Obituaries
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com
 
 

[Bruner, Clarissa Ann “Clara” Lomax]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      December 17, 1953     [p. 1]

Mrs. Clara Bruner Died Thursday

Mrs. Clara Bruner, long-time resident of Bedford, died December 10 at the home of her daughter and husband, Mr. and Mrs. John Hopson.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 12 at 2 p. m. at the Wetmore Funeral Home, conducted by rev. Benj. R. Hollis. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

Clarissa Ann, daughter of Elijah and Harriet Lomax, was born Dec. 2, 1857 at Abingdon, Ill., and died at the age of 96 years, eight days.

On July 31, 1882 she was married to W. [illiam] T. [heophilus] Bruner. To them three children were born. One died in infancy, James C. Bruner died in 1941 and Mrs. Lula Hopson lives in Bedford.

For a number of years, Mrs. Bruner was a member of the Christian church, and in later life she transferred her membership to the Methodist church with her husband. Mr. Bruner died in 1929. Mrs. Bruner was the oldest of a large family of children. She lived longer than any of her brothers and sisters. For some years she was blind and almost unable to hear, but through it all she was patient to the end.

She is survived by her daughter, Mrs. Lula Hopson; one grandson, Keith Jared and wife; two great grandchildren, James and Janet Jared.

[Bruner, Clarissa Ann “Clara” Lomax]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      December 17, 1953     [p. 1]

Attend Bruner rites

Those from out of town here for the last rites for Mrs. Clara Bruner were Mr. and Mrs. J. Keith Jared of Knob Noster, Mo.; Mrs. Joe Holmes and Mrs. Wm. Nall, North Henderson, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Keller, Mr. and Mrs. Chester Burks, King City, Mo.; Alice Burks, Kansas City; Mr. and Mrs. Earnest Burks, Clarinda; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Burks, Maryville.

[Bruner, William Theophilus]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday     September 5, 1929     p. 4

William Bruner

Wm. Bruner passed away at his home in Bedford about 11 o’clock this morning, after a lingering illness of several years. Funeral services will be held at the home Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock.

[Bruner, William Theophilus]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday     September 12, 1929     p. 4

Wm. T. Bruner

Wm. T. [heophilus] Bruner was born Oct. 27, 1857, in Knox County, Ill., and died at his home in Bedford, Ia., Sept. 5, 1929, at the age of 71 years, 10 months and 9 days. He moved with his parents to Linn County, Kansas, in the year 1858, and in 1874, moved to Nodaway County, Mo. In 1883 he moved to Taylor County, and this has been his home since that time. He joined the Methodist church when a young man and united with the church here in Bedford under the pastorship of Rev. Gable. He was married to Clara A. Lomax, July 31, 1882. To this union three children were born, the eldest dying in infancy. He leaves to mourn his going his wife, Mrs. Clara Bruner, John Clio [Cleo] Bruner of Loveland, Colo., Mrs. Lulu Jared of Bedford, a grandson, Keith Jared, a nephew, Ross Bruner, and a niece, Violet Holmes. Also a brother, Frank T. Bruner of Ottawa, Kans., and a sister, Dora Holmes of North Henderson, Ill., both of whom were present for the funeral. Mr. Bruner has been bedfast for more than five years, but was patient and uncomplaining all through these years.

The funeral services were held from the home Saturday afternoon, Sept. 7, in charge of the pastor, Rev. M. R. Talley, assisted by Leslie Cobb, a long time friend of the family. The body was laid to rest in Fairview cemetery.

[Chamberlin, Clifton Rupert “Cliff”]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      June 15, 1961     p. 4

Chamberlin Rites Held Here Thurs.

Last rites for Cliff Chamberlin of Bedford, who died at Des Moines General hospital, Monday, June 5, were held at the Madison Street Shum-Novinger Funeral Home Thursday afternoon, June 8. Rev. E. M. McGehee of the Presbyterian Church officiated. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

Cliff R. [upert] Chamberlin, eldest son of C. [hristopher] H. and Adella Bundy Chamberlin, was born near Ladoga, Iowa, on March 26, 1874, and passed away at the age of 87 years, two months, 10 days.

After attending Bedford High School and the Normal School in Shenandoah he returned to Bedford, where he engaged in farming with his father.

On September 28, 1898, he was united in marriage to Miss Lillie Henry, and they moved to the farm which was to be their home for the rest of their lives. Though no children were born to this union, they took Mrs. Chamberlin’s niece, Dorothea Henry, into their home and reared her as their own.

He is survived by the niece, Mrs. Dorothea Day of Villisca; one sister, Mrs. Alice May of Des Moines; his cousin and foster brother, Budd Chamberlin of Bedford; his niece, Mrs. Thelma Chamberlin Moore of San Fernando, Calif.; three nephews, Edson May of Des Moines, Leland B. May of Fort Dodge, Charles May of New York City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, one sister and one brother.

 

Chamberlin, Clifton Rupert “Cliff”]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday     June 8, 1961     [p. 1]

Cliff Chamberlin Dies In Des Moines

Clifton R. [upert] Chamberlin, 87, a long-time resident of Taylor County, died at Des Moines General Hospital June 5, Funeral services will be held today (June 8) at the Madison Street Shum-Novinger Funeral Home at 2:00 p. m. Rev. Eldridge McGehee is the officiating minister. Burial in Fairview cemetery.

