-Zig Shrine in Des Moines, Iowa. While in Arizona he was a member of the El Zaribah Shrine in Phoenix, Arizona. Larry and Rita enjoyed wintering in Arizona where they participated in the Shrine Club Parades for many years.

Left to cherish Larry's memory are his three daughters, LaRi Liberty and husband Ralph of Kansas City, Missouri; LouAnn Ewart and husband Rick of Bedford, Iowa; and LaRue Allee and husband Chris of Maryville, Missouri; four grandchildren, Jackie Minor and husband Brent of New Market, Iowa; Heather Hayes and husband Dusty of Bedford, Iowa; Gary Ewart and wife Chelsea of Bennington, Nebraska; and Nick Allee of Maryville, Missouri; four great-grandchildren, Lucas and Makenna Minor and Kane and Kashlynn Hayes; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Larry in death are his parents Loicen and Marie Boyd; his sister, Norma and husband Larry Muffler; his loving wife Rita in December of 2018; and his beautiful granddaughter, Lindsey Allee in June of 2019.

Gathering of Friends for Larry Boyd, age 85, of Maryville, Missouri, formerly of Bedford, who passed away Thursday, September 12, 2019 at the Maryville Living Center in Maryville, Missouri, will be held Sunday, September 22, 2019 at the Bedford Country Club from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, You are invited to join the family for light refreshments and fellowship. Memorials may be given in Larry’s name. Larry was a member of Missouri Cremation Services. Online guest book and obituary at www.missouricremations.com

He was a farmer, a friend, a businessman and a neighbor

 

Brokaw, Glenn Eldon - Glenn Eldon Brokaw was born December 5, 1928, the son of Charles and Mae Brokaw. He was raised on a farm in Taylor County, Iowa with eight siblings and graduated from Lenox High School. He was married to his loving wife Elizabeth Hoskinson on December 24, 1950 and was blessed with seven children, twenty-five grandchildren and fifty great-grandchildren. Praise the Lord!

Glenn served in the United States Army with the 45th Infantry of Oklahoma from 1950 to 1952 in Korea. He served as a radio operator utilizing Morse code which he learned as a Boy Scout. He returned home to begin his life work as a farmer on land owned by his grandparents in Adams County. He enjoyed being an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and St. Louis Cardinals. His greatest joy came from his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the blessing of his marriage with Elizabeth for 69 years and generations of beautiful, loving children. Glenn and Elizabeth have also been blessed by years of wonderful fellowship with their faithful friends at Area Bible Fellowship Church.

Cherishing Glenn's life today are Elizabeth and his son Jon Brokaw, son Joel and wife Karma Brokaw, daughter Jayne and husband Terry Barnett, daughter Jill and husband Mike Evans, daughter Jodi and husband Bill Lyddon, daughter Jina and husband Paul Nelson, and son Jed and wife Kay Brokaw, along with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many other family members and friends

 

Brown, Annabell Campbell

Funeral Services for Annabell Brown will be Sunday, December 1, 2019 at 2 PM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home in Bedford, Iowa. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service. Interment will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton, Iowa.

Annabell (Campbell) Brown passed away on Wednesday November 27th, 2019 at the age of 89. Annabell was born on June 8, 1930 in Redding, Iowa to Oren E. Campbell and Kathryn P. (Garity) Campbell (both deceased). Annabell was the 3rd of 9 children: Margaret Hays (deceased), Pat Campbell (deceased), Betty Fordyce, Oren Jr. Campbell, Robert (Bob) Campbell, Kathy Sixkiller, Linda Auger (deceased) and Cherri Fergeson.

Annabell attended school in Redding, Iowa. After High School she ventured to Colorado with a friend and spent a year working as a nanny for a family that owned a turkey farm. She met Laverne Brown the day she returned to Iowa. Laverne had driven his friend Harold Norris to the train station in Creston, Iowa to pick up Harold's wife's sister and her friend (Annabell). Laverne asked her out on a date on that same day. Their first date was a trip to St. Joe Missouri to take a load of cattle to the stock yard in his new truck. They were married almost a year later on March 12, 1948.

She was a true farmer's wife and worked beside Laverne farming the land and raising chickens, cattle, hogs and sheep over the years. She loved caring for all the animals, and watching the deer and birds on their farm they lived on just east of Bedford, Iowa. She looked forward to the family all being home and always cooked more food and pies than you could ever eat. She really enjoyed it when everyone came to the farm for big family reunions or just stopped by to talk. Annabell fondly remembered the times that her and Laverne spent with family and friends, traveling, camping with the Good Sam's Club and at the Iowa State Fair.

Annabell is survived by her husband of 71 years, Laverne Brown; sons, Tom and Dan and his wife Peg; daughter Judy and her husband Alan; grandsons Thomas (Sonia) and Jake; granddaughters, Tara (Cory) and Kaley (Byron); great-grandson Dallas; great-granddaughters Clarke and Malin.

Annabell was preceded in death by sons Gary and Johnnie.

We would like to extend a sincere Thank You to all of our family and friends for your help and kindness. It has meant more to us than you will ever know.

Published in Des Moines Register from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, 2019

Brown, Carolyn Marie Wheeler - Carolyn Marie Wheeler, middle child of Orvis Wilbur and Marjorie Mae (Mullen) Wheeler, was born May 4, 1948 at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, Missouri. Along with sister, Barbara and brother, Eldon, Carolyn grew to maturity on the family farm in Ross Township, south of Bedford, Iowa. She started country school, Ross Center #8 and went until the district's re-organization doing away with country schools. Carolyn graduated in 1966 from Bedford High School. During her junior and senior years of high school Carolyn worked at the State Savings Bank.

On November 27, 1966 Carolyn married Leo Brown at the United Methodist Church in Bedford. To this union, three children were born; Brenda Kay, Randall Leo and Todd Alan. They started out their married life on a farm in Marshall Township near Leo's father, Francis where they farmed with him. In 1969, they moved to a farm east of Conway. In the fall of 1973, they purchased 280 acres in Benton Township, 4 miles north of Bedford, where they called home for 46 years.

Carolyn loved being a farm wife, working side by side in the fields with Leo up until the time the boys were old enough to help. She then took various jobs in town at local grocery stores and secretary/accounting jobs before retiring from Feeder's Grain and Supply in Corning.

Carolyn was involved in various clubs, such as the Victory Club, DOC Club and JT Club. She was a member of the Bedford American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 164 for many years. She was a member of the Taylor County Pork Producers where she at one time held the position of secretary/treasurer. She was a lifetime member of the Taylor County Fair Board and once held the position of Treasurer. She served 20 years as Soil Commissioner and was recently presented a sign for her service. She also was Clerk of Graceland Cemetery.

Leo and Carolyn celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, November 27, 2006, prior to his passing in 2007. They enjoyed square dancing in their early married years. Carolyn enjoyed playing games with her granddaughters, Kerri and Kaitlyn, when they were young and enjoyed watching them grow up. She attended their sporting events, went on shopping trips with them and loved having them out for sleepovers. She dearly loved her great grandchildren; Averi, Adalyn and Grayson, who were the highlight of her last 3 1/2 years. She took great pride in the many flowers she planted around the homestead. She enjoyed playing cards, family get-togethers and traveling. Special places visited were Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica and Las Vegas.

Left to cherish her memory are; daughter, Brenda Brown, sons, Randy and Todd (Jennifer) Brown; granddaughters, Kerri (Shawn) Kasha, Kaitlyn (Jacob) Motsinger; great-grandchildren, Averi Kasha, Adalyn and Grayson Motsinger; sister, Barb (Gene) Gaddis; nephews, Jeremy Wheeler, Mike Gaddis and niece, Lori Vestal; aunt, Irma Hill; brother-in-law, Gary (Nancy) Brown; sister-in-law, Gayle (Ellis) Houk; brother-in-law, Al Beckman and a host of cousins and friends.

Preceding her in death; husband, Leo; parents, Orvis and Marjorie Wheeler; brother, Eldon; great nephew, Devon Wheeler; in-laws, Francis and Hazel Brown; sisters-in-law, Shirley Cramer and Charlene Beckman.

Carolyn was a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt. She will be so greatly missed by her family and friends

 

Brown, Judith Marlene "Judy" Reed -

Judith Marlene “Judy” Brown of McKinney, Texas passed away on November 9, 2019 at the age of 83. She was born on March 9, 1936 to Cecil and Gladys (Kernen) Reed in Sharpsburg, Iowa.  Judy graduated from high school in Bedford, Iowa and went to nursing school at Iowa Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Des Moines, Iowa; where she earned her degree as a registered nurse.  She married Bernard Brown on March 9, 1958 in Bedford, Iowa.  Judy was a lifetime member of the Methodist Church.  She was a devoted wife and mother and her greatest joys were her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild.  In retirement, she had over 2,000 hours of volunteering at the Medical Center of McKinney.  Judy was a very loving and compassionate person, who had many lifetime friends and was always there to lend an ear. 

She is survived by her daughters, Joni Lea Britain and husband, Jeff of Prosper, Texas and Julie Kay Brown of Plano, Texas; son, Jeffrey Darin Brown and wife, Kim of Aubrey, Texas; grandchildren, Joshua Britain, Jessica Britain and Quentin Brown; great granddaughter, Ellie Britain; sister, Bobbi Sleep and husband, Bruce of Aurora, Colorado; cousin, Glenda Kernen; a host of nieces and nephews; and numerous other loving family, all of Bernie’s family (The Browns loud and proud) and many friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Brown; and parents, Cecil and Gladys Reed; aunts and uncles, Ruth and Vertis Reeder, Glenn and Doris Kernen; nephew, Steve Kernen.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 15, 2019 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas

 

Browne, Leonard Henry "Buck" - Leonard Henry "Buck" Browne Jr., son of Leonard Henry Browne Sr. and Edna Pauline (Green) Browne was born May 17, 1938 in Kansas City, Kansas and passed from this life, peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at Clearview Home in Mt. Ayr, Iowa at 81 years of age.

Buck moved with his family from Kansas City to Bedford, Iowa when he was a young boy. He graduated from Bedford High School in 1957. He married Pamela Fern Straight on February 5, 1961 at Bedford, Iowa, two sons, Mark and Mike, blessed this union.

Buck and Pam lived in Kansas City, Kansas. Buck served in the Army National Guard and the Army Reserves. Pam & Buck returned to Bedford where Buck worked for his father-in-law at Straight Oil Company in Bedford. He moved to Mt. Ayr and Creston to work for Places and then A&E Dairy in delivery. Buck & his family moved to Osceola in 1976 to work for Old Home Bread and later began his favorite job driving a truck over the road for Jimmy Dean. He also drove for Pulley Freight and Munson Transportation before driving for Keane Thummel Trucking in New Market.

Buck and Pam moved back to Bedford and Buck was very involved in the Bedford community, including Pride of Bedford, Bedford Lions Club and volunteered for many community activities including helping when RAGBRAI came to Bedford.

Buck loved driving a truck. He enjoyed the other drivers and stories of on the road. He was always telling jokes and cutting up. Buck was a hard worker and family provider.

Those relatives who preceded Buck in death were his parents, Edna and Leonard Browne, Sr.,

Buck leaves to cherish his memory; wife, Pam Browne of Bedford, IA, son, Mark Browne of Osceola, IA, son, Mike Browne of Lubbock, TX, granddaughter, Randi (Juan) Macias of Colorado Springs, CO, granddaughter, Bailey Browne of Osceola, IA, grandson, Walker (Sarah) Browne of Lubbock, TX, granddaughter, Justice (Brandon) Barker of Lubbock, TX, great children, Abbie, Sadie and Emillie Browne and Cheyenne and J. W. Barker, sister, Linda Browne of Wichita, KS as well as other relatives and many friends

 

Burns, Donna Rae Akers - Funeral Services for Donna Burns will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 10:30 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation, at the funeral home, will be held Tuesday, March 3, 2020 from 3 PM until 7 PM with family greeting friends from 5-7 PM. Interment will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be directed to Vintage Park, Lenox, Iowa or Village Care Center in Maryville, Missouri. Donna Rae (Akers) Burns peacefully passed away on 29 February, 2020, after a short stay at the Village Care Center in Maryville, Missouri.

