Taylor County, Iowa obituaries K names
 

Kopp, Donald P. - Celebration of life memorial services for Donald Kopp, age 82, of Lenox, formerly of the Bedford area, who died Sunday, November 21, 2004 were held Wednesday, December 8, 2004, at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Interment of cremated remains was held in the Lexington Cemetery north of Bedford. Memorials can be given in Donald’s name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Donald P. Kopp was born January 17, 1922, on a farm south of Clearfield, Taylor County Iowa the son of Fred Kopp and Gail Parks Kopp. He grew up on the family farm and graduated from the Clearfield High School with the Class of 1939. After high school, Donald worked in the eastern part of the United States until a disability occurred. Donald returned to the family farm north of Bedford and continued to reside there until his mother, father and only brother, Dale Kopp, passed away. On November 4, 1984, Donald began to reside at Country Haven in Corning and on January 4, 1985, he moved to Taylor Ridge Estates in Lenox where he remained until the time of his death.

Donald enjoyed reading, doing big search crossword puzzles and enjoyed listening to any kind of music, especially gospel tapes.

Left to cherish Donald’s memory are cousins Velma Hanson of Clearfield; Marjorie Payne of Diagonal; Beverly Urie of Oakdale, Minnesota; Wilma Santiago of O’Fallon, Illinois; Gail Scnopps of Oak Brook, Illinois; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Donald in death are his brother Dale Kopp; his mother Gail Kopp; father Fred Kopp and his aunt Alice Bladon.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Donald’s passing.


Knott, Charles Leonard "Tubby" - Funeral services for Charles Leonard “Tubby” Knott, age 88, of Lenox, who died Friday, August 1, 2008, at the Creston Nursing & Rehab Center will be held Saturday, August 9, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Private family interment of ashes with military rites accorded by the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 will be held in the Blue Grove Cemetery.

Charles Leonard “Tubby” Knott entered this life April 6, 1920, and left this earth August 1, 2008. He was born on a farm in rural Sharpsburg, Iowa to Charlie and Mabel Underwood Knott.

Leonard attended country school for two years until his family moved closer to Sharpsburg and he attended Sharpsburg Public School where he played basketball and baseball. He was also very involved in 4-H, showing livestock. After graduating from high school he went into farming with his father.

Leonard joined the Air Force in 1942 during World War II. He was stationed at several stateside camps and was stationed in many overseas locations, such as: New Guinea, Dutch India, Philippines and Japan. Leonard was honorably discharged from military service in November of 1945.

Leonard returned to work on the family farm after serving in the military. He bought his first farm in 1956, just north of Sharpsburg. He was determined to build a stable and productive farm before beginning a family. Leonard loved farm life and was loyal to Farmall and International Harvester machinery. Leonard also worked for Crestland Coop in Lenox for fourteen years, after health concerns forced him to retire from farming. He truly enjoyed working with the public and still being involved in agriculture.

Leonard was united in marriage to Ona Gibbens on May 16, 1959, in Des Moines, Iowa. They cherished each other and maintained a mutual respect for each other for a glorious love filled forty-nine years. Their union was blessed with the birth of a daughter, Sundae. She was their pride and joy. Leonard instilled his devotion to family and the land in Sundae, teaching her how to care for livestock, drive a tractor and the farm pickup, and take pride in the family farm.

Kris Nelson “adopted” the family as her extended family in the late 1960's and that relationship has grown and thrived through the years. Kris and Leonard shared a special bond and he thought of her as a daughter.

Leonard had a quiet spirit and an intense fortitude that made him a very kind and special man who touched the hearts of all those who knew him. He loved life and encouraged those he loved to strive for their best. He truly loved the children in Ona’s daycare and
considered them to be a part of his family.

Leonard loved being a grandfather. His grandchildren were the light of his life. He cherished the time he spent with them, even traveling three hours each way to babysit when Sundae needed him. He loved to give them wagon rides behind the mower around the yard.

Those left to cherish his memory include: his wife Ona of Lenox; daughter Sundae, son-in-law Eric of Sharpsburg; grandchildren Benjamin and Meghan. Kris Nelson Palmer and husband Dean of Rice, Virginia; Jason, Matthew and Stephanie Harbor; sister Ellen Wehrhan of Lincoln, Nebraska; along with several nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding him in death were: his parents, his father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother, sister-in-law, two brothers-in-law.