 

[Chamberlin, Lydia “Lillie” Henry]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      November 22, 1951     [p. 1]

Mrs. Cliff Chamberlin Died at Home Nov. 16

Mrs. Cliff Chamberlin, 77, died at her home west of Bedford Nov. 16 following a long illness.

Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral home at 2 p. m. Monday, conducted by Rev. Robt. M. Peters. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

[Chamberlin, Lydia “Lillie” Henry]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      December 6, 1951      p. 8

Obituary – Mrs. Cliff Chamberlin

Lydia (Lillie) Henry, youngest daughter of Alexander and Isabella Henry, was born at Afton, Iowa, Dec. 18, 1873, and died at her home near Bedford on Nov. 16, 1951, aged 77 years, 10 months, 28 days.

When a young child she moved with her parents to a farm in the Gilead neighborhood where she grew to womanhood. Early in life she joined the Methodist church and was a faithful member as long as her health permitted.

On Sept. 28, 1898, she was married to Cliff R. [upert] Chamberlin and moved to the farm where they have made their home ever since.

Though no children were born to this union, they took her niece, Dorothea Henry, into their home and reared her as their own.

She is survived by her husband and the niece; two sisters, Mrs. Margaret Bailey of Omaha, Miss May Henry of Oak Park, Ill.; three brothers, A. H. Henry of Lone Elm, Kans., Walter S. Henry of Villisca, William G. Henry of Fort Pierce, Fla., four nieces and four nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, two sisters, and one brother.

[Fitch, Clara Mae Golding]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      June 9, 1955    [p. 1]

Rites Monday For Mrs. Mae Fitch

Mrs. Mae Fitch, a long-time resident of Bedford, died here June 3 after a long illness. Except for a few years in Oregon, she spent her entire life in Bedford.

Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Monday forenoon, conducted by Rev. Fred H. Cowles of the Baptist church. Burial in Fairview cemetery.

Clara Mae Golding, daughter of John and Margaret Golding, was born in Taylor County, Iowa, May 4, 1876 and died at the age of 79 years, 30 days.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Fitch; her father and mother, four sisters and three brothers.

She leaves one son, Vern Fitch of Des Moines; one brother, two grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren.

[Gaddis, Frances E. Allen]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday      March 1, 1928     p. 4

Frances Allen Gaddis

Mrs. Frances Allen Gaddis was born in Knox County, Illinois, on July 10th  [30th], 1864, and passed away at her home near Bedford, Ia., on February 27, 1928, at the age of 63 years, 6 months and 27 days. Mrs. Gaddis lived with her parents in Knox County, Ill., where she grew to womanhood, and was married to John Harvey Gaddis when 18 years of age. She spent 17 years of her married life in Knox County, 3 years in Aurora, Nebr., and since that time has lived at the present home in Ross Township. To this union six children were born as follows: Fred Gaddis, Hopkins, Mo.; America Gaddis Allen of Drexel, Mo.; Harvey, Arthur and Ethel Gaddis of Bedford and Elsie Foreman of Gravity. Thus we note the closing of a happy married life, yet all things earthly must come to a close, no matter how happy we are or how perfect the things of life seem to be, it all ends and we pass on. Mrs. Gaddis leaves to mourn her departure her six living children; also thirteen living grandchildren, three having passed away prior to her death. The husband preceded her in death on March 14, 1904. She was one of nine children, all having passed on except one sister, Mrs. Kate Ellinger, who survives her. Aside from those herein mentioned, Mrs. Gaddis leaves many other relatives and admiring friends. Mrs. Gaddis came to her death after a long lingering illness, which brought her much suffering and pain, yet during the entire duration of sickness, she was never known to complain or find fault with her lot in life. She was reported as being a wonderful mother and splendid homemaker, true to her family to the end. In fact we are safe in saying that she gave her life for her children. No greater tribute could be paid a woman, than to have it said of her after death: She was indeed a splendid mother and a true wife. We are told that Mrs. Gaddis was very fond of flowers, and spent much of her time working and living among the beauties and fragrance of her flower garden. Much inspiration and enjoyment comes out of such an attitude in life. We are sure that the sorrowing children have the sympathy of the entire community relative to the passing on of their mother they have loved and they will miss her, she cannot return to them, but they can go and dwell with her.

Funeral services were held at the Baptist church at 2:00 o’clock, Wednesday afternoon, February 29, conducted by Rev. C. M. Crowell. Burial was made in the Fairview cemetery.
[Note:  The birth date given on her headstone is July 30, 1864.]

[Gaddis, John Harvey, 1860-1904]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday       March 17, 1904     [p. 1]

Another Sudden Death

A Prominent Farmer Living Near Bedford is Suddenly Summoned to Another World---No Warning

Saturday afternoon John [Harvey] Gaddis, whose home is about five miles southwest of Bedford, was in town doing his usual trading, and left for the farm late in the day, feeling in his usual health. After reaching home he went to the barn to do the chores. In a few minutes after her had gone there, one of the boys found him lying unconscious in the barn. Dr. Standley was called but to no avail. The man never regained consciousness and died at 6 o’clock Sunday morning. Death was caused by the rupture of a blood vessel on the brain, and not by a kick from an animal as some supposed. He had never been subject to any serious attacks of sickness and was a strong man.

The funeral services were conducted at High Prairie church Tuesday afternoon by Rev. Ashley, of Hopkins. Interment in Titus cemetery.