Donna was born March 21, 1937, near Gravity, Iowa, to Darrell and Atha (Cunning) Akers. As a child Donna grew up on the family farm along with her brothers and sisters, helping with the many chores associated with rural life. She attended country school and then Gravity High School where she graduated in 1955.

Donna married Wayne Morehouse on 25 March, 1955, and the couple settled on a farm near Bedford, Iowa. To this union came a daughter, Debra. Tragically, Wayne was killed in a car accident near Bedford in 1958.

Donna married Bill Burns on 23 May, 1959. Bill was a teacher and farmer, and Donna a homemaker as they moved around Northwest Missouri and Southwest Iowa. The family moves included Galt, Missouri; Eagleville, Missouri; Bedford, Iowa; and Orient, Iowa; before settling back to a small farm east of Bedford in 1969. Donna always kept a large garden and helped with the livestock to include raising dozens of Holstein calves brought in each year from Wisconsin. The family grew during this time with the birth of Kelly in 1960, Becki in 1966, Sherri in 1970, and Holly in 1974.

In 1976, the family sold the farm and moved to Bedford into the large, yellow house on the edge of town. Donna operated a Home Daycare Center where she lovingly attended many young children from the Bedford community.

In 1990, Donna and Bill moved to Huntsville and then Salisbury, Missouri, where Bill was the Middle School Principal for Westran School District. Donna retired to Maryville, Missouri, following Bill’s death in 1995 where she lived until August of 2017. Donna kept very busy spending time with her grown children and grandchildren as well as her sisters. The last several years of her life were spent battling the impacts of a terrible disease that viciously stole her memories. Her daily care was trusted to the staff at Vintage Park Assisted Living and Memory Care in Lenox, Iowa.

Both faith and family were important to Donna. Donna regularly attended church services for as long as her health allowed. She was a member of The Bridge in Maryville, Missouri, where she found many ways to serve others. When Donna could no longer attend services at the Bridge, she still enjoyed listening to services on television and spent many hours listening to gospel music videos.

Family and friends remember Donna as a gentle, sweet lady with a good sense of humor. She loved to care for plants and tend her always tidy yard and house. Visits to Donna’s home always included plenty of cookies, cake and ice cream. Donna would never turn down a chance to go shopping and she enjoyed working on jigsaw puzzles. Donna also enjoyed the time she was able to spend laughing and reminiscing with her brothers and sisters.

Left to cherish Donna’s memory are her children, Debbie Ritchie of Bedford, Iowa; Kel (Karen) Burns of Papillion, Nebraska; Becki (John) Booth of Maryville, Missouri; Sherri Burns of Maryville, Missouri; and Holly (Matt) Joy of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; grandchildren Jill (Eric) Ford, Matt (Jane) Burns, Beth (Tim) Merrill, Keely (Justin) McAleer, Megan Burns, Jeff (Molly) Ritchie, Amber Booth, Tim Booth, Matt Booth, Carter Caceres, Max Joy, and Ryan Joy; sisters Wylene Barker, Karen Withington, and Pat (Eddie) Johnson; brothers Corwan (Virginia) Akers and Dennis (Rita) Akers; brother-in-law, Lewis McColm; 12 great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Preceding Donna in death are her parents, Darrell and Atha Akers; loving husbands, Wayne Morehouse (1958) and Bill Burns (1995); son-in-law, Kevin Ritchie; brother, Roland Akers; sisters, Phyllis Akers and Dwylah McColm; and brothers-in-law Melvin Withington and Bob Barker

 

Byers, Sharon K. King -

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Sharon K. Byers (Saint Charles, Missouri), born in Blockton, Iowa, who passed away on January 19, 2020 at the age of 77.

She was predeceased by : her parents, Eldon King and Imojean King; her daughter Elizabeth Chelsea Summers; her brother Leroy King (late Dorothy); and her brother-in-law Allen Miller.

She is survived by : her siblings, William King (Betty McEwen) and Alice Miller; her nieces and nephews, Christian Magnus (John), Kelly Newsom, Gregory Miller and Brant King; her grandchildren, Ansel and Astrid Smith; and her friend Elizabeth Grygo (David Smith). She is also survived by many great-nephews, nieces

Byers, Sharon K.

(nee King) of Saint Charles, MO, passed away Sunday, January 19, 2020 at the age of 77.

Cherished daughter of the late Eldon and Imojean King; dear sister of William (Betty McEwen) King and Alice Miller; treasured aunt of Christian (John) Magnus, Kelly Newsom, Gregory Miller, and Brant King; many great-nephews, nieces and church family at First St. Charles United Methodist; like a grandmother to Ansel and Astrid Smith; dear friend of Elizabeth (David Smith) Grygo.

Sharon was also preceded in death by her daughter, Elizabeth Chelsea Summers, her brother Leroy (late Dorothy) King, and her brother-in law Allen Miller.

Sharon was a member of First St. Charles United Methodist church and was the organist for 49 years. She was also a member of the Missouri Choral Society and was a Composer.

Sharon loved to travel, and has been to Europe, China, Spain, Alaska and many other places. She enjoyed playing the organ and had a great appreciation for art. Sharon also enjoyed trivia and playing words with friends. Sharon was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Sharon's name to First St. Charles United Methodist Church 801 First Capital Dr. St. Charles, MO 63301.

Services: A memorial service will be held at First St. Charles United Methodist Church, on February 1, 2020, at 10:00am.

Published in St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Jan. 26, 2020

 

Davis, George Wesley - George Wesley Davis was born November 7, 1940, in Iowa City, Iowa the son of Melvin Davis and Gladys (Gold) Davis. He grew up in the Conway area attending school, graduating from Lenox High School with the Class of 1959. Soon after graduation, George volunteered to serve his county with the United States Navy. He served from 1959 to 1963. Upon his honorable discharge he met Kay and the couple were united in marriage on February 22, 1964. The couple were blessed with the birth of one daughter, Robin. The couple later divorced and George was a long-time custodian for the Southeast Polk Community School. When he turned 70, George retired and moved to Lenox to be near his daughter.

Left to cherish George's memory are his daughter, Robin Flannigan and husband Jimmy of Lenox, Iowa; two sisters, Marton McMahill of Ankeny, Iowa; and Patty Shafar of Bedford, Iowa; his ex-wife, Kay Davis of Princeton, Missouri; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding George in death are his parents, Melvin and Gladys Davis; a sister, Lavon Vest; and two brothers, Roquel Davis and Butch Davis

 

Dugger, Gladys May Seymour - GLADYS MAY (SEYMOUR) DUGGER age 99 of Clarinda, Iowa, passed away at Goldenrod Manor on Tuesday, February 25, 2020. Gladys was born on September 6, 1920 to Otto Warren and Mary Anne (Shores) Seymour. Gladys was born in Nortonville, Illinois, Morgan County. Gladys was the youngest of 6 older brothers. When she was a year old, her family followed the wheat harvest while living out of grain bins, railroad cars, and tents. At age 4, her family moved and settled in Anderson, Iowa; where she spent most of her growing up years. Gladys quit high school in her junior year, due to lack of family finances, but in 1966 she tested out and received her GED through Iowa Western Community College in Clarinda, Iowa. She always said "she went through high school with her daughter Anne".

Gladys married Walter Dale Dugger on February 20, 1940, in Rock Port, Missouri, at the courthouse. Gladys and Dale had known each other all their lives. Their families had both moved from Illinois and settled in the Anderson-Sidney area. Dale had watched Gladys grow up, and he was friends with her brothers and had helped her father farm. Gladys used to go to the river bottom at an early age around 8 years old and would cook the boys their meals and ride the tow bar of Dale's tractor as he farmed. A fun fact was that Dale was 13 years older than Gladys. Gladys and Dale lived in a river shack on the West Nishnabotna River when they were first married and Dale farmed. Gladys always talked about special friends and neighbors coming to visit, cooking good food to eat, and the egg crates on the wall to put the dishes in.

Gladys always mentioned neighbors: Deiley and Clyde. Deiley always told granny "peace of mind is worth it all". Gladys and Dale soon moved to Chicago, Illinois to help with the war effort. Gladys worked at Montgomery Ward and Dale worked for Archer Daniel Midlands. In 1943, Dale was drafted into World War 2, and Gladys returned to Iowa and purchased a farm in Taylor County near Gravity. There she raised mostly cattle and hogs, boarded school teachers, and worked many various jobs. Dale returned from the war in 1945 and had earned two bronze stars. In 1946, they had one daughter, Hilda Anne. Gladys and Dale lived a simple and happy life on the farm for over 60 years. Gladys was involved in a neighborhood club called "The Wild Rose" and was an active member of the Gravity Christian Church.

Gladys had a faithful and steadfast spirit as she raised and supported her daughter, granddaughters and great grandsons and great granddaughters, as long as she was able. She was known for her hospitality and sharing her home with family, neighbors, and friends, and there was always good food and laughter that surrounded her kitchen table. She always had coffee on and time for a break in between her farm labors. She was widely known for her delicious pies and Sunday spreads! Family and friends have always enjoyed "Short and Glads" hospitality! In 2003, Gladys sold her farm and moved to Clarinda to live and to be near her great grandsons. Her exact words were "You are not leaving me here alone, I'm going with the boys!"

In October of 2013, Gladys moved to West Ridge Nursing Home due to her failing health. Her friendship and love will be greatly missed! Gladys is survived by her two granddaughters, Rebecca Anne Christie and Melissa Kay Basurto; six great grandsons (Rebecca's) Richard Lee (Daniel), Riley Dale and wife Stephanie, Ryan Joel and fiance` Lilliana, and Ross Raymond, (Melissa's) Ruben Dale and Isaac Nathaniel; one great granddaughter (Melissa's) Emily Elizabeth; and three great-great grandchildren: (Riley's) Kiley Marie and Cooper Dale; (Ryan's) Tyten Ryan.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Saturday, February 29, 2020, at the Crawford-Marshall Funeral Chapel in Sidney, IA, with Pastor James Patterson of New Life Assembly in Clarinda, IA officiating. Visitation will be with the family from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM Saturday at the Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at the Sidney, Iowa Cemetery. Memorials will go the New Life Assembly Church of Clarinda or the Clarinda Regional Health Center Ambulance Service. The Crawford-Marshall Funeral Chapel in Sidney, IA is in charge of arrangements

 

Fleetwood, Jeffery Lynn - Jeffery Lynn Fleetwood was born April 28, 1961, and entered into peace February 15, 2020, after a lengthy illness. He was the son of Walter Fleetwood and Charlotte (Woods) Fleetwood. He grew up in Gravity, graduating from Bedford High School with the Class of 1979.

Jeff loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed being Santa for the Gravity Community. Jeff's greatest passion was building model cars, and customizing the small scale Hot Wheel and Johnny Lightning cars, in which he would travel to Indiana and Ohio to attend The Johnny Lightning Fest, where he won many trophies and awards. In the early 1980's, Jeff began a mobile DJ service know as "Jeff's Jams", and he would travel to local bars and other places to play that old time rock & roll, which he loved! He enjoyed playing the electric guitar, and joining others for an afternoon of tunes.

Jeff worked various jobs over the years, but he enjoyed working at The Clarinda Academy, and Gear For Sports. He made many friends, and enjoyed life. He had a great sense of humor, always trying to make people laugh. He would go out of his way to help some one.

Left to cherish Jeff’s memory is his brother, Ron Fleetwood of Gravity, Iowa; his sister, Bonnie Gross of Gravity, Iowa; two step-sisters, Lorna Selders and husband Daryn of Corning, Iowa; Sheryl DePatten and husband Pete and their family of Des Moines, Iowa; a niece, Tonya Fleetwood of Brooklyn, New York; a nephew, Eric Gross and wife Essie and their family of Clarinda, Iowa; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Preceding Jeff in death are his parents, Walter Fleetwood and Charlotte (Fleetwood) Akers; his step-father, Lloyd Akers; his maternal and paternal grandparents; his sister, Connie Fleetwood; and step-brother, Andrew Akers

 

Fluke, Dorthy Barcus - Funeral Services for Dorthy (Barcus) Fluke, age 84, of Bedford, Iowa will be held Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 2 PM at Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 1 PM until service time. Memorials may be directed to the Bedford United Methodist Church. Arrangements were entrusted to Cummings Family Funeral Home for Mrs. Fluke. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummingsfamilyfuneralhome.com under Obituaries.