He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
His enthusiasm, humor, insight and kindness will be missed by his family.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

 

Klassen, Gary R. - Funeral services for Gary Klassen, age 61 of Bedford, formerly of Corning, who died Monday, August 25, 2010 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Instead of flowers the family requests memorials be given in Gary’s name for a scholarship. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Gary R Klassen was born on August 31, 1948 in Kansas City, Missouri to Virginia (Gibbons) and Walter Klassen Sr. His family included a half brother Walter, Jr. and a sister Pam. He grew up in the Kansas City, Kansas area and attended Ponca Hills Military Academy and Pittsburg State University.
During Gary’s life he was blessed with three children and two step children. His family included Paul Klassen and Julie Larson (mother Carol Klassen), Breann Klassen (mother Susan Muscroft), and step children Andy Hatley and Ali Herring.
Gary enjoyed outdoor activities with family and friends throughout his life. His joys included dirt bikes, motocross, Harley Davidson motorcycles, ATV’s, camping, marksmanship and the building of the perfect fire to be enjoyed late into the night. He was always the competitor and worked hard to excel (basically outdo everybody else) at anything he attempted.
Whatever Gary attempted in his personal and professional life became a chance to learn new skills and technology that would make the task easier, whether it was automotive education, automotive repair, sales of woodworking equipment, creating woodcraft or farming. If he didn’t know how to do something he took it as a challenge to find the resources to educate himself. He didn’t read books but spent hours with instruction manuals and research to learn. He prided himself on a strong work ethic.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents Walter Sr. and Virginia and half brother Walter Jr.
He is survived by his wife Mary Lou Klassen of Bedford and her family, son Paul Klassen (Brooke)and granddaughters Gracie and Emma of Shawnee, Kansas, daughter Julie Larson and grandsons Aiden, Wyatt, Zackary,and Ethan of Harrisonville, Missouri, daughter Breann Klassen and granddaughter Keegan of Gardner, Kansas, stepdaughter Ali Herring (Matt) and grandson Jax of Brooks, stepson Andy Hatley (Jillian) and granddaughter Kaiden of Atlantic , sister Pam Lillie (Mike) of Prescott, nephews Matthew Lillie (Shawn) of Creston, Robert Lillie of Corning, Tyler Lillie(Shelly) of Creston, Joe Lillie (Sarah) of Slater, and Gary Lillie (Tristin) of Prescott and many friends

Gary will be remembered for his sense of humor, his willingness to help others, his thrift, his ability to make the best of a bad situation and his determination and grit.

The ride will not be the same without him.

 

King, David Randall - David Randall King Sr. Was born March 21, 1951 to Evelyn and Henry King. David grew up in West Virginia and graduated from Mount Savage High School in Mount Savage Maryland in 1969. David always had a strong desire to serve his country, and on the day of his graduation, he boarded a bus and headed off to boot camp. David joined the Marine Corps and bravely fought one tour of duty on the front lines in Vietnam.

After his military service, he continued his education at GrantsvilleVo-Tech Diesel Mechanic School. Then in 1978 he moved to Florida for a construction job and there he met and married Pamela Burton. To this blessed union, were three children, Joyce, David Jr. and Kristina. They moved to Iowa in 1984, eventually making their home in Bedford.

David loved working with his hands and worked construction his whole life. There was never a project too big or too small, and he took great pride in his work. He always had to be busy. David had two great passions in his life: His family and his tools. Some people collect cars, or baseball cards, David collected all kinds of tools and he could never have too many!!

David never knew a stranger, and had a way of making everyone laugh and smile with his sense of humor. He had a special place in his heart for children, he and Pam, welcomed many into their home over the years. He was especially fond of his granddaughters, Hailey and Elaina, they meant the world to him.

David was welcomed to Glory on the morning of December 26, 2009, with his family by his side. David was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. He was preceded in death by a daughter Kristina, his parents and a sister Carol Burcall.

He is survived by his wife, of 31 years, Pam; daughter Joyce Blake; son David King Jr; daughter-in-law April King; two grandchildren, Hailey and Elaina King; as well as many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

David will be missed by his entire family and manyfriends.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn David’s passing.

 

King, Donna Lee Gamel - Funeral Services for Donna King, age 65 of Bedford who died Monday, February 27, 2006 at Creighton Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska were held Thursday, March 2, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Donna’s name. Please leave a message of tribute to the King family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Donna Lee (Gamel) King was born January 13, 1941 in rural Bedford, Taylor County Iowa the daughter of Glenn Raymond Gamel and Lillian Opal (Grubb) Gamel. She grew up in the Taylor County area attending school much of the time under the tutelage of her teacher-mother. On June 12, 1960 she was united in marriage to David King in the King family home in rural Bedford, Iowa. Although she held many jobs outside the home, the majority of her work was working side by side with David on the farm. Plowing, cultivating, bailing hay while also taking care of the home and raising two children. They were blessed with the birth of a daughter Vicky and son Carl. Donna and David lived in the Bedford area most of their lives. She was further blessed with the birth of six grandchildren, Heather, Joshua, Jordan, Trevor, Caitlin and Kylee. By far her biggest enjoyment was her grandchildren, cooking for them and taking MANY pictures which she shared with visitors.

The couple loved to travel and garden, raising several types of flowers and vegetables. She enjoyed sharing the bounty of her garden with friends and family. Being ever frugal and letting nothing go to waste, she canned and froze the remainder for later use. Animals also played a large part in her life. She was a nurse to strays, sick farm animals, which she always named, and she seldom lost a “patient”. Her constant companion was always a lap, “guard” dog.