Mr. Gaddis was 43 years, 11 months and 28 days old at the time of his death and leaves a widow and six children, three boys and three girls, to mourn their sad bereavement. Deceased was a kind and indulgent father, a loving, faithful husband and a true friend to many. He was a prominent citizen, and his death will be keenly felt in the community in which he resided. The bereaved ones have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.

About a year ago Mr. Gaddis and family came here from Nebraska and bought the A. H. Henry, Jr. farm. Deceased carried some insurance in the company represented by Wm. Head and $3000 in the Woodmen. The Woodman team of Grove camp, Jackson Township, and some members of the Bedford camp attended the funeral.
[Note: He was buried in Bedford Fairview and not in Titus (now Graceland) cemetery.]

[Gaddis, John Harvey, 1860-1904]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday      March 17, 1904      p. 5

A Large Funeral

John Gaddis’s Remains Buried Yesterday At Titus Cemetery in Presence of Friends and His Woodman Brothers

Yesterday afternoon the remains of John [Harvey] Gaddis were laid to rest in the Titus cemetery southwest of Bedford. The funeral was one of the largest in late years and was made impressive by the presence of uniformed Woodmen. Rev. Ashley, of Hopkins, conducted the service in a fitting manner.

A large procession followed the body of their beloved friend to the cemetery, where the Woodmen performed their ritual. They formed a wedge about the grave and covered the grave with evergreens and flowers.
[Note:  He was buried in Bedford Fairview and not Titus (now Graceland) cemetery.]

[Gaddis, John Harvey, 1860-1904]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday      March 17, 1904      p. 7

Dies From Paralytic Stroke

John H. Gaddis, a Well Known Resident of This County, Received Stroke of Paralysis Saturday Evening Causing Death

From Monday’s Daily

The residents of Ross and Polk townships were shocked yesterday morning to learn of the death of John H. [arvey] Gaddis, a farmer of wide acquaintance and numerous friends.

Mr. Gaddis has been subject to strokes of paralysis, and received one of these strokes Saturday evening while milking. He was picked up unconscious in the barn lot and carried to the house where he died at six o’clock yesterday morning after a night of suffering.

The funeral service will be conducted tomorrow at 1 p. m., from High Prairie church, eight miles southwest of Bedford, by the Rev. Ashley, of Hopkins.

The Bedford Woodmen are planning to attend in a body and have requested the Jackson Township and Conway lodges to assist. The part of the Woodmen in the service, however, may be omitted, as they are expecting the new ritual; and that may not arrive in time for the funeral. The interment will be made in Fairview cemetery.

John H. Gaddis was a man in the prime of life whose work was not finished. It is sad to know such men must die before their time. He leaves a widow and five children, and a large number of friends to mourn his early grave.

[Graves, Harry Walraven]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday      September 24, 1914      p. 8

Harry Graves Dead

Remains Are Brought to Bedford for Interment

Harry W. [alraven] Graves, who formerly resided near Guss, died in the Des Moines general hospital and his remains were brought here Tuesday for interment. He was 45 years of age. Mr. Graves was born in Lawrence, Kan., but spent many year of his life in Taylor County. When he was about 30 years of age he went to Nodaway, then to Creston, and finally to Des Moines, where he was employed by the street railway company. Mrs. Graves is a daughter of John Woods, formerly of Bedford and a niece of Mrs. R. [obert] F. [ranklin] Snyder.

Accompanying the remains was a committee of railway motormen and conductors, acting as pall bearers, as follows: Harley Mowery, J. B. Donahue, Charles Peacock, David Roderick, William Thomas, William [word missing]. In the funeral party also were Mrs. Myrtle M. Graves, his wife, Miss Robetta Waterman of Morris, Ia., Miss Nelle Boyd of Creston, Harvey Woods of Creston, Mrs. Hattie Woods of Des Moines.

[Hartzler, Allan Sigler]

Bedford Free Press

Tuesday      December 9, 1913       p. 8

Allan Sigler Hartzler

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hartzler, who were rejoicing at the birth of their first child, a son, born last Saturday, were forced to give it up, after a few short days, the little one dying Tuesday evening. A short funeral service was held at the home Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. John Currie. Interment was in the Fairview cemetery.

[HARTZLER, ALLAN SIGLER]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, December 4, 1913
Allen Siegler, the infant son of Mr. And Mrs. Harry Hartzler, died Tuesday. Short funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Interment was made in Fairview cemetery.

[Hillyer, Jane Hull Latham]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday     January 10, 1929     p. 4