Dorthy Marie (Barcus) Fluke was born February 13, 1935 south of Mound City, Missouri to Earl Barcus and Edith Martha (McCullah) Barcus. Dorthy graduated from Pickering High School and then attended Northwest Teacher's College in Maryville, Missouri. Following her graduation from College she taught at Northboro, Iowa.

Dorthy was united in marriage to Glen Fluke on June 11, 1961 at the Clearmont, Missouri Methodist Church. The couple then settled on a farm southeast of Bedford and she began teaching 2nd grade in Blockton, Iowa. Dorthy then taught 2nd grade for several years in Bedford.

Dorthy and Glen were blessed with the love of their life, Glenda Marie Fluke, on October 1, 1967. Dorthy, Glenda and Glen enjoyed the farm life. Through the years they were involved in many activities together including the Bedford Saddle Club, Wagoneers, and The Pony Express. They were also a members of the Bedford United Methodist Church where Dorthy taught Sunday School for many years and was active in the choir.

Dorthy was a wonderful cook and always enjoyed tending a large garden. She loved to can vegetables and share her bountiful harvest with others. Dorthy also enjoyed listening to country music.

Dorthy was preceded in death by her husband, Glen Fluke; father, Earl Barcus; mother, Edith Barcus; step-mother, Nora Barcus; and brother, Edward Barcus.

Dorthy is survived by her daughter, Glenda Marie Fluke; brother, Jim (Sue) Barcus of Hopkins, Missouri; sister, Edna Bowen of Austin, Texas; along with many nephews, nieces, relatives and friends

 

French, Bonnie Riedl - Celebration of life services for Bonnie T. French will be Thursday, January 16, 2020 with visitation at 1:00 pm until service time at 2:00 pm at the Presbyterian church at 405 West Michigan St. in Lenox.
Bonnie was born April 28, 1943 and went to be with her Lord and Savior January 12, 2020.
Arrangements were entrusted to Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Bonnie Theresa French (Riedl), daughter of Frank and Lucille Riedl of Kansas City, Missouri was born April 28, 1943 in Kansas City, Missouri. She was the third of eight children.
Bonnie graduated from Westport High School in Kansas City.
She married Bennett A. French on January 20, 1962 and the couple was blessed with six children.
Bonnie was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved her family and she was faithful to her Christian faith.
She was skilled with her crafts and caring for and growing her flowers and plants.
She loved the outdoors, fishing, swimming, and boating.
She loved music and dancing.
She loved birds and fed the wild birds and she had several birds as pets over the years.
She loved children and cherished her time serving as an aide for the Lenox Elementary School.
She was deeply faithful in her belief in Christ and the Trinity.
Her life was unselfish as she focused her life on her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bonnie's family was blessed to have her in their lives. She was beautiful inside and out. It was a privilege to share that unmatched beauty.
She succumbed to cancer and went quietly to be with her Savior.
Bonnie was a stay-at-home mother, yet she found time to help Ben with their business, Forsythe-French-inc., and Bennett French and Associates.
Bonnie is survived by her husband, Ben, daughters Tammy Hickman (husband Alan), Esther Schmitz (husband Rick), sons Dennis, Bennett (wife Rachel),Trevor (husband Greg), Frank (wife Tammy),14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren

 

Garner, Earl "Hank" Henry - Earl 'Hank' Henry Garner was born January 7, 1935 to Earl Garner and Bernice (Sandusky) Garner near Rock Port, Missouri. Hank entered into rest December 25, 2019 at the Clearview Home Mt. Ayr, Iowa at the age of 84 years. Hank’s early life was spent on a farm near Bedford, Iowa. He attended country school and graduated from Bedford High School with the Class of 1953. After graduation he entered the Army for two years serving his country honorably. He worked for the Taylor County Department of Roads for over 40 years.

On February 14, 1988 he was united in marriage to Caroline Nelson at his sister Cherilyn's home in Shenandoah, Iowa. Along with Caroline came a large family that Hank loved very much. Hank cherished his times with them.
After retirement Hank and Caroline spent their days together enjoying life. They camped at various places, played cards everyday with their coffee and traveled to Branson watching several different musical shows, as they both had a love for music. They would eat out every evening at different places, but their favorite was the Windrow in Creston. Hank was a man that helped with anything for his family. We always knew we could count on Hank to be there for us.

Hank loved woodworking, he made so many different crafts out of wood for his family, while also having a frame making business with his brother-in-law, George Callison. If you knew Hank well, you would discover his hidden humor. Hank was a quiet man but always knew how to show his humor with surprisingly hilarious comments….he was a very funny man!!!

Hank always had pride in the way he looked, always dressed nice, hair in place, and you would always see him in his nice leather jacket. Hank also kept his home to perfection. His yard was immaculate, and if something needed repaired in his home, camper or vehicle he would be getting it repaired by the next day!! Hank and Caroline attended Presbyterian Church in Lenox with Pastor Tim Maxa. Not only was Tim their pastor whom they greatly respected, but also someone they considered a very close friend!

Hank was such a wonderful husband to Caroline. They supported each other in everything and took such good care of each other. Hank and Caroline had 32 years of an amazing marriage. They were so blessed to find each other! Each and every family member has so many wonderful memories of Hank, he will be missed by so many including family, life long friends, and employees and friends from Clearview Nursing HomeLeft to cherish Hank’s memory are his loving wife Caroline Garner of Mt. Ayr, IA; his sister Cherilyn (Jim) Ripley of College Springs, IA; sister-in-law Mildred Garner of Wakeeney, KS; his stepchildren Judy (Steve) Sandah; Jim (Debbie) Nelson; Jeanie (Greg) Larson; Kenny (Chong) Nelson; 9 step-grandkids; 18 step-great grandkids; along with many other family members and friends. In June of 2020, Hank would have been celebrating becoming a great-great-grandpa.

Preceding Hank in death are his parents Earl and Bernice Garner; two brothers, Gayle and Neal Garner; a nephew Allen Garner; and a ste-grandson, Chad Larson

Clearfield Cemetery.

 

 

Glidden, Joanie - Juanita JoAnn Herron - Funeral Services for Joanie Glidden, age 72, of Bedford, Iowa will be held Thursday, February 13, 2020 at 11 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 10 AM until service time.

Juanita JoAnn (Herron) Glidden was born in Maryville, Missouri, December 8, 1947 to Ralph Herron and Darlene (Thomas) Derry. Joanie grew up in Conway and Bedford and attended school there.

Joanie married the love of her life Larry Glidden August 26, 1972. Joanie and Larry settled in Bedford after they were married and lived there until her passing. Joanie attended the Bedford Missionary Church when she was younger and her health allowed her to do so. Joanie was a life-long Elvis Presley fan, enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, sudoku puzzles, enjoyed watching the Oprah Winfrey show and her soap operas. Joanie especially loved visiting and sharing stories with her family and friends. Her smile and care for others were her finest qualities.

Joanie is preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Herron and Darlene Derry; step-father, Wesley Derry; sister, Kathleen Thrasher; brother, Jim Thrasher and nephews, Troy Skinner and Zeke Thrasher.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband Larry Glidden; sisters, Gloria Hawn, Virginia (Howard) Read; brothers, Jerry Herron, Charles (Jacki) Thrasher, Tom Thrasher along with many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends

 

Green, Robert James -

Robert James Green passed from this life into heaven on January 27, 2020, at the age of 91. Bob, the eldest of six children, was born to James Carl and Hazel Irene (Sexton) Green on July 11,1928, at their home in Gravity, Iowa. At the age of 5 he started first grade, otherwise the country school would close.  Robert was the only first grade student. The family moved to Idaho in 1935, then on to Washington in 1936, returning to Gravity in 1944. He graduated high school on May 17, 1945. When he was only 16 years old. The same day his younger brother Delbert graduated eighth grade and his youngest sister Barbara was born so James and Hazel were unable to attend the ceremonies.  At the time the boys were required to take the test for officers’ training school. The test proctor said of all the years she had given the test he was the first to score 100 percent. He didn’t go to officer’s training school because he wasn’t 18 and he would be in charge of men older than him.  Bob stayed home on the farm with parents.   After graduating from Gravity High School in 1945, Robert farmed with his family until their return to Washington in 1948. In Washington, he worked for a short time logging with Hogan and Grasset, then started a career with the SP&S Railroad, where he was quickly promoted to foreman. 

Bob married Veta (Ridnour) in 1949.  Their union was blessed with two sons, Robert Alan (1953) and Patrick Lynn (1955). In 1952, Bob and his brother Delbert were drafted into the U.S. Marine Corps and sent to Camp Pendleton in California.  Robert proudly served his country for two years. He spent part of his time in Japan, where he served as an expert rifleman. His sister, Barbara remembers coming home from school and finding their mother sitting on the couch reading a letter from Robert and praying that he would not be sent to Korea.  

When the boys were teenagers, Bob moved his family to Alaska, where he worked for the University of Alaska for 11 years in the parts and purchasing department. Veta passed away from cancer during this time, prompting Bob to take an early retirement and return to Washington. In 1980, Bob met Linda (Schnepp). He moved to Grant City, Missouri in early 1981.  Bob and Linda were joined in marriage on October 23, 1982, and the couple moved to Blockton, Iowa. Their marriage was blessed with their beautiful daughter, Tiffany Nicole. Bob made his home in Blockton, Iowa for his remaining 38 years.  

            Among his many hobbies, Bob particularly enjoyed bowling and golf. He bowled on several teams in Washington, Alaska, and Iowa, where he won multiple trophies. Bob spent countless hours on the Grant City Golf Course, and even worked as a greenskeeper. It was a rare occasion for him to miss a men’s or couple’s night. Bob and Linda frequently golfed with their good friends, and when Linda had to work, Bob proudly took Tiffany to the course where he passed on his love of golfing to her. Bob continued to golf until 2015, when his health no longer allowed him to do so. He also enjoyed reading, especially Westerns.  Bob was an avid gun collector who made his own ammunition and could easily spend hours discussing different types of guns. Throughout his life, Bob loved many animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. He had a big heart and couldn’t turn away a stray. 

            Preceding him in death were his first wife Veta, son Johnny Michael, daughters Melissa Renee and Holly Anne, parents, Hazel and Jim, and siblings Ruth Patterson (Fred), Tommy (Pat), Glenn, and brother-in -law John Schwab. Robert is survived by his wife Linda (Blockton, IA), daughter Tiffany (boyfriend Derek Weller) (Sharpsburg, IA), sons Patrick (Kettle Falls, Washington) and Bob (Colleen) (Saldonta, Alaska), siblings Barbara Schwab (Cook, Washington) and Delbert (Lois) (Underwood, Washington), sister-in law Diane Green (Cook, Washington), 5 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. 

            Funeral Service will be  held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, February 1, 2020 in the Blockton Christian Church in Blockton, Iowa. Burial will be  in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton with military rites by American Legion Post #443 and U.S. Marine Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 P.M. Friday at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, Missouri

 

Hensley, Thomas Mark - Memorial Services for Thomas Hensley, age 63, who passed away January 5, 2020 will be held Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 3 PM at Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Thursday from 1 PM until service time.

Tom was born in Maryville, Missouri, at St. Francis Hospital on September 24, 1956, to Donald Dean Hensley and Gretchen (Timberlake) Hensley. He was their only child.

Tom began his education in the Bedford Schools and later when the family moved to Dunlap, Iowa, where he graduated from the Dunlap School District. He participated in football, which fostered a love of the game throughout his life. He also participated in band playing the drums. His education continued with him attending Hawkeye Tech, at Waterloo, Iowa, where he majored in Animal Husbandry.

Tom was baptized in the Bedford Christian Church, though he was not a regular church goer, he always had a strong faith throughout his life. He always tried to do the right thing, he just didn't always make the best choices.

Tom's love for animals began at an early age, the family always had cats, a dog, some chickens for him to care for and/or play with. He had a pony named Red, that he bargained for and then went home and told his Mother she would need to pay for the pony! He loved Red!

As soon as he could join 4-H, he began showing livestock. His first year he showed sheep due to the death of a Hereford steer, raised by his grandfather. The love of showing and cattle had taken flight. He was a cattle man all his life. He worked with many young people teaching them the art of "showing" cattle. His prize student was his daughter, Amanda Ann, aka, Mandy. The were quite a team!