Left to cherish Donna’s memory are her loving husband of almost 46 years, David King of Bedford; a daughter Vicky Spencer and husband Calvin of Bedford; a son Carl King and wife Shannon of Webster City, her mother Lillian Gamel of Grant City, Missouri, a mother in law Opal King of Bedford; a brother Galen Gamel and wife Joyce of Grant City Missouri; six grandchildren, Heather, Trevor and Caitlin Spencer, Joshua, Jordan and Kylee King and many nieces and nephews and numerous other family and friends.

Preceding Donna in death are her father Glen Gamel and father in law Frank King and several other family members.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Donna’s passing.

 

Kiburz, William F. "Bill" - Funeral services for William F. “Bill” Kiburz, age 80 of Bedford, who died Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at Creighton Medical Center were held Friday, March 17, 2006 at 11:00.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 at the funeral home. Interment was held on Saturday, March 18, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at the Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello, Iowa. Memorials can be given in Bill’s name. Please leave a message of tribute to the Kiburz family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

William F. “Bill” Kiburz was born January 17, 1926, to Frank and Thelma (Welch) Kiburz in Scotch Grove, Iowa. He grew up in the Monticello, Iowa area attending Timber Country School through the 8th Grade and then graduated with the Class of 1944 from the Monticello High School. After high school, Bill entered the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He attended Boot Camp at Paris Island in South Carolina and then went to Camp LeJuengen in North Carolina. He went overseas in the Pacific and was assigned to the U.S. Flag Ship with the Admiral who was in charge of all U.S. Mine Craft in the Pacific Theater. He traveled to several islands on Pacific Duty, three different towns in Japan on Occupation Duty, and also to Shanghi, China. After his discharge Bill attended the University of Dubuque for one year and graduated from Cedar Rapids Business College. During 1948 and 1949, he served as a Deputy Sheriff for Jones County, Iowa. He then spent five years being a hog and livestock buyer in Monticello, Iowa and also spent two years with Aetna Insurance Company in Chicago, Illinois and Omaha, Nebraska.

In 1957, he went to work for Armour and Company in Waverly, Iowa where he met his future wife Sylvia Van Hove. On April 20, 1958, the couple was united in marriage in Titonka, Iowa. Together they were blessed with the birth of four daughters, Kimberly, Suzanne, Lisa and Karla. While with Armour, they also lived in Grundy Center and Mason City, Iowa, St. Joseph, Missouri and Kansas City, Missouri. In 1976, he was transferred to Bedford, Iowa where he was a hog buyer for Armour, Swift, Con-Agri, and Monfort. He retired in 1991.

Following his retirement, they traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada. Bill was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed attending many races throughout the years. His favorite pastimes were outdoor recreation including camping, boating, and hunting sports and spending time with his family. Bill was a member of the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 and the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars.

Left to cherish Bill’s memory are his loving wife of 48 years, Sylvia Kiburz of Bedford; four daughters, Kimberly Hullinger of Maryville, Missouri; Suzanne Neff of Columbia, Missouri; Lisa Kiburz of Bedford; and Karla Kiburz of Hendersonville, North Carolina; five grandchildren, Ross and Brock Hullinger of Maryville, Missouri; Eric, Ryan and Haley Neff of Columbia, Missouri; a brother Kenneth Kiburz of Marion, Iowa and a sister Anna Linda Ganzer of Wheatland, Iowa and a community of friends.

Preceding Bill in death were his parents Frank and Thelma Kiburz; a sister-in-law Janet Kiburz; a brother-in-law Roland Ganzer; and many aunts and uncles.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Bill’s passing.

 

Kernen, Doris Pearl Stewart - Funeral Services for Doris Kernen, age 88 of Bedford who died Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines were held Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Bedford. Interment was held in the Lexington Cemetery by the Lake of Three Fires north of Bedford. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.


Doris Pearl (Stewart) Kernen was born August 13, 1918 in Taylor County, Iowa the daughter of Franklin Cromwell Stewart and Nettie Centennial (Goff) Stewart. Doris grew up in rural Taylor County living on various farms with her family and attended rural schools. She was a cook at Terrel’s Boarding Home and later for Lucille’s Restaurant. She met Glenn Kernen when he kept driving around picking her up on rainy days. He had her schedule down pat. He always had a red apple waiting for her. She knew then she was going to marry him. The couple was united in marriage on April 20, 1941 in Hiawatha, Kansas. To this loving union two children were born, Glenda Helen Kernen and Stephen Carl Kernen. She and Glenn lived on the same farm south of the Lake of Three Fires until 1978 when they moved to Bedford.