Mrs. Jane Hillyer

Jane Hull, daughter of James and Rebecca Hull, was born July 10, 1839, in Muskingum County, Ohio, and passed away Jan. 6th, 1929, at her home in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was married Dr. W. [illiam] D. Latham on April 17, 1855, at Londonderry, Ohio. Three children were born to this union, Albert H., Frank M. and Mary Alice. Her loss was unusual for her husband passed from this earthly life in 1870, Frank M. in 1878, Albert H., in 1889 and Mary Alice in 1890 only two weeks intervening. Mary Alice was married to John D. Smith in Bedford, Iowa, and to this union were born Clarence C. [reed] and Leila Alice who were left motherless by her untimely death. In 1882 [1883] Jane Hull Latham was married to L. [ewis] W.[ellington] Hillyer at Bedford [Creston], and upon the death of her daughter Alice she took the place of mother to Clarence and Leila and has shown them devotion unparalleled. The husband, L. W. Hillyer died in 1897. In 1896 she moved to Lincoln where the father of the father was residing and here is where she reared them to manhood and womanhood, ever faithful and unselfish, with every thought and effort in their behalf. Mrs. Hillyer was from childhood a devoted Christian, having become a member of the United Presbyterian church at a tender age and never failing in her devotion ot the church and its activities. She joined the Presbyterian Church in Lincoln soon after moving to that city. Mrs. Hillyer has made her home with her granddaughter, and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Hendricks of 2441 O. St., Lincoln, since their marriage and will be greatly missed from the home circle. She is survived by four grandchildren, Blanch and Frank Latham of Chicago, Mrs. E. R. Hendricks of Lincoln, and Clarence Smith of St. Joseph, and a great grandson Floyd Hendricks of Lincoln, Neb.

 Funeral services were held in Lincoln and the body was shipped here for burial. A short service was held at the Wetmore Funeral Home on Wednesday afternoon conducted by Rev. M. R. Talley, and burial was made in Bedford cemetery.
[Note: ---Ex-Senator L. W. Hillyer, of Gay Township, was married on Wednesday of last week to Mrs. Jane Latham of this city. The ceremony took place at Creston and was performed by Rev. C. W. Blodgett. The groom is well known throughout the county and Southwestern Iowa, and is one of the oldest and most highly esteemed citizens of Taylor. The bride is a most amiable and estimable lady. . . .  Taylor County Republican, May 10, 1883, page 1.]

[Hillyer, Lewis Wellington]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday     June 3, 1897     p. 2

After a brief illness of two days duration squire L. [ewis] W. [ellington] Hillyer died at the Elmwood Hotel, Saturday night, May 29, at 11:30. Aged 80 years.

Mr. Hillyer was born in Ohio, moving to Taylor County in 1859, settling at Platteville, where he resided until he moved to Bedford.

In an early day Mr. Hillyer took quite a prominent part in politics and served two terms in the state senate.

Mr. Hillyer never had the advantages of a public school that the people of this day have but by constant reading and study had acquired a thoroughly practical education and had few superiors in matters of knowledge and wisdom.

During last winter Mr. Hillyer suffered a severe spell of illness from which it was then thought he would not recover. However to all appearances he did recover and up until he was taken sick last Thursday no one thought that he would pass away before the dawn of another week. His wife, who resides at Lincoln, Nebraska was sent for but on account of sickness was unable to be here.

In the death of Mr. Hillyer Bedford loses a good and upright citizen, and the relatives and friends have the sympathy of the entire community. Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian Church, of which he was a member, Tuesday at 9 a. m., conducted by Rev. E. N. Ware, after which the remains were taken to Platteville for interment.

[Hillyer, Mary Elvira Fuller]

Taylor County Republican

Thursday     July 22, 1880     p. 3

Mrs. Mary E. [lvira] Hillyer, wife of ex-Senator L. [ewis] W. [ellington] Hillyer, one of the most widely known citizens of Taylor County, was born in Utica, Licking County, Ohio, on the 18th day of July, 1820. She was the daughter of Dr. Nathaniel and Celestina Fuller. She received a good education in her youth at the schools in the vicinity of the place of her birth, and subsequently taught school for some time in the same locality. She was married on the 12th day of March, 1839, at Utica, and removed with her husband to Alexandria, Ohio, from which place she some time after returned to Utica, and from there removed to Taylor County, Iowa, in the fall of 1858.

Mrs. Hillyer joined the M. E. Church at the early age of twelve years, under the ministry of Rev. Joseph McDowell, at a camp meeting held in Knox County, Ohio, and continued to be a faithful and consistent member thereof until her death, which took place on the 15th of July, 1880. She was the mother of seven children, four of whom together with her husband, survive her. Of the surviving children, two are married and reside in Taylor County, viz.: Mr. J. [ustin] N. Hillyer, of Gay Township, and Mrs. P. C. King, of Bedford; the other two are unmarried, one of them, Mr. G. R. Hillyer, residing in Carrol County, Iowa, and the other, Mr. F. E. Hillyer, being still at the homestead in Gay Township. Mrs. Hillyer lived in Taylor County for twenty-two years, and died on the farm, which her husband and herself had made.

Inst., and was very largely attended. The services were held at the M. E. Church in Platteville, and were conducted by Rev. C. W. Blodgett, of this city, and Rev DeTar, of Mormontown. The remains were consigned to the earth at the Platteville cemetery.

_________________

Since the foregoing was put in type we have received from Rev. J. D. DeTar, of Mormontown, the following.