Tom also loved to garden, watch NASCAR races, college football and basketball games. The Iowa State Cyclones were his favorite team and the Iowa Hawkeyes, when they weren't playing the Cyclones! He also loved to watch old westerns.

Tom liked to cook and try new recipes. He was a wonderful pie baker, consequently he watched many food shows to get new ideas.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughter, Amanda and husband DJ; grandchildren, Sophia, Jackson, Carter and Cash; aunt, Ann Robinson and husband Ray along with a host of other relatives and friends

 

Jackson, Glen Andrew - Glen Andrew Jackson was one of 15 children born on March 15, 1938, the son of Orren Jackson and Abena (Gronwald) Jackson in Sheridan, Missouri. He grew up attending school in Sheridan, graduating with the Class of 1956. Right after graduation, Glen signed up to be a Marine. On April 4, 1959, he was united in marriage to Maria Consuelo Alvarez in Tijuana, Mexico. The couple moved to San Diego, California in 1963, and in 1969 they moved to Blockton, eventually settling in Lenox in 1971. Two daughters were born to bless their lives, Irma and Patti.

Glen worked at Totes for many years. He and Maria enjoyed traveling in their younger years to Mexico, San Diego and Europe. After Maria's death in 2011, Glen moved to Des Moines to be closer to his daughter Patti.

Left to cherish Glen's memory are his two daughters, Irma Jacobs and Art Porras of Merced, California; Patti Weaver and husband Delvin of Des Moines, Iowa; a son-in-law, Steven Jacobs of Paulden, Arizona; four brothers, Richard Jackson; Bill Jackson and wife Karen; Eldon Jackson and wife Marilyn; and Douglas Jackson and wife Wilma; two sisters, Lillie Scheller and Betty Mackie; four grandchildren, Eric French, David French, Michael Jacobs and Lori Jacobs; step-grandchildren, Nikki Norberg and Craig Weaver; fourteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Glen in death are his parents Orren and Abena Jackson; five brothers, James, Harry, Lawrence, Donald and Leroy; three sisters, Ella Mae, Mary Ann and Daisy; and his loving wife Marie in June of 2011

 

Jackson, Robert Dean - Funeral Services for Robert Jackson, will be held Friday, November 15, 2019 at 1:30 P.M. at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Interment will held in Hopkins Cemetery.

Robert Dean Jackson was born in a chicken house, in Taylor County, Iowa on August 10, 1939 to Robert Lee Jackson and Margaret Frances (Thomsen) Jackson. While growing up on the family farm as a child he attended Valley School through the 8th grade. Robert then attended Hopkins High School and graduated in 1957.

Robert married Elaine Grace on June 19, 1960. To this union two sons, Rod and Chad were born. Robert began farming after being married and never really did retire from it. In 1962 he began owning and training thoroughbred racehorses. He, Elaine and infant son Rod would go to various tracks in Nebraska for the race meets. In 1966 Robert bought his current farm and continued to train horses and farm. Robert also worked at Moog automotive where he retired from.

Robert had many interests throughout his years. He loved the outdoors, including fishing, hunting coon, deer and especially coyote. Robert loved to read any free minute he had. He also loved to play board games and card games with his family and friends. Robert had an ornery streak and enjoyed sneaking up on his family and friends to scare them. He was known best for being able to sleep and drive at the same time. Never a dull moment was had when Robert was around!

Preceding Robert in death were his parents; Robert and Margaret, wife; Elaine and sister Virginia Nelson.

Left to cherish Robert's memory are his sons Rod Jackson (Robin Ramsey) and Chad (Christie) Jackson, grandchildren; Logan Jackson, Lindsey Jackson, Amanda Ramsey-Rowen, Kylie Jackson, Ashlyn Jackson, Tyler Jackson, Cameron Hofmeister and Andrew Hofmeister; great-grandchildren, Austin Jackson and Sophia Ramsey; brother, Fred (Mary) Jackson, brother-in-law; Calvin Nelson, along with many other family members and friends

 

Johnson, Clinton Russell - Funeral services for Clint Johnson, 39, of Blockton, Iowa will be held Sunday, November 10, 2019 at 11 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 5 to 7 PM. Interment will be at Athelstan Cemetery.

Clinton Russell Johnson was born to Richard Carl Johnson and Alice Ann (Williams) Johnson on June 21, 1980 in Mount Ayr, Iowa and passed away on November 7, 2019 at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Clint was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman. He enjoyed walking the river and collecting rocks and riding his four wheeler. He enjoyed visiting with friends and family and was willing to help anyone in need no matter what time of day or night it was.

He was united in marriage to April Kay Reid on April 21, 2000. To this union three of his greatest loves were born: Dakota James, Colton Carl and Cassandra Marie. Even though the marriage ended, their friendship didn't.

Clint is proceeded in death by his paternal grandparents Carl Russell and Helen Thelma (Wake) Johnson, maternal grandparents George Asa Williams and Leona (Booher) Williams; uncles Dale Williams, Harold Williams, Joseph Everhart, Doyle Lawrence, Jim Lawrence, and Ivan Groff; aunt Judy Williams and cousin Brian Lawrence.

He survived by his parents, sister Cindy (David) Maxson, children Dakota (Allison), Colton (Rilee) and Cassie, granddaughter Elizabeth Nicole, nephews Shane (Amanda) and Stuart Maxson, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends

 

Johnston, Alice Mae Jones - Funeral services for Alice Mae Johnston will be held Monday, November 11, 2019, at 10:30 AM at First Christian Church in Mt. Ayr. Interment will be held in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Mt. Ayr. Visitation will be at Cummings Funeral Home in Bedford on Sunday, November 10 from 2-4 PM.

Alice Mae (Jones) Johnston, oldest child of Owen Zell and Bessie (Taylor) Jones, was born September 21,1925, in Diagonal, Iowa, and died peacefully at Clearview Nursing Home in Mt. Ayr on November 5, 2019, at the age of 94 years, one month and 15 days. Alice Mae attended country school and graduated from Diagonal High School in 1943. She attended AIB and worked at Younkers Tea Room after graduation.

On December 15, 1946, Alice Mae married William “Bill” Johnston at the Diagonal Methodist Church parsonage. A short time later, Bill and Alice Mae moved to Bedford, IA, where they put down roots and enjoyed 62 years of marriage before Bill’s death in July 2009.

Alice Mae was a member of United Christian-Presbyterian Church and faithfully served in many capacities while she was able to attend services in Bedford. She was a 73 year member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Order of Eastern Star and Rebekah’s Lodge. She was a member of the original zoning board in Bedford and served as apartment manager for the Bedford Community Housing Association for 10 years. Alice Mae worked at the Soil Conservation Office for 23 years and then resigned in 1980 to take on a new role as Bill’s “Gal Friday” in the Wm. E Johnston Insurance Agency. She looked forward to volunteering at the Taylor County Museum every week and enjoyed accompanying Bill to reunions with his WWII army buddies over a span of 24 years.

Failing health necessitated a move to Clearview Nursing Home in the spring of 2016, and she spent the last 3 1/2 years being lovingly cared for by the staff there.

Some of the things Alice Mae will be remembered for are her interest in genealogy, being an excellent cook, her devotion to Bill and her love for children. She loved her lifelong hometown of Bedford, her extended family, and she never missed a Taylor Reunion or Diagonal Alumni Banquet.

Preceding Alice Mae in death were her parents, Zell and Bessie (Jones) Perry, parents-in-law Horace and Martha Johnston, brother Jim Jones, brothers and sisters-in-law Bob and Floretta Johnston, Dick and Lou Johnston and Tim Johnston, nephews Billy Lee Johnston and Andy Johnston, and beloved great nieces, Jamie (Jones) Boos and Keely Rinehart.

Survivors include her brother Bob Jones (wife Margo), sisters-in-law Edna Jones and Alice Lucille Johnston.

Alice Mae will be missed by her many nieces and nephews, their extended families, and her loving cousins from the Taylor and Jones families. The Alan Ritchie family brightened the lives of Alice Mae and Bill when they moved to Dodge Street. Kirsten (Ritchie) and Bryan Hamilton’s family enriched her life beyond measure as she became “old,old grandma” to their children, Avery and Reid

 

King, Delbert - Delbert King was born December 6, 1933, in Taylor County, Iowa the son of Ross King and Caroline (Kendrick) King. He grew up in southern Adams County near the Brooks/Iveyville area, attending country school. Delbert met Kathy Resh at the Lenox skating rink in 1952. After a year of dating the couple were united in marriage on February 9, 1953 in Maryville, Missouri. In April of 1954, Delbert was sworn into the United States Marine Corps. Kathy lived with her folks until July when Delbert came home on leave. She returned to California with him and they were blessed with the birth of Rick at Camp Pendelton. When Rick was 6 weeks old, Delbert had to go over seas. Kathy and Rick returned home and they stayed with her folks until December of 1955, when Delbert came back from serving in Japan and Korea. The couple returned to San Francisco where Delbert was stationed at Treasure Island as an MP for the remainder of his enlistment. In April, Delbert was discharged from active duty and they returned to Iowa. In May of 1956, he started work at Steel Tanks in Clarinda until they closed in October of that year. He then did odd jobs for farmers until February of 1957, when he stared at Lisle Corporation, where worked until his retirement in 1996. Delbert also farmed part-time during the majority of the time he was employed at Lisle Corp. Three more children were born to bless their lives, Mick, Tom and Machelle.

Delbert was a loving and dedicated husband and father, who always had the best interests of Kathy and the kids foremost on his heart. The family enjoyed vacationing every year, usually hooking up with relatives in Colorado, but also traveled to Florida, Wyoming, Montana, California, South Dakota, Minnesota, Washington and Oregon. After his retirement, Delbert and Kathy enjoyed vacationing in Branson every year, also venturing towards Arizona and the Grand Canyon. Delbert enjoyed watching NASCAR, and the family has fond memories of attending the races at the Adams County Speedway on Saturday nights. Delbert enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping in his younger years.

Left to cherish Delbert’s memory are his children, Rick King of Clarinda, Iowa; Mick King and wife Dana of Prairie City, Iowa; Tom King and wife Jane of Creston, Iowa; and Machelle Mullen and husband Erik of Clarinda, Iowa; ten grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; along with many relatives and friends.

Preceding Delbert in death are his parents, Ross and Caroline King; his loving wife, Kathy King in June of 2019; a sister, Wilma Kester; four brothers, Wilbur King, Cleve King, Cliff King and Delmar King; and twin granddaughters, Jennifer and Cindy King, at infancy

 

Lemon, Margery Irene Ward Carruthers - Margery Irene Carruthers Lemon was born July 20, 1931 in Lenox, Iowa the daughter of Oscar Ward and Matilda (Stanger) Ward. She grew up attending school, graduating from Lenox High School with the Class of 1949. While she was in school, she worked part-time at Tyler Pharmacy and assisted Dessa Carruthers with bookkeeping. After graduation she continued to be the bookkeeper at Carruthers Plumbing & Heating . . . a position she held until her retirement in May of 2016. On September 29, 1950, she was united in marriage to Gerald Carruthers. The couple lived in Lenox and they were blessed with the birth of three children, Nancy, Barbara and Daniel.

Margery enjoyed raising her family and working side by side with her husband in their business. She was an active member of the Lenox Christian Church and enjoyed bowling on the Carruthers Bowling Team for many years. On July 4, 1984, her husband Gerald passed away. Margery continued working enjoying as much time as she could with her grandchildren. On January 23, 1993, she was united in marriage to Art Lemon in Des Moines, Iowa. The couple lived in Des Moines until they returned to Lenox in the early 2000's. On July 14, 2003, Art passed away.

Margery possessed a caring and giving heart. She always had time for a friend or family member to stop by for coffee and a cookie. She was a wonderful baker, specializing in pies and cookies. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy.