Doris was a life-long member of the United Methodist Church; and a charter member of the Victory Club. The Forever Young Club, playing pitch, bowling and golfing were other interests. She was also a member of the Goodsam’s Club; Bedford Saddle Club and Square Dancing Club. Doris had a good voice and enjoyed singing. When she was young she received a special scholarship to continue her music education, but she was needed at home to care for her mother. This was very hard for Doris to turn down as music was very important to her. Over the years she truly enjoyed being a farmer’s wife …. well …. actually she ran the farm and the Kernen Elevator while Glenn was busy with the trucking business that went along with it. Together the couple worked side-by-side for many years on everything they did. Doris also enjoyed tending to her gardens. She was one of those people who said “everything had its place” and most often “everything was in its place!” Over the years Doris enjoyed riding motorcycles, flying and boating with Glenn. Their dancing was a wonderful part of their togetherness. They also enjoyed listening to gospel, country western and their daughter’s music.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Glenda Kernen of Des Moines; a daughter-in-law, Donna Kernen of Bedford; three grandchildren, Todd Weir; Danny Kernen; and Justin Kernen and wife Melissa; four great-grandchildren, Lance and Lauren Kernen and James and Michael Weir; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Doris in death are her parents; her loving husband Glenn in 2002; her son Steve in 1998; two brothers David Alfred and William Stewart; and four sisters, Ida Mae Sharp, Frances Belle King, Mattie Katherine Lee and
Helen Stewart.

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


Kernen, Beulah May Matheny - Funeral services for Beulah May Kernen, age 81 of Bedford, who died Sunday, March 23, 2008 at the Clarinda Regional Medical Center were held Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Bedford. Interment was held in the Lexington Cemetery in rural Bedford. Memorials can be directed to the First Baptist Church or the Gideons. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Beulah May (Matheny) Kernen was born February 23, 1927, near Platteville in Taylor County, Iowa the daughter of James Matheny and Mattie (Newby) Matheny. She grew up attending rural schools, graduating from the Blockton High School with the Class of 1944. After graduation, Beulah moved to Colorado and lived with her sister and brother-in-law. Later she returned to Bedford where she met Frederick Dale Kernen, who was working for a company that changed records in the ‘Nickelodeon’s’ (jukebox) at the local restaurant where she was working as a waitress. The couple was united in marriage on January 5, 1947, at the Methodist Parsonage in Gravity. After their marriage, Beulah and Dale lived in Sioux City for one and a half years where Beulah worked as a receptionist for the same company Dale worked for. The couple later returned to Taylor County. Four children were born to bless their lives, Sandi, Rick, Sonya and Randy.

Beulah and Dale farmed in Taylor County for thirteen years where Dale started doing some ‘2-Way Radio Work’. They moved to Conway in 1961, and together they ran their business known as Bi-State Electronics. In 1971, a tornado destroyed their house so they built a new home in Conway. In December of 1999, Beulah and Dale moved to Bedford. Beulah enjoyed being outdoors. She was a very creative person being especially talented in ceramic work, even having her own kiln! She also enjoyed crafts and scrap booking. Over the years Beulah and Dale were able to take many vacations, with the highlight of going to Egypt and the Holy Land. They toured much of the United States, along with several more trips abroad. In August, Beulah and Dale were able to drive to Seattle to see their twin great-grandchildren. Beulah’s world revolved around her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, having devoted her love of life and enthusiasm to learn by writing down and memorizing much of what they would say over the years. Beulah was a member of the First Baptist Church for over 48 years, having been active in all areas of ministry from being a Sunday school teacher, AWANA Leader and church secretary, only resigning in January of 2008, her gift of teaching children was always present in her enthusiasm and love for the Lord. Beulah also worked for over 17 years in prison fellowship and over 20 years as a member of the Gideon’s Auxiliary.

Left to cherish Beulah’s memory are her loving husband of 61 years, Dale Kernen of Bedford; four children, Sandi Salen and husband Richard of Bedford; Rick Kernen and wife Cathy of Seattle, Washington; Sonya Jones and husband Roger of Shenandoah; Randy Kernen and Sue Smith of Conway; seven grandchildren, Amanda Mackison and husband James of Olympia, Washington; Joshua Kernen and wife Andrea of Portland, Oregon; Arin Baker and husband Jesse of Bedford; Cale Jones and Rachel Jones, both of Shenandoah; Derick Kernen and Bethany Pickett of Bedford; and Devin Kernen of Bedford; four great-grandchildren, Brandon and Phoebe Baker of Bedford; and Clara and Henry Mackison of Olympia, Washington; a sister, Dorothy Newkirk of Bedford; an AFS daughter, Dr. Elisabeth Calvo-Bergman and husband Rick, and their children, Ryan and Samantha of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; along with many other relatives and friends in the community.

Preceding Beulah in death were her parents; a sister, Ethel Dant; and two brothers, John and Marion Matheny.

Beulah was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
Her enthusiasm, humor, insight, inspiration and
gentle kindness will be missed by everyone.