MEMOIR

 

Mary E. [lvira] Fuller, daughter of Nathaniel and Celestina Fuller, was born April 18th, 1820, in Utica, Licking County, Ohio, where she was brought up. Was married to her now bereaved husband, Lewis W. Hillyer, March 12th, 1839. She then removed to Alexandria, Licking County, to her husband’s home, and thence to Newark, the county seat of Licking County, thence to Utica and thence to Taylor County, Iowa, in the fall of 1858, where she died of yellow jaundice, July 15th, 1880, at 11:30 A. M., on the farm improved by her husband and herself. Her age at the day of her death was 60 years, 2 months and 28 days. Having an excellent education she taught school prior to her marriage. She was a great reader during her whole life, the Bible being her favorite book. She experienced religion at the early age of 12 years, at a camp meeting in Knox County. Was awakened by a sermon preached by Rev. Joseph McDowell; was converted and joined the M. E. church and has been an active member ever since. When a girl teaching school she paid her quarterage regularly, and supported all the benevolent institutions of the church. She was always regular in attendance upon all the means of grace when it was in her power to do so, an enthusiastic Sunday school worker, much attached to the church of her choice, and loved all its institutions. To work in a revival meeting was to her a great delight. Those who were permitted to be with her in the prime of her womanhood say that she had remarkable power in prayer and exhortation. From childhood to death she was always ready to lead a repenting soul to the altar of prayer. She was the mother of seven children, four boys and three girls, three deceased, two married and two single. She seemed conscious of her approaching dissolution, talking little during the last few days of her life. Her death came sooner than expected by her friends, and consequently, her family were not all present, as she would have desired. She died calmly and without pain. A good woman, a good wife, a good mother, a mother in Israel has fallen. She rests from her labors. She was buried at the Platteville Cemetery, July 17th, the funeral services being conducted by Rev. DeTar assisted by Rev. Blodgett. A large concourse of people followed the remains to the grave. The afflicted family and husband have a large number of sympathizing friends.        J. D. DeTar

[James, Lewis Larkin]

Maryville Daily Forum

Thursday      August 10, 1978

Lewis Larkin James

Lewis Larkin James, Arnold Park, Iowa, formerly of Sheridan, died today at a Sioux Falls, S.D., hospital. He was 65.

He was in the military service during World War II.

Born March 10, 1913 at Taylor County, Iowa, he was the son of John and Eunice James.

Survivors include two brothers, Kenneth James, Hopkins, and Earl James, El Cerrito, Calif.; four sisters, Mrs. Lucille Cullin and Mrs. Fern Tarter, both of Percival, Iowa, Mrs. Jean Shawn, Raytown, and Mrs. Avis Davis, Concord, Calif; and several nieces and nephews.

Services are pending at the Swan-Price Funeral Home, Hopkins.

[James, Lewis Larkin]

Maryville Daily Forum

Tuesday     August 15, 1978

James services conducted Monday

Funeral services were conducted Monday at the Swanson-Price Funeral Home, Hopkins, for Lewis Larkin James, Arnold Park, Iowa, who died Thursday.

Burial was in the Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, with the Rev. Joyce Young officiating.

Mrs. Margaret Weir played organ selections.

Pallbearers were Wade, James, Gary and Thomas Cullin; Dean Williams; and Dean James.

[Jared, Eva Geraldine “Geri” Ingram]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday     August 5, 1998

Eva Geraldine "Geri" Jared

Funeral services for Eva Geraldine "Geri" Jared, age 81, who died in Bloomington, Minnesota on July 26, 1998 were held at the Ritchie Funeral Home on July 30 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Michael Druhl officiating. Burial was in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Eva Geraldine "Geri" Jared, daughter of Hiram and Opal Cannon Ingram was born in Nodaway County, Missouri, 7 miles west of Hopkins on January 8, 1917. She grew to maturity in the Hopkins area, graduating from high school in 1934. On June 14, 1938 she was united in marriage to J. [ames] Keith Jared in Troy, Kansas. To this union a daughter, Janet and a son, James were born. 

Keith and Geri moved to Bedford and operated the Dew Drop Inn on the corner of Main Street and Highway 148 until 1939. Keith's employment kept the family moving around the country until 1959 when the family settled in Bloomington, Minnesota. Keith and Geri moved to Bedford in 1985. Geri resided in Bedford until moving back to Minnesota when her health failed.

Geri was a member of the Bedford United Methodist Church and the Order of Eastern Star.  She loved to play cards and be involved socially.   She was a good listener and always willing to help out. After her husband’s death she often took bus tours and had even traveled to Alaska.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet Kerr and husband Richard of Kansas City, Missouri; a son, James Jared and wife Paula of Burnsville, Minnesota; two brothers, Maurice Ingram and wife Marilyn of El Paso, Texas and Donald Ingram and wife Lois of Burley, Idaho; two sisters, Ruth Nuehold and husband Fred of Lamar, Colorado and Dorothy Rankin of Baldwin, Missouri; a half sister, Sharyl DeMoss and husband Bob of Lincoln, Nebraska; eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers, Harold and James Ingram, a sister, Marilyn Kiehl and a grandson, Kenneth Kerr.

[Jared, James Keith]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday     April 19, 1989

JAMES KEITH JARED

Memorial services for James Keith Jared, 72, Bedford, were held April 15 at Bedford United Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Paul Shultz. Mr. Jared died April 11, 1989 at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, Mo. Cremains were interred at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

James Keith Jared, son of Glen Lewis and Lula Bell Bruner Jared, was born at Bedford, Iowa on June 20, 1916. He lived in Bedford and grew to maturity in Bedford where he attended the public school and Baptist and Methodist Churches.

On June 14, 1938, he was united in marriage to Eva Geraldine Ingram at Troy, Ks. and they lived in Bedford and many, many other places.

To this union two children were born, Janet Kaye and James Lewis.

He was engaged as a civil engineer for much of his working life.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild.