Left to cherish Margery’s memory are her three children, Nancy Steinick and husband Don of Ankeny, Iowa; Barbara Heckenberg and husband Terry of Pella, Iowa; and Dan Carruthers and wife Cindy of Lenox, Iowa; four grandchildren, Kristoffor Steinick and wife Kellie of Mingo, Iowa; Amanda McIntire and husband Floyd of Johnston, Iowa; Ryker Carruthers and wife Lindsey of Lenox, Iowa; and Brolin Carruthers of Maryville, Missouri; six great-grandchildren, Konnor, Zakary, Kayden, Keegan, Kalvin and Liam; a sister, Norma Flynn of Phoenix, Arizona; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Ward of Springfield, Missouri; along with many family members and friends.

Preceding Margery in death are her parents, Oscar and Matilda Ward; her first husband, Gerald Carruthers; her second husband, Art Lemon; and a brother Edward Ward.

North Fairview Cemetery, Lenox, Iowa

 

Lincoln, Kathleen Caroline Galusha -

Kathleen Caroline Lincoln, 91, of Bedford, IA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 27, 2019, at Azria Health in Clarinda, IA.

Kathleen was born on November 11, 1927 in Grand Island, NE, she had formerly lived in western Nebraska until 1961, then in Glenwood, IA until 1971, and then she moved to Bedford.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Marguerite (Lemke) Galusha, her husband, Ernest “Jack” Lincoln in 2011, they were married on March 1, 1950 in Alliance NE; her siblings Thelma Jean and husband, Hugh Hutchinson, and Earl George and wife, Linda Galusha; her infant sister, Gwendolyn; and her son in law, Thomas Drobny.

She is survived by her daughter, Sylvia Elizabeth Drobny, Hopkins, MO; 2 granddaughters, Frankie (Bryan) Titus, Hopkins, MO, and Kaitlin (Steve) Howdle, Sioux Falls, IA, and great granddaughters, Maulie and Mackenzie Titus, Hopkins, MO, and grandson, Landry Howdle; and several nieces and nephews. 

Kathleen Lincoln went by many names  and titles Teacher, wife, mom, Mrs. Lincoln, Aunt Kathleen, Grandma, and Sis. Kathleen took pride in the rolls she served as she was always willing to help. She was resourceful and a true self starter having grown up in Western Nebraska during the 1930s and 40s. 

Kathleen graduated early from Alliance High School, Alliance NE in the Spring of 1945 and that fall started teaching country school. She attended Chadran State Teachers College and continued at Dana College, Blair NE. Kathleen graduating with a Bachelors in Education in 1970. 
 
Kathleen taught school for 47 years, and in those 47 years she got married, raised a family and was always a constant care giver. In addition to teaching Kathleen enjoyed gardening, cooking, long car rides in the summer and having just a taste of "your" ice cream from the Frosty. 
 
Mrs. Lincoln’s body has been cremated under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.
 

Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 2, 2019, at the Wray Memorial United Methodist Church, Hopkins, MO.  The burial will be at a later date

 

Marshall, Michael Gene - Michael Gene Marshall was born October 4, 1963 in Belvidere, Illinois the son of Leonard Marshall and Patricia (Bender) Marshall. He grew up around Corning, where all of his sisters graduated then the family moved to rural Lenox. He graduated from Lenox High School with the Class of 1982. After graduation he began working for area farmers. He was united in Marriage and was blessed with two children, Jamie and John. The couple later divorced. Mike was united in marriage to Becky Dowdell on October 2, 1999, uniting her children Kaseie, Bridget and Michael to the family.

Mike went to work for Jordan & Sons doing tiling work for farm drainage, a position he held for over 15 years. Mike was an avid deer hunter, he loved the Green Bay Packers, he was a master of all trades helping anyone out and would build just about anything his kids could dream up, but most of all he loved spoiling his grandchildren.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend are his loving wife Becky Marshall of Lenox, Iowa; his 5 children Jamie Marshall and fiancé Chris Brokaw of Lenox, Iowa; John Marshall and fiancé Nick Uglem of Fargo, North Dakota; Kaseie Mitchell and husband Brad of North Liberty, Iowa; Bridget Dowdell of North Liberty, Iowa; and Michael Dowdell and fiancé Justice Belt of Omaha, Nebraska; 7 grandchildren, Riley, Carson, Piper, Morgan, Jaxson, Everly and Kohen; three sisters, Patricia Marshall, Joan Lenz and Deborah Duncan; three brothers, Robert Marshall, David Marshall and Richard Marshall; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Mike in death are his parents, Gene and Patty Marshall; his nephew, Clint Marshall; and his brother-in-law, Gary Duncan

 

Mauderly, Carolyn Kay Young - A Memorial Service for Carolyn Kay Mauderly is scheduled for Saturday, December 21, with visitation at 10 AM, followed by the memorial service at 11 AM at Cummings Family Funeral Home, with a reception to follow at New Life Missionary Church in Bedford. Jeff Cummings will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Carolyn’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Diabetes Association (7285 W 132nd St. #160, Overland Park, Kansas 66213) or www.diabetes.org

“Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.”

Carolyn Kay Mauderly passed away on Thursday, December 12, 2019 in St. Joseph, Missouri at 72 years of age.

Carolyn Kay (Young) Mauderly was born in Creston, Iowa to George and Nina Young on November 14, 1947. She graduated from Lenox High School in 1966 and completed her nursing degree at Iowa Western Community College. While attending school she met Jerry Mauderly, whom she married in 1967. Carolyn and Jerry long called an acreage just outside of Bedford home, where she spent many days working in the garden, cooking hearty meals and happily visiting with friends and family. The couple raised two children, Douglas and Sarah.

Carolyn enjoyed camping, baking, sharing recipes, square dancing, playing cards, and being a grandmother. She was an active, dedicated member of her church and community and loved by many.

Carolyn is survived by Jerry, her husband of 52 years and their children: Douglas Mauderly of Bedford and Sarah (Michael) Popelka, of Seattle, Washington; her brother and two sisters: Ron (Barbara) Young of Davenport, Linda (John) Weeber of Lenox, and Lois Thompson of Shenandoah; her grandchildren Claire and Sam Popelka of Seattle; and countless loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends from far and wide

 

Mauderly, Delbert Glee -

Delbert Glee Mauderly, son of Glee and Abby (Belding) Mauderly, was born on August 17th, 1933 at home on a farm near Gus, Iowa.  He passed away peacefully at his home near Morton Mills on October 14th, 2019 at the age of 86

Delbert’s family moved to a farm near Grant, Iowa in 1943 at the age of 10 where he began his love for farming.  This farm is still part of a four-generation family farm that continues today through his son and grandson. 

Delbert was united in marriage to Lila Minge on July 25, 1953.  To this union, five children were born.  Delbert and Lila resided in the Morton Mills area for sixty years, farming and raising their family.  He took great pride in his farming, raising cattle, hogs, beans and corn where his greatest love was his family, animals, and farming.  In his later years, he enjoyed watching westerns, working puzzles, staying on top of the daily farm activities, and visits from his family and friends.  He lived a simple, yet meaningful life and will be greatly missed by those he left behind. 

Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, Glee and Abby Mauderly; in-laws, Ed and Hilda Minge; brother-in-law, Claude Smith; and a special cousin, Leora Riggs. 

He is survived by his wife, Lila, of sixty-six years; sisters Naomi (Wes) Wimmer of Washington, MO., and Dorothy Smith of Grinnell, IA.; brother-in-law, Edward (Monica) Minge of Bellevue, NE.; special cousin, Bill Riggs of Mission, TX.;  children Connie (Ralph) Phillip of Kerens, TX., Carla Wilson of Cameron, MO., Cindy (Robert) Whaley of Villisca, IA., Coral (Daniel) Chipman of Atlantic, IA., and Cody (Aimee) Mauderly of Villisca, IA.  He is also survived by eighteen grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and cousins

 

Melvin, Orville Eugene Sr -

Orville Eugene Melvin, Sr., 91, of Liberty, MO, and formerly of Blockton, IA, peacefully entered into rest on September 11, 2019, with his wife of 70 years at his side. Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm, followed by a service celebrating Orville's life at 3:00 pm, on Saturday, September 21, 2019, at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, I-35 at State Route 291, Liberty, Missouri. Burial at a later date at Hopkins Cemetery in Hopkins, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Liberty Baptist Church, 1000 Birmingham Road, Liberty, MO 64068, or, Taylor County Historical Museum, c/o Donna Smithson, 301 West Ohio Street, Lenox, IA 50851.

Orville was born April 2, 1928, in Taylor County, IA, the eldest of six children of James Woodford and Inez Ruth (Booze) Melvin. He grew up on a farm near Hopkins, MO, where he attended Plum Grove School and graduated from Hopkins High School. Orville was united in marriage to Mary Louise Goodrich on July 3, 1949, on her family's farm in Grundy County, MO, near Trenton. They soon moved to Blockton, IA, where Orville operated Melvin Hardware, Plumbing and Heating from 1957 until 1993 when he retired. Orville and Mary moved to Liberty in 2002 to live near family. They were members of Liberty Baptist Church.

Along with his parents, Orville was preceded in death by two siblings, Bill Melvin and Phyllis Ulmer. Survivors include his wife, Mary; children, Nancy Nappi (Victor), Gene Melvin (Lisa), Steve Melvin (Janis), Richard Melvin, Annette Tracy (Matt) and Tim Melvin (Tracy); sisters, Evelyn Watts, Helen Marriott and Norma Wuester; as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews

 

Miller, Alan Paul - Memorial Celebration of Life Services for Alan Paul Miller, age 64, of Lenox, who passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2020 will be held Saturday, January 4, 2020 at 10:30 AM at the Lenox Community Center. Visitation will be held Saturday beginning at 9:30 AM until 10:15 AM at the Lenox Community Center. Memorials be directed to the Lenox Fire Department or Community Adult Residential Environment. Memories may be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox where we 'Celebrate Life'.

Alan Paul Miller was born on November 16, 1955, the youngest of seven children born to Joseph Eugene Miller and Rose Catherine (Novak) Miller. Cancer robbed Alan of his life on January 1, 2020, at the age of 64 years, 1 month and 16 days.

Alan was raised on a farm southwest of Lenox. His morning were spent milking the family herd of Holsteins before hopping the bus to school. This was a chore he swore he would never repeat in his adult years. If he had spare time, it was spent running the country side on his Honda Trail 70 with the neighborhood boys, trapping, hunting and fishing. These were past times that he carried on throughout his life. Alan also had an affinity for four wheels as well as two! He started learning the auto body trade in high school from Richard Freshour. After honing his skills in Des Moines at AMC & Jeep, Alan returned to Lenox in 1977, where he worked for Don's Body Shop for the next 42 years. He was also dedicated to the Lenox Fire Department, working up to Assistant Chief, serving for 28 years.

In 1976, Alan was united in marriage to Deborah Lynn Haynes. To this union was born Kristen Renee in 1978, Jaclyn Leigh in 1980, and Kurt Alan in 1984. They lived their entire life on East Kansas Street in Lenox along with the many neighborhood kids as part of their family. Alan was a caring and patient father and wonderful grandfather to Taylor, Kason, Wesley and Bobby J.

Alan was a quiet man who had a knack for grabbing laughs with his dry sense of humor. He worked hard, but always put his family and friends first. As an adult, Alan continued to fill his free time with hunting, fishing and camping along the Platte River. He never hesitated to bring along his children, grandchildren or friends to pass along his skills and swap stories around the campfire. He loved to refinish furniture and had restored many beautiful pieces of furniture and guns.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Debbie Miller; children Kristen, Jaclyn (Bryan) and Kurt; four grandchildren, Taylor, Kason, Wesley and Bobby; siblings, Cathy (Howard) Yarnell, Frances Young, Margaret (Patric) Murphy, Nancy (Rick) Long and David (Rita) Miller. His father and mother-in-law, Fred and Joyce Haynes; and sister and brothers-in-law, Jeannie (Paul) Shipman, Kathi (Craig) Braby; Mark (Tammy) Haynes, Laurie (Nick) Evans and Matt (Margaret) Haynes; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and many friends.

Preceding Alan in death are his parents, Joseph Eugene and Rose Catherine Miller; a brother, Stephen Eugene Miller and two nieces, Julie A. Young and Courtni Shipman Jensen

 

Neibling, Helen "Irene" Johnson -

Helen “Irene” Neibling, age 90, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2020, at Maple Heights in Hiawatha, Kansas.