 
Key, Bonnie - Bedford [ritchie]
Key, Patricia Ann Nelson - Funeral Services for Patricia Key, age 60 of Lenox who died Friday, March 23, 2007 at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines were held Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Cremation followed the services. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Patricia Ann (Nelson) Key was born June 12, 1946, in Independence, Iowa the daughter of Floyd Nelson and Lenora (Zornes) Nelson. She grew up in the Independence area attending school, graduating with the Class of 1964. On December 30, 1989, she was united in marriage to Albert “Gene” Key in Independence.

After living her entire life in Independence, Patricia and Gene moved to the Lenox area in 2004. She especially loved moving back to the country where she could enjoy the peace and quiet. She truly loved spending time outdoors, tending to her garden and the numerous cats who kept her company. She was a very gifted quilter, and also enjoyed other sewing projects and making ceramics. Patricia truly loved her family, and always looked forward to spending time with her great-nephews when they came to visit. She had an adventurous spirit, and many times you would find her on the 4-wheeler with one of the nephews when they came to visit!

Left to cherish Patricia’s memory are her loving husband of eighteen years, Gene Key of Lenox; a son, Michael McMurrin of Des Moines; a step-daughter, Debra Gerjevic and husband Paul and their son Paul, all of Council Bluffs; a brother, Neil Nelson and wife Gloria of San Angelo, Texas; two sisters, Lynn Palmer and husband David of San Angelo, Texas; and Sue Johnson and husband Charlie of Independence; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Patricia in death are her parents, Floyd and Lenora Nelson; and two brothers, Mark and Mike Nelson.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Patricia’s passing.

 

Key, Louis Edward - Louis Edward Key began his life journey on June 11, 1936 in Adams County, Iowa. He was one of ten children born to Loyed and Edna (Weese) Key. He lived his entire life in the state of Iowa. On June 25, 1955, he was united in marriage to Bonnie Louise Key in Blockton, Iowa. To this union two sons and two daughters were born, Ronnie, Rodney, Rebecca and Rita.

Louis loved to watch wrestling and listen to auctions on television. He also enjoyed going to auctions and playing bingo. He especially loved when his grandchildren and great grandchild would visit him. He worked in Independence, Iowa at Corn Blossom Factory up to his retirement.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Ronnie Key and wife Jennifer of Ankeny, Iowa, Rodney Key of Lenox, Rebecca Devine and husband Dale of Woodward, Iowa and Rita Thurman and husband Ronald of Hatfield, Missouri; five brothers, Donald and Beulah Key of Winterhaven, Florida, Marvin and Beverly Key of Raymond, Iowa, Jerry and Kathy Key of Blockton, Iowa, Gene Key of Lenox, Iowa, and Harold Ray and Sheila Key of Wilbur, Washington; sister, Rose and Ora Owens of Des Moines, Iowa; seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Preceding Louis in death were his parents; wife, Bonnie; two brothers and one sister.

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

 

Keyt, Ruth Anna Burk - Funeral services for Ruth Keyt, age 93 of Gravity, who died Wednesday, May 16, 2007, in Gibbons, Nebraska were held Monday, May 21, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Burial was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be directed to the Nazarene Church in Gravity. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Ruth Anna (Burk) Keyt was born July 28, 1913, in May, Oklahoma the daughter of Stephen C. Burk and Anna (Knight) Burk. She grew up attending grade schools in Clinton Township, Putnam County, Indiana, graduating from the Faith Home High School in Tabor, Iowa. On September 25, 1938, she was united in marriage to Ross Leon Keyt at the Bethel Church in Putnam County, Indiana. To this loving union four children were born.

Ruth was active in assisting her husband in his ministry, playing the piano for many years at the Gravity Nazarene Church. She taught the young children’s Sunday school class, and enjoyed helping with the activities surrounding each year’s daily Vacation Bible School, and the Christmas program. Dozens of children in Gravity were nourished with her monster cookies.

Ruth lived independently in Gravity until 2002, when she moved to the Gibbon, Nebraska, Good Samaritan Care Center. Her last project was making tie blankets for each of the great-grandchildren last Christmas. She remained her pleasant self until the end.

Left to cherish Ruth’s memory are her three sons, Morris Leroy Keyt and wife Connie of Hartley, Iowa; Stephen Ray Keyt and wife Donna of Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Robert Wesley Keyt and wife Mary of Tallahassee, Florida; a daughter, Rachel Josephine Adams and husband Charles of Gibbons, Nebraska; nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Ruth in death are her parents, Reverend Stephen Cole Burk and Anna Knight Burk; her husband Reverend Ross Leon Keyt in 1989; two brothers Fred Harold Burk and Charles Marion Burk; and two sisters, Esther Fern Phillips and Opal Florence Newgent. Another sister, Mabel, died at infancy.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Ruth’s passing.

 

Keast, Esther Jane Glenn - Funeral services for Jane Keast, age 75, of Lenox, who died Sunday, August 24, 2008 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning will be held Thursday, August 28, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Corning United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox on Wednesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox at 1:30 p.m. Memorials can be directed to the Corning United Methodist Church. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Esther Jane (Glenn) Keast, daughter of John Glenn and Nora Rummons, was born April 28, 1933, in Fort Leavenworth, KS. She was the fifth of six children. Jane, age 75, departed this earth on Sunday, August 24, 2008 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, IA, following an extended illness of multiple myeloma.