Left to cherish his memory are wife Geraldine of Bedford; daughter Janet Kerr of Kansas City, Mo., and grandchildren Karen, Kathleen, and Kimberly Kerr; son Jim of Burnsville, Mn., and grandchildren Dawn, Mark, Timothy, Daniel, and Angela Jared; and two great grandchildren Matthew and Caressa Jared.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church and the Masonic Lodge.

He was a thoughtful man who enjoyed life fully, and he will be missed by all who loved him.

[Jones, Carl Elza]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      April 18, 1963      p. 5

Final Rites Held For Carl E. Jones

Funeral services for Carl Ellsworth [Elza] Jones were held April 12 at the State Street Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Robert Jones officiating. Mr. Jones was killed in a tractor accident on April 10. Interment was in Fairview cemetery, Bedford.

[McKee, Sarah Louise Haidsiak]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      October 21, 1976

Sarah McKee, 20

Funeral services for Sarah Louise (Haidsiak) McKee, 20, of Hopkins held October 19 in Hamilton Memorial United Missionary Church in Bedford, were conducted by Rev. Larry Secor. Mrs. McKee died in her home near Hopkins, Mo. October 16, 1976. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Sarah Louise (Haidsiak) McKee, the daughter of Max A. and Lois Jean (Snyder) Haidsiak, was born at Mt. Ayr, Iowa, on January 27, 1956.

She lived; in Taylor County all of her younger years and grew to maturity in Bedford where she attended public school and was graduated with the class of 1974. She united with the First Baptist Church of Bedford on January 25, 1970, two days prior to her 14th birthday.

On August 23, 1975, she was united in marriage to Michael F. McKee in the Hamilton Memorial Missionary Church of Bedford, after which they made their residence on a farm near Hopkins.

She was employed by Reigel Inc. at Maryville, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Haidsiak, and her grandfather, Merle Snyder.

Left to cherish her memory are: her husband, Mike; parents, Max and Lois Haidsiak; seven brothers: John, his wife, Ann, and their children, David, Robin arid Heather; Wayne, his wife, Connie, and their children, Mike and Tracy; Lee, his wife, Sheila, and daughter, Diane; Lynn, his wife, Carole; Leland, his wife, Melody; Max Alan and Mark; three sisters: Susan, her husband, Doug Chesnut, and son, Jason; Kristi Ann; Lisa; grandmother, Ruby Snyder; and many other relatives and friends.

Sarah always wore a ready smile and was compassionate in nature. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

[May, Alice Chamberlin]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      March 8, 1989

Services for Alice C. May, 100, were held Monday, March 6, 1:30 p. m. at the First Baptist Church in Bedford, with Rev. Carl Cummings and Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Alice Chamberlin May, daughter of Adella Bundy and C. [hristopher] H. Chamberlin, was born on September 28, 1888, on her parents’ Taylor County farm eight miles northwest of Bedford.

After graduating from Bedford High School, she attended college in Valparaiso, Indiana, and then taught for two years in South Dakota. In 1913 she married Harry E. [dson] May of Bedford and assumed the duties of a farmer’s wife on his farm a mile south of town. Alice and Harry had three sons, H. Edson, Leland B. and Charles Paul.

Years ago Mrs. May was the organist for the First Baptist Church of Bedford (of which she was a member). In those days organists had a helper to pump the organ, but Mrs. May did not want this help. A helper would break her stride.

During World War II Alice and Harry settled in Des Moines, where he died March 1964. In addition to her sons, Alice is survived by one granddaughter, five grandsons and 14 great grandsons and granddaughters.

[May, Harry Edson “Skeet”]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      March 12, 1964     [p. 1]

Graveside Services Here For Harry May

Graveside services for Harry E. (Skeet) May, 77, of Des Moines will be held today, (Thurs.) in Bedford at 1:30 p. m. at Fairview Cemetery. Services will be held in Hamilton Funeral Home in Des Moines at 9:00 a. m. Thursday. May died Monday at Wilden Hospital in Des Moines following a heart attack.

[May, Harry Edson “Skeet”]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      March 19, 1964     p. 5

Harry E. May, 77, Rites March 12

Funeral services for Harry Edson (Skeet) May, 77, of Des Moines were held at Hamilton Funeral Home in Des Moines with graveside service at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford on March 12. Mr. May died March 9 in Wilden hospital in Des Moines following a heart attack eleven hours earlier.

Harry Edson May was born and reared in the Bedford area.

On May 27, 1913 he married Alice Chamberlin. They lived south of Bedford where May farmed and conducted a dairy business. He also was an employee for the Des Moines Register for a number of years in addition to selling appliances for Worley-Severs in Bedford.

The past 21 years May and his wife have lived in Des Moines. In recent years he owned and serviced vending machines in the Des Moines area.

He was a member of the Baptist church.

He is survived by his wife, Alice, and three sons, H. Edson May, Des Moines; Leland B. May, Fort Dodge, Ia.; Charles P. [aul] May, New York City, N. Y.; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

[May, H. Edson]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      August 11, 1993

H EDSON MAY

Edson May 77, of Urbandale Health Care Center, Urbandale, died of a pulmonary vascular disease at the center. Services were held June 2 at Dunn's Funeral Home with burial at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. May was a former resident of Bedford and a 1934 BCHS graduate.

Mr. May was born in Bedford and had lived in the Des Moines area since 1935. He was retired from Prudential Insurance Co. and was a member of Central Presbyterian Church.

Survivors include two sons, Charles of West Des Moines and Howard of Illinois; a daughter, Patti Christensen of West Des Moines; two brothers, Charles P. [aul] of New York and Leland of South Dakota; and seven grandchildren.