She was born to Leroy and Mary (Melvin) Johnson at the family farm home near Gravity, Iowa, on April 24, 1929. After graduating from Gravity High School in 1948, Irene completed one year of nursing school in St. Joseph, Missouri. While she was working at Missouri Methodist Hospital, one of her patients, Marjorie Neibling, introduced Irene to Charles, her son.  Charles and Irene were married on September 18, 1949, at the Gravity Christian Church. They lived and farmed near Highland, Kansas. They were blessed with three sons. Irene liked growing flowers and reading, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and using her gift of hospitality. In 1972, she placed her trust in Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. She served as a Bible study leader, Sunday school superintendent and teacher, and Women's Council president at Highland United Methodist-Presbyterian Church. Irene also volunteered at the local food pantry and the Iowa, Sac and Fox Mission Museum. 

Charles and Irene moved to Highland in 1994. They celebrated 55 years of marriage before Charles passed away in July, 2005. Irene was also preceded in death by her parents, sister Clara Tribolet, and brothers Ivan and Brice Johnson.

She is survived by her sons and their wives, Ed and Judy Neibling, Orlando, Florida; David and Margo Neibling, Cottage Grove, Minnesota; and Raymond and Jeanette Neibling, Highland; nine grandchildren and three great-granddaughters; brothers and their wives,  Edward and Millie Johnson, Gravity; and Russel and Shirley Johnson, Stephenville, Texas; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Harvey and Mary Ellen Neibling, Highland; Lorraine Neibling, Sabetha, Kansas; and Jerry and Carol Neibling,  Highland; plus many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Irene’s life is planned for 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland, Kansas with Tony French officiating. Interment will follow at the Highland Cemetery.

 

Odle, Ollie, Sr - Ollie Odle, Sr., was born March 16, 1925, in Kansas City, Kansas the son of Ollie B. Odle and Fannie Lee (Bryant) Odle. He grew up attending school, graduating from Argentine High School with the Class of 1943. Ten days later he was inducted into the United States Navy, serving during World War II in the South Pacific. On November 24, 1945, he was united in marriage to Altha Webb in Kansas City, Kansas. To this loving union, three children were born, Terry Lee, Ollie Jr., and Kathie Lynn.

The couple made their home in Kansas City where Ollie worked for The Gas Service Company for ten years, prior to going into the seminary. His first church was in Barnard, Kansas, where they served six years. Then they went to El Dorado, Kansas, and in 1966, they were called to serve the First Baptist Church in Bedford, Iowa. They faithfully served this church for over ten years. They moved to Junction City, Kansas to serve a church there, retiring in 1987. During this time he also earned his Masters of Religion. The couple moved to Grove, Oklahoma and made their home for over nineteen years. At this time he became Chaplin of the Civil Air Patrol, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel of Grove Squadron.

Ollie also held a private pilot license and loved to fly, but his real passion was being an Evangelistic Pastor, winning people into a 'saving knowledge of Jesus Christ'. After retiring from the ministry, he and Altha directed many tours with Nawas International Travel, where they visited over 26 countries. They loved to travel and sharing time with people. The couple returned to Bedford in 2006. Ollie also served as an Interim Pastor in several churches throughout the last 30 years of 'retirement'! Ollie was able to serve The Faith Baptist Church in Bedford for his last interim assignment. He was a life-time member of the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 of Bedford, Iowa. The last few months of this life, he lived at Nodaway Nursing Home in Maryville, Missouri and preached there many Sundays while he was able. He loved everyone, and was lovingly cared for. He felt their devotion and deep love in return.

Left cherish Ollie’s memory are three children, Terry Odle (Trudy) of Overland Park, Kansas; Ollie Odle, Jr., of Port Isabel, Texas; Kathie Anderson (Mike) of Blockton, Iowa; six granddaughters, Brandi and Kevin Chambers; Tera and Matt Schlotfelt; Amber and Bill Ruttenberg Jessi and George Nixon; Carmalene and Sean Gallagher; Cherokee Odle; eleven great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Taylor, Sarah, Alexis, Banner, Lenni, Riggs, Crimson, Cadibelle and twin boys nicknamed Pancho & Lefty; two great-great-grandchildren, Seeley and Melody Mae; Ollie had a special love for Terry Rae Mogler and Cathy Cochran; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Ollie in death are his parents, Ollie and Fannie Odle; his loving wife, Altha Odle in September of 2017; siblings, Edison Odle, Irene Rose, Lorene Lightfoot and Ruby Neece

 

Pace, Coryl Hatfield - Private Family Graveside Memorial Service for Coryl Pace, age 90, will be held at a later date. Cummings Family Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements for Mrs. Pace.

Coryl was born April 29, 1929 in rural Taylor County, Iowa to Minnie (Bissell) Hatfield and Robert Hatfield. She was one of 11 children. Coryl grew up in Bedford, attended and graduated from Bedford High School. After high school, she taught country school for one year (which she didn't like.)

Coryl was married to Wayne William Pace on April 11, 1947 in Glenwood, Iowa. Coryl and Wayne had three children: Barbara Kay, Carole Ann and Robert Wayne.

Coryl was a stay at home mom for many years. Then she was a cook at the Bedford Schools. However, Coryl was most remembered for the 40 years she spent as head Librarian at the Bedford Public Library. She had worked at the library for many more years as a helper in high school and then as the Substitute Librarian before she took over the full time job as head Librarian. She often said that she never missed the work of the library but she really did miss the people.

Coryl was fantastic at embroidering. In her earlier years, she made pillow cases, tablecloths and dish towels. In her later years, she loved to embroider baby quilts saying it was her "sanity keeper." And of course, she loved to read books. When she got a Kindle for Christmas, her only problem with it was she couldn't skip to the end and read what happened. She had to read the whole book.

Coryl was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Pace; daughter, Barbara Gordon; great-granddaughter, Kendall Bucher; her parents and all 10 of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughter Carole (Lynn) Haidsiak; her son, Bob Pace; granddaughters, Jennifer (Michael) Ware; Cara (Mark) Hollingworth; and Pamela (Nathan) Bucher, and six great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Hollis Ware; Adrian and Aleighla Hollingworth; and Zoe and Jordyn Bucher, along with a host of other relatives and friends

 

Pester, Tammy Sue Glass -

Tammy Pester passed away on September 1, 2019, at the age of 51.  Tammy Sue Pester, daughter of John and Norma Glass was born in 1968 in Corydon, Iowa.  She spent her childhood years on a farm in Taylor County Iowa, graduating from Bedford Community High School.  She moved to Lincoln Nebraska where she graduated from Lincoln School of Commerce in 1988.  Tammy worked at KPMG, LLP, Rediger & Company, all of Lincoln, Nebraska and the American Exchange Bank in Elmwood, Nebraska.   She was united in marriage to Dale Pester on May 15, 1999.  Tammy and Dale settled on an acreage in Otoe County in 2001.  Tammy spent much of her free time crocheting, knitting, sewing, quilting, reading, and baking.  Her passion was numbers and calculations and attended Crossroads Bible Church, in Manley, Nebraska. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband Dale Pester, parents John and Norma Glass of Lenox, Iowa.  Mother-in -law, Lee Etta Pester of Beatrice, Nebraska. Grandmother, Betty Glass of Bedford, Iowa

Brother, Tony and sister-in-law April Glass and children Tyler, Taylor and Madison of Altoona, Iowa.  Sister, Teresa Gustafson and brother-in-law Jeff Gustafson and children Hannah, Chloe, Noah and Phoebe of Clarinda, Iowa.   Step-brother, Mike Glass of Brookfield, Missouri and daughter Alaina of Brookfield, Missouri,  Step-sister, Cathy Meek and daughters Kendra and Ashley of Aurora, Missouri.  Brother-in-law, Dean Pester and sister-in-law Michelle Pester and children Tyler and Haylee of Cortland, Nebraska.   Brother-in-law, Harold Pester and sister-in-law Beth Pester and children Tara and Tim of Seward, Nebraska. Plus many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Tammy was preceded in death by her grandparents Leola and Howard Rickert; her grandfather Henry Glass and great-grandmother Zoe Woodward; father-in-law Keith Pester; and her Aunt Debbie Markham.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, September 5, 2019, from 9-9 and with the family present 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Butherus, Maser and Love Funeral Home in Lincoln, Nebraska. The service will be held at the Butherus, Maser and Love Funeral Home on September 6, 2019 at 1:30pm, with burial to follow at the Rosewood Cemetery in Palmyra, Nebraska.   Family request that in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to the American Cancer Society

 

Poore, Deborah "Debbie" Kay Rowe - Debbie Poore, age 66, of Clarinda, Iowa entered into peace Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska. Funeral Celebration of Life Services will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 31, 2019 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Interment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.

Debbie Kay (Rowe) Poore was born October 18, 1952 to Wilbur and Patsy (Brown) Rowe in Maryville, Missouri. She was the oldest of five children. She grew up in Taylor County and graduated from Bedford High School in 1970 and from Cosmetology School in 1971.

Debbie Rowe and Roger Poore were united in marriage April 27, 1972. They were blessed with two children, Michelle Shepard and Christina Landess.

Debbie started her career as a beautician in 1971 at Dorothy’s Beauty Shop in Clarinda until she opened her own famous little shop “Deb-N-Hair”. Deb-N-Hair was just a physical location; her shop was wherever she was. Deb always had a comb and scissors in her purse. It would not be unusual to pull in to a campground and see Deb cutting hair. She would say “just sit on that cooler”.

Debbie had a great sense of humor and loved life. Her laugh was contagious, many times making her the life of the party. Debbie’s first love and passion has always been her family. Deb shared her love of shopping with her daughter Christina and granddaughters Jordan and Torie. They would spend the day shopping at J.C. Penney’s and Kohl’s then hurry home to hide the bags from Roger.

Debbie’s two favorite seasons were camping and Christmas. Camping season would show off Deb’s directing skills, as she could direct Roger into the best spot in the camp ground. Christmas would highlight her get it done attitude as would not stop until everyone’s wish list was wrapped under the tree.

In Debbie’s early days, she loved horse back riding and was involved with the Bedford Saddle Club. She grew up with horses on the family farm and enjoyed riding with her siblings and friends. Deb was also a Bedford Bulldog cheerleader and always willing to show her pride singing the Bedford fight song.

Preceding Debbie in death were her mother, Patsy Rowe; brother-in-law, Steve Pfander; nephew, Chance Bane; niece, Heather Bane; sisters-in-law, Dora Prather and Sara Robinson; brothers-in-law, Jim Poore and Steve Poore; grandparents, Homer and Vera Brown and Oakley and Anna Rowe; mother-in-law, Yvone Robinson and father-in-law, Ward Poore.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband and best friend, Roger Poore of Clarinda; children, Christina Landess and husband Jason of Clarinda, Iowa; Michelle Shepard and husband Mike of McKinney, Texas; grandchildren, Torie Miers, Jordan Landess (Dakota), Jaydan Landess, Jaron Landess, Torenton Shepard, Tinley Shepard; great grandson, Koven Ray; father, Wilbur Rowe of Bedford, Iowa; brothers, Dean Rowe and wife Sue of Bedford and Jim Rowe and wife Julie of Bedford; sisters, Donna Bane and husband Ron of Lorimar, Iowa, Vickie Backhus of Colorado; many nieces and nephews and many friends

 

Rybolt, Paul - 24 Jun 1949 - 29 Feb 2020

 

Sanders, Galen Gene - Funeral Services for Galen Sanders, age 67, who passed away January 3, 2020 will be held Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 11 AM at Cummings Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 8, 2020 from 5-7 PM at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Platteville Cemetery.

Galen Gene Sanders was born February 20, 1952 in Redding, IA to William L. and Deloris (Matheny) Sanders. Galen attended school in Quitman and Maryville, MO. Galen had 5 children Jason Lynn, Shannon Gene, Waylon Lee, Nichalos Gene, and Annie Jean.
Throughout Galen’s life he worked as a carpenter, a laborer for the secondary road crew for Nodaway and Taylor counties, a mechanic, and various other jobs throughout the community. He enjoyed working outside, riding around town, and spending time with family and friends.