Jane attended grade school at Leavenworth, KS and graduated from Clearfield High School in 1951. She attended Maryville State Teachers College and taught second grade in Macedonia, IA. There she met her husband, Donald Keast. They were married on August 15, 1954 and established their home in Lenox, IA. They began a restaurant, and Jane taught kindergarten for a short time for Lenox Community Schools. Their marriage was blessed with four children: Deborah, Donald, Darcy, and Darla.

Jane was a devoted mother and wife. She partnered with her husband in his business pursuits, including a restaurant, trucking business, and implement business, Keast Truck and Tractor. She also served as a substitute teacher for Lenox and Clearfield schools and as a Sunday School/Vacation Bible School teacher. She completed her teaching degree at Northwest Missouri State University in 1967.

Jane grew up in the Baptist faith and later became a member of the Lenox United Methodist Church and the Corning United Methodist Church. She was always a faithful member and generous with her gifts and services. Her Christian faith was evident in all areas of her life. Throughout her life, she continued to grow in her faith through daily Bible readings, Bible studies, and by attending spiritual retreats, such as the Walk to Emmaus.

Jane's faith was evident in her service to others. She spent many years caring for her husband as he battled cancer. She could always be counted on to care for her children, grandchildren, friends, and neighbors through major surgeries as well as minor illnesses. Her devotion and caring disposition brought much comfort to all that knew her. For many years she delivered Meals on Wheels for the community of Lenox.

Family and friendships were a special joy for Jane. She cherished the time spent with her family and always valued the close family bonds. Most holidays were spent with family gathered around her kitchen table and living room. She also enjoyed the time with friends. Daily coffee and walking around the town of Lenox were special times for Jane.



Survivors include her children: Deborah and her husband Steven Lilly of Greenfield, IA, Donald and his wife Eileen Keast of Lenox, IA, Darcy and her husband Andrew Rubenking of Corning, IA, and Darla and her husband Scott Helm of Creston, IA; eleven grandchildren; Jina and her husband Wesley Bresson, Beth and her husband Jason Gregory, Melissa Keast, Amy Rubenking, Tamara and her husband Matthew Ochs, Greg Lilly and his fiancée Kristi Schneider, Lisa and her husband Aaron Elliott, Michelle Rubenking, Chris Helm, Ryan Helm, and Tyler Helm, one great-grandchild Jenna Keast; sisters Dorothy Hinderer of Garland, TX, and Grace Montgomery of Ida Grove, IA; brother Charles Glenn of Spring Hill, KS; and sister-in-law Joyce Glenn of Excelsior Springs, MO, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Bonnie and Gene Parker of Apple Valley, CA.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald Keast in June of 1996, parents John and Nora Glenn, brother John Glenn, sister and brother-in-law Mary and Norris Tummons, sister-in-law Lynn Glenn, and brothers-in-law John Montgomery and Milton Hinderer.

Although Jane will be greatly missed,
her love and inspiration will live on through her family and friends.

Memorials should be directed to the Corning United Methodist Church.
Karas, Robert - Lenox

Karg, Geneva Ruth Wright - Geneva Ruth Karg was born March 26, 1926 in Brownville, Nebraska, the daughter of John Wright and Margaret (Sconce) Wright. She moved with her family to Iowa in 1938 and to New Market in 1940. Geneva was a 1944 graduate of New Market High School. Geneva was united in marriage on October 22, 1947, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Harvey Karg. They were blessed with two children, Richard and Barbara Jean. They raised their family on their farm west of Bedford, Iowa.

Geneva was a waitress for seven years at the Junction Café, Bedford, Iowa and she then worked as a sewing machine operator at O’Brien’s at Bedford for many years. She enjoyed reading, especially cooking magazines, and also enjoyed embroidering. Her greatest pleasure was her great grandchildren and her family.

Geneva is survived by her husband Harvey Karg of Clarinda, Iowa; son, Richard Karg and wife Sandy of Clarinda, Iowa; daughter, Barbara Jean Carey of Columbia, Tennessee; five grandchildren, Corrinna Bix, Scott Karg, Tammy Karg, Melissa Taylor, Shelley Karg; eight great grandchildren, Erica Rightsell, Mariah Rightsell, Dalton Bix, Austin Karg, Kourtney Karg, Karissa Karg, Ally Grant and Madeline Grant.

Preceding Geneva in death were her parents; brothers, Samuel Wright and Verl Wright; sister, Anna Guilliatt.