[May, Leland “Bud”]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      December 10, 2003

Graveside services for Leland "Bud" May, 84, were held November 26, 2003 at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford with Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. May died November 20 in Sioux Falls, S.D.

Leland May was born June 9, 1919 in Bedford, Iowa to Harry and Alice (Chamberlain) May. He graduated from Bedford High School in 1937, and in 1940, entered the U.S. Army. He served during WWII.

Bud was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Paxton in September 1941, at Des Moines, Iowa. After he received his honorable discharge from service in 1945 the family lived in Des Moines, Iowa where Bud began his career with National Cash Register as a technician. In 1948, they moved to Ft. Dodge, Iowa. During the summers of his employment with NCR, he studied electronics at a technical school in Dayton, Ohio. In 1975, the couple moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Bud began working for Data Business where he continued his work with NCR machines. Following his retirement in 1988 he moved to Lake Poinsett, S.D. where he helped operate the family business at Lynmar Resort. He enjoyed working outdoors on the resort grounds and also doing maintenance projects. Mary Ellen preceded him in death in May 1993.

Bud enjoyed playing cards and pool, and liked fishing and camping with his family. Carrying Christ with him wherever he would go, Bud was a man with deep faith. His Lord was always an important aspect of his life. Charitable and caring, Bud's giving spirit will be long treasured.

Grateful for having shared his life are his sons, Robert May and his wife, Barb, Sioux Falls, S.D., Paul May and his wife, Rachel, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, Richard May and his wife, Sally, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and his brother, Charles May of Des Moines.

[Moore, Thelma May Chamberlin]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      April 4, 1990

THELMA MAY MOORE

Funeral services for Thelma May Moore, 71, Oroville, Ca., were held April 2, 1990 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Paul Shultz. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Mrs. Moore died March 26, 1990 at Chico, Ca.

Thelma May Chamberlin, only child of Leslie Lee and Alta Lovitt Chamberlin, was born on the Chamberlin family farm northwest of Bedford July 15, 1918 and entered into rest in in Chico, Ca. March 26, 1990.

She grew to womanhood in the Bedford area and was graduated from the Bedford High School in 1936. On June 28, 1939, she was married to Henry D. Moore of Bedford and they established their home there. She worked for the City Water Department and after Henry was called into service she worked for the Clerk of the Court. After a time, she moved to California to be near her mother and remained there until Henry returned from the service. In 1947 they moved to Clarinda and joined Henry's uncle in the dairy business. In 1951 they returned to California and established their home in Mission Hills. Henry worked for Lockheed; Thelma worked for Lucky Lager Brewing Company and Bank of America. Some 12 years ago they retired and moved to Oroville, Ca. On June 28, 1989 they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary.

Thelma was an outgoing person, making friends easily, and always willing to lend a helping hand to those who needed it. She was active in her church and served on many communities. She never complained during her illness and faced the finality of her illness with faith and courage. She died of cancer of the liver in Chico, Ca. March 26.

She is survived by her husband; several cousins and many, many friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorial services were held at the Oroville Methodist Church March 29.

[Pizza, Etta Van Reenen Morton]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      October 9, 1947     [p. 1]

Mrs. Fred Pizza Succumbs Sunday

Mrs. Fred Pizza, the former Miss Etta Van Rennen [Van Reenen], died at her home in Bedford Sunday, October 5, after a lingering illness. She is survived by her husband.

The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. Paul F. Marasco of Clarinda. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

[PIZZA, ETTA VAN REENEN MORTON]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, October 9, 1947, [p. 1]

Bedford Rites For Mrs. Pizza, Former Grille Operator Here

Mrs. Fred Pizza, 67, who with her husband conducted the Venetian Grille until about three years ago, died at Bedford last weekend. Services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Wetmore Funeral home in Bedford, with requiem mass conducted by Father Paul Marasco of the St Clare church. At the request of Mrs Pizza Mrs Leslie Forbes of Clarinda sang. Mrs. Mary Tracy also sang.

 

[Sleep, Marvin Allan]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      November 19, 2003

MARVIN SLEEP

Funeral services for Marvin Sleep, age 66 of Bedford, who died Sunday, November 9, 2003, were held Wednesday, November 12, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Pastor Ted DeHass officiating. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Marvin's name.

Marvin Allan Sleep was born May 3,1937, along with his twin sister, Marvis, to Dale Sleep and Vera Murray Sleep in Taylor County, Iowa. He attended country school located just across the road from his home. Marvin graduated from Bedford Community High School with the Class of 1956. On September 1, 1956, he was united in marriage to Dorothy Dukes at the Laurel Street Baptist Church in Maryville, Missouri. To this loving union three children, Judy, Terry and Mike were born.

Marvin's most enjoyable career of raising cattle and farming was preceded by some other varied endeavors which included assistant manager of the Farmer's COOP in Bedford. Marvin also bought and sold some farms over the years. Most of his farming took place east of Bedford on 240 acres. During his farming years, he was also a salesman for MoorMan's Feed. He was quite the salesman. He was the first to sell train carloads of feed into Taylor County for MoorMan Feed Company.

Marvin and Dorothy decided to get into the restaurant business. They designed, built, managed and ran the former Red Lantern in Bedford from 1975 to 1979. In 1979, Marvin and Dorothy purchased 120 acres just south of Bedford where they built their present home. Marvin continued his cattle operation by buying, feeding and selling calves.