Galen was preceded in death by his parents, William and Deloris Sanders. Left to cherish his memories is his children Jason (Erin) Sanders of Clarinda, IA, Shannon (Tracy) Ebrecht, Nick (Rebecca) Ebrecht of Bedford, IA, Waylon (Lisa) Sanders of Maryville, MO, and Annie (Dustin) Carpenter of Tarkio, MO. 16 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Sisters Rita (Steve) Richard of Denison, TX, Linda Scott of Bolckow, MO and Marilyn (Ron) Scholtz of Kingston, OK. Brothers Marvin (Linda) Sanders, Wayland (Shirley) Sanders of Quitman, MO and Richard (Tammie) Sanders of Skidmore, MO. Several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews

 

Scanlan, Norma Jean Shrimpton - Norma Jean Scanlan was born November 26th, 1930 in New Market, Taylor County Iowa; to Roswell Ralph Shrimpton and Martha Ann (Rhoades) Shrimpton. She grew up In Villisca and graduated from high school there in 1949. On September 2, 1949 she married Joseph Donald Scanlan. This union was blessed with two children Sheri Jo and Steven Allan.

She worked in Corning in various jobs until 1958 when the family moved to a small farm north of Nodaway which remained her home until her health required her to move to the Good Samaritan Care Center in Villisca. While at the farm, she worked for several years at the Nodaway Junior High School and then finished her professional career retiring from the National Farmers Organization when it moved from Corning to Des Moines. She was a good farm partner helping Don raise crops, cattle and hogs and continuously painting anything that was not moving on the farm. She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Villisca for many years.

She was a proud supporter of Villisca academics and athletics supporting the efforts of her daughter and son, seldom missing one of their events.

As the zest for choring and harvesting began to wane, She and Don could be seen at the Nodaway Community Center or the Villisca VFW assisting and playing with their bingo friends. An occasional trip to the Casinos in Council Bluffs would usually end with a success story about penny machines. As her health began to fail, she spent her last 7 years at Good Samaritan, 2 1/2 of those years with her constant companion, husband Don. During her time at Good Samaritan, she received the special care and friendship that is part of life for those lucky enough to be living in a small Iowa farm community.

Norma entered into rest on February 3, 2020 at the age of 89. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Don, parents; brother Ross, brother Leo, and sister Lois Gatewood.

Cherishing her memory are children, Sheri (Scott) Siebrass of Springfield Nebraska, Steven (Susan) Scanlan of Omaha, Nebraska, grand children Staci (Brandon) Cohn of Lincoln, Nebraska, Shannon (Alan) Rogers of Peyton Colorado, Tabitha Siebrass of Lincoln and Vanessa Siebrass of Omaha, and 6 great grandchildren; sister Pat Warnaka of Omaha along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Cards and remembrances to Steven Scanlan 7609 North 124th Street Omaha, NE 68142

 

Scott, Nellie Francis Sparks - Nellie Francis Scott in the company of her loving family peacefully left this life November 5, 2019. A visitation and funeral service will be held Saturday November 9, 10:00 am at the Cummings Funeral Home, Bedford Iowa. The graveside service will immediately follow at Washington Township Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Friends and family will gather after at the Gravity Community Center to celebrate her life.

Nellie was born November 4, 1932 to Grover and Myrtle Sparks and spent her childhood in the Bedford area. She played the drums and violin in her school band. She married Donald Walter Scott on her graduation day and started their family on their farm near Sharpsburg, Iowa. They co-owned and operated the Scott Brother’s Feed and Grain elevator in Sharpsburg.

Nellie was an excellent seamstress, she made many clothes for her children and grand children, including beautiful wedding and prom dresses. She is remembered for making an incredible roast and homemade pizza. Pizza night was spent with the Beck Family. Other fond memories were the Sunday morning family breakfasts at their house. Nellie enjoyed camping and traveling. One of her favorite destinations was Yellowstone, where she fed the bears through the car window. She was an avid card player and enjoyed square dancing. Don and Nellie spent many winters in Alamo Texas, with friends and family.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Helen Francis Ambrose and husband Charles, Ellen Susan Lee, and Janet Marie Tiefenthaler and husband Gary, and daughter-in-law Kathy Scott. Nellie has 10 grandchildren: Angela, Dawn, Larry, Nicole, Deanne, Joshua, Jeremiah, Jennifer, Matthew and Jason. She has 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Jack, Eldon, Virgil, Ivan (Sparks), Ruth Rukkie, Ruby Detty, and Darlene Beck, her son Donald Walter Scott Jr., grandson Donald Walter Scott III, and son-in-law, Larry Lee

 

Smith, Alvin J. -

Alvin J. Smith, 76 of Anita, Iowa formerly of Council Bluffs, Iowa and Hastings, Iowa passed away November 5, 2019 at the Caring Acres in Anita. He was born April 3, 1943 in College Springs, Iowa to Walter Alvin and Esther Viola (McGuire) Smith.

Alvin grew up in Southwest Iowa, spending most of his youth and young adult life in and around the Bedford area. Alvin was a farmer at various times, raised livestock and was an auctioneer. He was a man “always on the go” and had many irons in the fire at any one time.

Later in life, he moved to Council Bluffs, Iowa and worked in the maintenance department for Con Agra Foods for many years. He bought his acreage in Strahan, Iowa during that time and enjoyed the best years of his life there.

Survivors include his daughter Jennifer Smith of Kansas, City, Missouri; sister, Barbara Petersen of Council Bluffs, Iowa; brothers, Calvin (Trina) Smith of Plainview, Texas; Glenn (Peggy) Smith of Council Bluffs, Iowa; J.C. (Peggy) Smith of Atlantic, Iowa.

In addition to his daughter and siblings, he is survived by 2 grandsons and a granddaughter of his longtime friend Linda, whom he thought of as his own.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, Walter A. & Esther V. Smith and sister, Janet E. Harrison.

No services are planned.  Private interment, Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa

Peterson Mortuary, Glenwood, Iowa

 

Smith, Diana May Hill - Memorial Services for Diana Smith will be held Saturday, March 21, 2020 at 10:30 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to the family to be established. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummingsfamilyfuneralhome.com under Obituaries.

Diana May (Hill) Smith, age 61, of Bedford, Iowa was born June 15, 1958 to Fird Douglas Hill and Anna Lee (Brandkamp) Hill. Diana married Rodney Paul Smith of Grand River, Iowa on July 23, 1978. To this blessed union two children were born, Leana Marie of Lenox, Iowa and Chad Douglas of Clarinda, Iowa.

The family made their home in Kellerton, Iowa, Coin, Iowa and Bedford, Iowa. Diana was employed as a caregiver at Imagine The Possibilities in Corning, Iowa for the last 16 years and was a non-paid caregiver her whole life to her family.

Diana's favorite things to do were taking her granddaughters shopping, reading romance novels, doing puzzle activity books, watching General Hospital, eating at Mexican Restaurants for family get-togethers, going to garage sales and cooking spaghetti or steak dinners with Rod.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Fird and Anna Hill; and one niece, Deanna Rae Hill.

Diana is survived by her husband, Rod; daughter Leana; son Chad (Katherine); granddaughters, Ashlyn, Briley, Zariah and Natalie; brothers, Lewis (Sharon) Hill of Mountain Home AR, Firdie (Shelda) Hill of Leon, IA, Doug (Donna) Hill of Leon, IA; sisters Linda (Francis) Fry of Colfax, IL, Kay (Linn) Armstrong of Halfway, MO, five nieces and nephews along with many other cousins, family and friends

 

Smithson, Donna Rae Cordell - Donna Rae (Cordell) Smithson daughter of Carl H. and Nettie Cordell of Bedford, Iowa, was born August 27, 1938, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. She was welcomed home by older brother LaVerne (Butch) and sister Peggy. Brothers Larry Lee joined the family October 16, 1943, and John Franklin on December 7, 1946.
Donna attended country school Kindergarten through 8th grade, High School in Sharpsburg and college in Springfield, MO. Her Master's degree in education was received from Northwest Missouri State in Maryville, Mo. Donna taught school in Sharpsburg, Prairie City, Exira and Barnum prior to moving into educational activities with the AEA.
Donna was married to William Smithson in 1962. A son, William Charles was born August 8, 1966. They were later divorced.
The Iowa Community Theatre Association was a favorite volunteer activity for a number of years. She served as President of the organization; then secretary/treasurer. Special training was taken in order that she could review productions to select requested individuals for special awards. Too many productions were reviewed to list; this was a special passion of hers.
Donna spent 24 years as President of the Lenox American Legion Auxiliary Parkinson Unit #250. Hosting the Red Cross Blood Mobile was a special project undertaken which she thoroughly enjoyed. Over the years she donated 129 units of blood. Units projects she supported includes sending letters to area farmers at planting and harvest time letting them know we were praying for them to have a safe season. Also, letters were sent to new parents to encourage reading to their child and a book was enclosed. At summer American Legion Family conference Department presented 14 special awards to 7th District with 10 of them going to the Lenox Unit. This was due to Donna's leadership and dedication.
Donna also has served as President of The Taylor County American Legion Family. In addition to this responsibility many one-day bus tours were planned to visit places such as the Iowa Veterans Home, Offutt Air Base Museum, and the Convent outside Maryville, MO. This was a joy to all County Veterans.
Involvement in the 7th District of The American Legion Family includes being Secretary/Treasurer. Minutes were recorded for all meetings, bills were paid and membership dues collected from 13 counties in 7th district.
Another passion of Donna is the Taylor County Historical Society Museum. Activities with which she was involved include: making books with copies of obituaries from all Taylor County deaths, making cemetery books which list all names on grave stones, writing articles for the local newspaper, and helping set up school days for children to visit. The holiday Tinsel Tree Lane was organized and set up, Nativity Scenes in appropriate places along with many other beautiful Christmas decorations.
Donna organized a singing group which travel the area to meals sites, nursing homes, and assisted living centers. She volunteered hours at the Lenox Neighborhood Center, Lenox Library, Lenox Care Center, Vintage Park Assisted Living and other areas when asked. She will be greatly missed in Taylor County.
Donna is survived by son, Charlie, Grandson Evan, Sister Peggy Brown, brother Larry Cordell, 12 nieces & nephews, numerous cousins and many, many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl & Nettie Cordell, older brother LaVerne and younger brother John

 

Thompson, Roger Lee - Memorial Celebration of Life Services for Roger Thompson, age 83, of formerly of Lenox, who passed away Sunday, September 22, 2019 in Greenwood, Indiana will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the East Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Roger Lee Thompson was born December 1, 1935 in Wall, South Dakota to the late George and Pearl Thompson. Roger’s brothers, Vernal and Dennis welcomed him into the world and in 1937 Loretta “Lori” joined the happy family.

In 1941, the family moved to California for six months. Roger remembered the long journey well, especially the trip through the mountains. With food packed for the long drive, including meat and bacon, the Lord protected the family from hungry bears and other wild animals. The kids slept in a tent while the parents made due in the family’s old truck.

At the beginning of WWII, the family moved to Lenox, Iowa. Roger graduated from Lenox High School in 1955. He loved all sports and in high school lettered in football, basketball, track and field and baseball. While still in high school, Roger took flying lessons from a family friend, Doc Bubb. His love of flying continued throughout his life. The family were members of the Lenox Christian Church. Roger remembered the delicious food served at church potlucks (pitch-ins).

In the fall of 1955, Roger attended Northwest Missouri State College. After attending NMSC for two years, he was drafted. Roger was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, where he served in the burn unit while stationed at Fort Sam Houston.

In 1960, he met his wife Lilly Lykkegaard. They were married August 20, 1961. The following year their daughter, Vicki, was born August 26, 1962 in Waterloo, Iowa. Another daughter, LeAnne, arrived May 12, 1968, on Mother’s Day in Davenport, Iowa. Holly was born January 5, 1970 in Chicago.
Roger was employed by the Massengill Pharmaceutical Company and later in 1964 with CIBA Pharmaceutical Company. In 1977, Roger changed careers and became the VP of commercial sales for Taylor Insulation Company. In 1990, he returned to the medical field to start up Flexion Technology with partner, Pat Moffitt.

In 1962, Roger joined the Davenport Cordbusters and immediately became a devoted member. The 100 strong men’s chorus that not only performed in Davenport but competed in international competitions as well, coming in 3rd in Atlanta and 2nd in New Orleans.