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

 

Karg, Homer Dale - Funeral services for Homer Karg, age 88, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Select Specialty Hospital, Omaha, Nebraska will be held Friday, February 12, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend John Clark officiating. There will be open visitation Thursday until 7:00 p.m. and visitation with the family will be held 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday prior to the service. .Burial with military rites by American Legion Sergy Post 98 will be held in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the American Legion Sergy Post 98.or to the American Legion Auxiliary. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Homer Dale Karg was born September 28, 1921, in Johnson County, Missouri to Robert J. Karg and Blanche Belle (Chappell) Karg. He was from a large family of five brothers and four sisters. As a young child, Homer spent time in Missouri and South Dakota before moving to the New Market/Gravity area in the early 1930’s. He helped farm around New Market until he answered the call to serve his country during World War II. Homer entered the Navy in May 1942; he was part of the Amphibians Force having served in the European Campaign and also extensively in the South Pacific. He earned numerous medals and ribbons. He was discharged December 12, 1945. On August 3, 1946, he was united in marriage to Beryl Ann Hardee in Troy, Kansas. They were blessed with three children, Patricia, Sherry and Marvin. They lived in Pleasant Hill, Missouri moving back to Page County and living in the Shambaugh area before moving to Clarinda in the late 1950’s.

In the early 1960’s, Homer went to work for the Lisle Corporation as a machinist and later a supervisor, retiring after twenty three years. Beryl Ann passed away in September, 1983. In 1986, Homer met Jan Moses and they enjoyed fishing in Minnesota, antiquing, and traveling. They enjoyed being around family which included the time spent at J’s Restaurant when Jan was working.

Homer was a member of the VFW (lifetime), American Legion Post 98 and a member for over fifty years of the Masonic Lodge AF & AM of Siam. He was a past member of the Clarinda Rotary Club. Homer was a member of the First Baptist Church of Clarinda.

Homer was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Beryl Ann; brothers, Clifford Karg and Alvin Karg; sisters, Juanita Weaver, Thelma Snow and Lola Belle Hughes.

Left to cherish his memory are his companion, Jan Moses of Clarinda, Iowa; children, Patricia Sunderman and husband Clinton of Clarinda, Iowa, Sherry Balster and husband Steve of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Marvin Karg and wife Teresa of Freeport, Illinois; six grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; Jan’s children, Jeff Moses of Maryville, Missouri, Jeanette Johnson and husband Bruce of Elmo, Missouri, Janalyn Sunderman and husband Dave of Clarinda, Iowa, Jay Moses and wife Karmen of Clarinda, Iowa , Joey Moses and wife Theresa of Lenox, Iowa, Jan’s thirteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; brothers, Henry Karg of New Market, Iowa, Robert Karg and wife Nadine of Clarinda, Iowa, Harvey Karg of Clarinda, Iowa; sister, Edith DeBord of Creston, Iowa; nieces; nephews and many friends.

 