The family were members of St. John’s UMC in Davenport and then transferred their membership to Riverside UMC in Moline, IL. Roger served on the Finance and Staff Parish committees and as President of Methodist Men. He and Lilly joined Habitat through Riverside UCM to help build homes in Upper Michigan which was a very rewarding experience.

At 62, Roger retired as a result of Parkinson’s disease that had become a health problem. The family made the final move to Greenwood, IN to be near their daughter and her family when help would be needed. They found their second loving home at Mt Auburn UMC and became members in 2012.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 58 years, Lilly Thompson; daughters: Vicki Riley (Keith) of Greenwood, LeAnne Heimann (Gordon) of Clermont, FL and Holly Carlson of Dallas, GA; grandchildren: Megan Riley, Kevin Riley, Nicole Brown, Kyle Carlson, Cody Carlson, Hope Carlson, Nicole Morris, Mitchell Morris and Wendi Thompson; 6 great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members and dear friends

 

Titus, Walter - Walter, or Walt, as he was known by to friends, was born on August 30, 1932 near Rulo, Nebraska. He was the fourth child, but first son, born to Charles Edward Titus and Vera Sarah (Kermoade) Titus. He was one of 12 siblings. He passed away March 23, 2019.

Walt entered the Army December of 1952 getting his training as a corpsman. After the Army he met and married his wife of almost 54 years, Marilyn Lois (Aubert) Titus. Walt lost his wife on May 2, 2009.

They started their married life in Anita. Later moving to Kirkman. In 1964 they moved to the New Market area, living there for 2 years then moving to Sharpsburg area for 7 years. They bought a farm north of Gravity, which they sold when offered a good price, and bought the house in Gravity where they lived from 1977.

He had a lot of different occupations over the years. From farmer, filling station manager, janitor, maintenance helper and much more. His favorite being herdsman. He retired from Michael Foods at Lenox, Iowa at the age of 74. He was a city councilman, then the mayor of Gravity for several years. He was a member of the American Legion for 38 years. He was proud of being a volunteer fireman for 58 years.

He was predeceased by his parents Charles and Vera Titus, his wife Marilyn (Aubert) Titus, a baby daughter, his sisters, Lorrain Moore and Edith Uhlmann.

He is survived by his daughters Sara (Hugh) Babcock of Waterloo, Ia, Georgia (Alin) Abbott of Glenwood, Ia and Lois (Delmar) Derry of New Market, Ia; grandchildren Heather (Bryan) Webber of San Angelo, Tx, Robert Babcock and companion Heather Nelson of Waterloo, Ia, Sean (Samantha) Abbott of Glenwood, Ia, April (Bryan) Bradley of Oklahoma City, Ok, Joshua Derry (Bobbi) of Creston, Ia, Bradley Derry of Bedford, Ia, great grandchildren Felicity, Bailey, Walter, Ben, Jeffery, Levi, Jill, Justice, Meredith and Marshall.

Celebration of life services were held April 1, 2019 at the American Legion Hall in Gravity, Iowa. Interment was held on June 30, 2019 at the Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa.

 

Vanatta, Barbara Jane - Mar 31, 1934 - Nov 8, 2019 -

 

Wainwright, Mary Helen Payne - Funeral Services for Mary Helen Wainwright, age 101, were held Saturday, November 23, 2019 at the Cummings Family Funeral Home at 11 A.M. Interment was held at Graceland Cemetery.

My Life-In Mary Helen’s words

To me my life has been blessed & special. When an adolescent my parents said I was just like, “Topsy”- I just grew & grew up so fast; like how the many years I’ve lived have passed & passed so quickly, too.

I passed on November 19th, 2019, after a battle with pain & weakness; & just getting older.
I was born April 10, 1918; on a farm near Sheridan MO. I was the youngest child of 8. My oldest brother, Colburn suggested to my parents Thomas & Harriet Payne that my name be Mary Helen… & so it was. Most who knew me called me Mrs. Wainwright when I grew up for even at 1st grade I wanted to be a teacher.

I have wonderful memories of my childhood years. I remember entertaining myself most of the time as older brothers & sisters were away at school or married with homes and families of their own.

I especially enjoyed following my Dad whenever he went-tag along Mary. I loved also to ride a favorite Shetland pony. I remember 1 doll & buggy that kept me entertained for hours. When all else seemed to become tiresome I had kittens to enjoy. They were always close by so I could usually get lost from reality.

Starting school was just the natural thing to do & I loved it. I fell in love with all my teachers & decided on being a teacher from the very 1st day! Talk about chasing a goal- I did so, so early in life!

Reading just seemed to come to me. One day in 1st grade, when the teacher asked me to read the story to the class; I just did it, making no mistakes & from that day on, I could read.
I walked the half mile to & from school unless it was raining or snowing. It was then that Dad took me by horseback or by a team hitched to a buggy or a sled.

When in 7th grade my family & I moved to a farm east of Bedford.
I completed the 8th grade in a 1 room schoolhouse under a “super duper” teacher.
I graduated from Bedford H.S. in 1936. That Summer I successfully completed Normal Training & received my teaching certificate. My 1st teaching assignment that same Fall was at the Mt. Pleasant School, north of Gravity.

When 14, I met the love of my life Edgar. 8 years later we were married & we had 2 sons Steven & Philip. We strove together to beautify & care for the land we loved & be loving & caring Christian parents.

Teaching has taken up a lot of my life & glad for the gift of helping children learn of life. I taught for nearly 50 years in Taylor County retiring at 79 in 1998. So many schools; several one rooms, & then to Blockton, Conway, Gravity, & finally at Bedford.

Even after surviving a tornado, being the last to survive in my class, the last survivor of all my siblings; I feel graced by God for my wonderful, long life.
My retirement has been filled with mowing yards, helping my sons in & out of trouble and sometimes being a 2nd home for them, watching football, NASCAR, #24, talking politics to whoever would listen, & getting close to God.

I thought I’d never live to be 101 when I was a lil’ girl picking wildflowers in the timber & swimming in the creek, but I did, and I thank God with all my heart for the gift of my life.
I was preceded in death by my parents Thomas & Harriet Payne, my husband Edgar, 3 brothers, 4 sisters, and 2 grandchildren (Emily Jeanne & Christopher) and many nephews & nieces.

I leave behind my son Steven and Cynthia, son Philip; my grandchildren & great grandchildren, many special friends, and daughter-in-laws Sandy Wainwright and Peggy Wainwright

 

Weaver, Dale Eugene - Funeral Celebration of Life Services for Dale Weaver, age 68, of Lenox, who passed away late Thursday evening at the Greater Regional Hospice Home will be held Monday, November 11, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the Lenox Community Center. Visitation will be held Sunday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Community Center. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Dale Eugene Weaver was born November 6, 1951, in Shenandoah, Iowa the son of Duane Weaver and Virginia (Clark) Weaver. He grew up attending school in Lenox, graduating with the Class of 1970. After graduation he worked for Wilson Oil then he started driving a truck for Sheridan Egg Company. Eventually he went into production work at Sheridan Egg Company becoming a plant engineer. Dale's biggest work accomplishment was helping design and build the Pappetti's of Iowa plant in Lenox, now known as Michaels Foods.
Dale was united in marriage to Sharon Gilbert. Four children blessed their lives James, Angela, David and Brady. The couple later divorced and Dale met Treasa Watts who also worked at Sheridan Egg Company. The couple were married in 1985 and they were blessed with the birth of Cody and Chris. Eventually Cassie came to live with the family, making it complete.
Dale was a worker, he had been employed by Michaels for 49 years, 2 months and 7 days! He enjoyed spending time with the daycare children Treasa had in the home. He loved long drives and grilling on his Traeger Grill. Growing up Dale lived on the family farm, and even as an adult he enjoyed helping out on the farm when he could. Dale had strong family values and a hard work ethic that he instilled in his children and those around him. Dale and Treasa enjoyed traveling together most notably to Europe and Niagra Falls. The couple treasured their time in the mountains or at the ocean. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren most of all.
Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend is his loving wife, Treasa Weaver of Lenox, Iowa; his seven children, James Weaver and wife Heidi of Lenox, Iowa; Angela Culbertson and husband Mark of Clive, Iowa; David Weaver and wife Nikki of Lenox, Iowa; Brady Weaver and wife Megan of Wakefield, Nebraska; Cody Weaver of Lenox, Iowa; Chris Weaver and fiancée Kay of Lenox, Iowa; and Cassie Cosenza of Austin, Minnesota; fourteen grandchildren, Alex, Cassidy, Johnathan, Jacob, Kelsey, Grace, Julia, Mitch, Mika, Rylan, Jocelyn, Alexia Alyssa and Rex; two great-grandchildren, Hunter and Hadley; four brothers, Larry Weaver of Corning, Iowa; Terry Weaver and wife Trudy of Bedford, Iowa; Richard Weaver and wife Maureen of Creston, Iowa; and Delvin Weaver and wife Patti of Des Moines, Iowa; along with many other relatives, co-workers and friends.

Preceding Dale in death were his parents, Duane and Virginia Weaver; his father-in-law, Myron Schnackenberg; a sister-in-law, Sharon Weaver; and a son-in-law, Jon

 

Weller, Ronald Dean - Ronald was born March 12, 1947 in Conway, Iowa to Dean and Betty Weller. He grew up farming with his parents. Ron was driving a cultivator before he could see over the steering wheel and was on an Allis-Chalmers by the time he was 5.Ron spent his elementary years at Marshall No.4 schoolhouse and graduated from Bedford High School in 1965. Following his high school graduation he attended college at Iowa State University where he met life long friends and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture business. In 1969, Ron was drafted into the army and served his country honorably for 2 years, one of which was spent in Vietnam. Following his discharge from the service he lived in Des moines for 5 years working at The Job Service of Iowa where he met many lifelong friends.

In 1976 Ron returned to farming and bought the Lenord Straight farm in ‘76. He spent 40 years farming side by side with his Dad where they had hogs, cattle, row crop, hay and oats. They were always busy and never had a crossword to share with each other.

Ron found his soulmate in Lori Christensen in April of 1984. They married on August 9, 1986. They lived a life of love and laughter.Their union was blessed with 3 children, Chase, Derek, and Tabitha.

Ron spent his life living, loving, and working. Kindness was his way and anyone who knew Ron knew what a kind soul he had.Ron loved his wife and his children with all his heart. He loved watching them grow, compete, and flourish in their life.He loved his grandchildren without end and they truly brought joy to his heart.

Ron was preceded in death by his mother Betty Weller. Left to cherish Ron’s is the love of his life, Lori; his dad, Dean Weller, sister, Karen & Stan Price and their family, His three children: Chase (wife Jess Weller) , Derek (girlfriend Tiffany Green), and Tabitha (husband Brooks Wilson), his five grandchildren Realee, Jemma, Bo, Gracie, Brooks “Ronnie” all of Bedford, IA, along with many family and friends

 

Wilhelm, Carol Davis Lundquist - Carol G. Wilhelm, 86, Savannah, passed away Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at LaVerna Village, in Savannah.

She was born on Oct. 20, 1933, in Brooks, Iowa, to the late Thomas and Ruby Davis.

She was a graduate of Corning, Iowa, High School and began an eclectic working career holding positions with a grocery store, McCalands Drug Store, then served as a secretary and dispatcher for the Adams County, Iowa, Sheriff's Office and a substitute mail carrier, at the Corning Post Office.

Carol married Wilson Wilhelm, on Feb. 28, 1987, in Villisca, Iowa.

He preceded her in death on June 5, 2010.

In addition to her parents and husband, Carol was preceded in death by: stepdaughters, Connie Walters and Michelle Nasi; and step-grandson, Bryce Wilhelm.

Mrs. Wilhelm is survived by: a son, Andrew Lundquist; daughters, Rhonda (Scott) Wade and Val (Gary) Goldsmith; stepchildren: Tom (Barbara) Wilhelm, Rex (Hope) Wilhelm, Heather Nasi and Judy Havrick (Brian Pierson); several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and her caregiver and friend, Margery Coulter.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 18, 2019, at the Heaton Bowman Smith, Savannah Chapel, where the family will receive friends at 9 a.m, one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be held at the Gus Cemetery, in Gus, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to: Andrew County Senior Center or Savannah United Methodist Church. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.