Kane, Ardyce Louise Clement - Ardyce Louise Clement Kane was born April 8, 1931 at Guss, Taylor County, Iowa, and passed away May 1, 2008. Her parents were Dale Francis Clement and her mother’s name was Lela Fern Rogers Clement.
She joined the United Methodist church at Guss as a teenager and later joined the Valley View Baptist Church in Council Bluffs, where she was a faithful worker until her death.
Ardyce attended country school at the Weston County School, near Guss, Iowa, in Taylor County. She attended high school at Corning High School, Corning, Iowa. After high school she worked as a waitress at Sam and Ruby’s Café in Clarinda, where she met her husband-to-be, William Kane.
Ardyce married William Maynard Kane on June 20, 1952 at the Methodist Church at Corning. His parents were Lester Levi Kane and Anna Belle Arlington Kane.
Their three children are Karen Joell, Keith Maynard, and Kaye Louise.
Ardyce attended Key Punch Academy, Council Bluffs, Iowa. ECPI at Omaha, Neb. She has worked in factory, waitress, night manager ice cream sales clerk at Baskin-Robbins, catalog sales, Penney’s, clerical and computer input at Farmland Industries at Omaha. Her hobbies included reading, sewing, gardening, embroidery, candlewicking, and trying new recipes.
Ardyce was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister and three brothers.
She is survived by a brother, Carmen and Norma Clement; daughters Karen and Larry Clayton; Kaye and Tom Wiedermeier; stepson Bill and Carol Kane; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
King, Leroy Carl - Leroy Carl King was born October 3, 1943 in Blockton, IA; and died August 9, 2008 during a traffic accident near Red Oak, IA. He was preceded in death by his father Eldon L. King of Blockton, IA; an d his wife Dorothy Ann (Ray) King of Omaha, NE. He is survived by his mother Imojean King of Clearfield, IA; daughter Chris (King) Magnus, (John), grandchildren Carly, Michelle, and Johnny Magnus of Muskego, WI; his son Brant King Caroline), and granddaughters Ashlyn and Savanna of Hillsboro, WI; sister Sharon Byers of Saint Charles, MO; sister Alice Miller, Huntley, IL; niece Kelly Newsom, and nephew Greg Miller of Chicago, IL; brother William King and sister-in-law Betty of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law Jim Ray of MO; and Mary (Ray) Adams, (Ray) and many special friends, neighbors and loved ones.
As a young person, Lee joined the Blockton Christian Church. After graduating from Bedford, Community High School in 1962, he attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO, where he met his future wife Dotty. He joined Tau Kappa Epsilon’s Delta NU chapter while in college. After retiring he enjoyed actively supporting the chapter.
His working career spanned forty years starting by delivering newspapers that were brought in by passenger rail service. He also worked as a soda jerk, laborer, and salesman. He started working as a laborer on the Chicago Great Western Railroad, and held many positions on the Chicago Northwestern including periods in Des Moines, IA; Mankato, MN; Milwaukee, WI; and Chicago, IL. He retired as AVP of sales with the Union Pacific Railroad in Omaha, NE.
Lee’s life revolved around his family, work, and sporting events. He was active in all sports in high school and enjoyed playing softball after graduating. He continued to enjoy other sports as a spectator; and became an avid Green Bay Packer fan. He enjoyed golf, only wanting every shot to be a hole in one.
As an active Tiburon resident he was an SID officer and committee member. Lee never forgot a face or name and his many friends will remember his strong political opinions and his great sense of humor. He will truly be missed by all.
Memorial services were Thursday, August 14 at Kahler Dolce Mortuary, in Papillion, NE. Burial was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Blockton, IA with a graveside service Friday, August 15, 2008
King, Imojean Vera "Jean" Henry - Imojean Vera (Jean) King was born December 18, 1921 in Cass County, Iowa to Carl and Vera Henry. She passed away with family beside her in Clearfield, Iowa on June 16, 2009.
In 1941 Jean was united in marriage to Eldon King of Blockton, Iowa. To this union four children were born, Sharon, Leroy (Lee), Alice and William (Bill). Jean held several jobs during her lifetime, but her greatest joy was being a wife, mother, and grandmother. She spent many hours cooking, sewing, gardening and baking wonderful pies and bread for her family. Jean was also a skillful scrabble player, and enjoyed many games with her children and grandchildren. She was always ready to go on picnics and drives with her sister-in-law Ruth.
In August 1996, she entered Clearview Nursing Home in Clearfield, Iowa where she resided until her death.
She is survived by two daughters: Sharon Byers of St. Charles, MO; Alice Miller of Huntley, IL; one son: William (Betty) of Omaha, NE; her dearest friend and sister-in-law: Ruth Henry of Clearfield, brothers: Vernon and Carl Henry, sisters: Mary (Ralph) Pinkerton and Patty Herzberg and many nieces and nephews.
Also her beloved grandchildren: Kelly Newson, Greg Miller, Chris (John) Magnus, Brant King, Richard and Joe (Alison) Hunerdosse; great-grandchildren: Matt and Aubrey Newson, Carly, Michelle, and Johnny Magnus, Ashlyn and Savanna King, Josie, Alyssa and Ivan Hunerdosse.
Preceding her in death were her husband Eldon, son Lee, granddaughter Elizabeth, son-in-law Allen and daughter-in-law Dottie.
Graveside services and Interment were held Thursday, June 18, 2009 at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton, Iowa under the direction of the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Blockton Christian Church or Blockton Community Betterment.
 
Kothenbeutel, W. Kathleen Harris - W. Kathleen Kothenbeutel, 86, passed away on March 25, 2010 at Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center.
She was born to Carl and Angie Harris on May 6, 1923 in Redding, Iowa. Kathy grew up around Redding, Iowa and Grant City, Missouri. She moved to Cedar Falls, Iowa.
She married Harold Kothenbeutel on December 3, 1960. This would have been their 50th anniversary. They combined their two families and raised them in New Hartford, Iowa.
In 1980, they moved their empty nest to southern Iowa, first to Gravity and then to Bedford in 1983 where they resided ever since.
Kathy was a factory worker and restaurant worker—sometimes owning her own restaurants.
Kathy is survived by five sons, Carl (Mariella) Blake, Truman (Dr. Sharon) Blake, Buz (Eileen) Blake, Augie Blake and Jamen Kothenbeutel and five daughters, Kay Weedman, EstherDa Jardins, Pamela (Fred) Garbes, Vicky (Dennis) Emery and Cindy Dralle. She is also survived by 22 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.
Kathy is also survived by two brothers, Buzz Harris and Troy Harris.
She was preceded in death by a son, Rollie Blake, and grandson, David Blake, a granddaughter, Kristi Wagner, five sisters, Wanda, Esther, Margaurete, Ila and Josephine and two brothers, Junior and Louie.
Kathy was a talented seamstress and crafts person. She and Harold spent many happy hours making Christmas gifts for their family. In her later years she made quilts and blankets for everyone. She loved puzzles, knitting, and spending time with her grandchildren and friends. She was a 50 year member of the Rebecca Lodge.
Internment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in New Hartford, Iowa at a later date.
Kathy will be greatly missed.