Marvin enjoyed his cattle buying trips over the years to the Sale Barns and looked forward to the fall run and special cattle sales. He also liked the local coffee shops in the mornings to catch up on the town gossip and discussions of how the crops were coming along. Special events were the family dinners and family get-togethers.

Left to cherish Marvin's memory are his loving wife Dorothy of Bedford; a daughter Judy O'Grady and husband Richard of Bedford; a son, Terry Sleep and wife Julie of Johnston; granddaughter Shauna Vis and husband Andy of Des Moines; granddaughter Shelby Hansen and husband Troy and great-grandson Jayden of Phoenix, Arizona; granddaughter Lindsay Sleep of Orange City; and a son Mike Sleep and wife Jean and granddaughter Courtney all of Olathe, Kansas.

Four brothers, Wilbur Sleep and wife Joyce; Bob Sleep and wife Mary Jo, all of Bedford; Johnny Sleep and wife Sandra of Gravity; Ronnie Sleep of Lenox; two sisters, Betty Miller and husband John of New Market; and Karen Drake and Darrell Tissue of Moravia, Iowa; sister-in-law, Barbara Benson; brothers-in-law, Kenneth Dukes and wife Edna and Rodger Dukes.

Preceding Marvin in death are his parents, Dale and Vera; two brothers Gerald and Eldon Sleep; and two sisters, Marvis Ballard and Darlene Claybaker.

[Snyder, Frank Merle]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      December 5, 1968      p. 5

Merle Snyder Rites Wednesday

Funeral services for Frank Merle Snyder, 67, of Bedford, were held Wednesday, December 4, at 2:00 p. m. at the east Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here, conducted by Carl Cummings and Rev. Ollie Odle. Mr. Snyder died December 1, 1968 at his home in Bedford. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Frank Merle Snyder, son of Robert Franklin and Sarah Jane Woods Snyder, was born September 19, 1901 in Taylor County, Iowa, in the East Mission Church Community east of Bedford.

With the exception of two years when he lived in Red Oak, Iowa, he had spent his entire life in or near Bedford.

On October 20, 1922, he was united in marriage to Ruby Trumbo and to them were born five children, Helen Louise, Robert, Lois Jean Haidsiak of Bedford, Mary Lou Dukes of Hopkins, Mo., and Richard Lee Snyder of Clarinda, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Helen Louise, one son, Robert and one grandson, Tony Ray Snyder.

He is survived by his wife Ruby; daughters, Lois Jean and Mary Lou and son Richard Lee; two sisters, Mrs. Sylvia Croy of Bedford and Mrs. Alta Freeman of San Leandro, Calif.; 21 grandchildren; one great grandson; other relatives and many friends.

He was a member of the First Baptist church in Bedford.

He was a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather and a friend to everyone who knew him.

[Snyder, Helen Louise]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday      November 13, 1924     [p. 1]

Murl Snyder’s Baby Died

The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Murl Snyder died at their home Tuesday, November 11th, aged two months. The funeral services were held yesterday at the home, conducted by Rev. Fletcher of the Baptist church. Interment was in the Bedford cemetery.

[Snyder, Helen Louise]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday      November 20, 1924      [p. 1]

At Rest---Helen Louise

Infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Merle Snyder passed away at her home near East Mission, November 11th, 1924, aged 2 months and 2 days. She leaves to mourn her loss her mother, father, two grandmothers and one grandfather, three aunts, four uncles, besides her cousins and a host of friends. Jesus said, Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven

The funeral was held at the home by Rev. Fletcher and interment made in Fairview cemetery.

[Snyder, Robert]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday     August 6, 1925      [p. 1]

Snyder Infant Passed Away

Robert, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Merle Snyder, was born July 24th 1925, and was called home July 24th, 1925. Hi infant sister preceded him November 11th, 1924.

Jesus said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.”

Short services were held at Fairview cemetery, conducted by Rev. G. T. Roberts. 
[The same notice was published in the Bedford Times-Republican, August 6, 1925, page 4.]

[Snyder, Robert Franklin]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      September 9, 1954    [p. 1]

R. F. Snyder Died Here Friday

R. F. Snyder, a resident of Bedford and community all of his life, died in Bedford, September 3.

Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Sunday afternoon conducted by Rev. Fred H. Cowles. The body was placed in the mausoleum in Fairview cemetery.

Robert Franklin Snyder, son of William and Mary Snyder, was born in Taylor County, Iowa, May 13, 1863, and died at the age of 91 years, three months, 20 days.

On April 9, 1884 he married Sarah [Jane] Woods and to them three children were born.

He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Tom Croy of Bedford, Mrs. Fred Freeman of Omaha; and one son, Merle Snyder of Bedford. Also by eight grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, one sister, one half-sister, two grandchildren, and his wife, who died October 16, 1950.

For many years Mr. and Mrs. Snyder made their home on a farm east of Bedford, moving into town eight or nine years ago.

While on the farm they were faithful workers in the East Mission Baptist church. After moving into town, they worked in the First Baptist church, where they were members.

[Snyder, Ruby Trumbo]

Bedford Times-Press

Wednesday      September 15, 1993

RUBY SNYDER

 Funeral services for Ruby Snyder were held Tuesday, Sept. 7, 1993 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery. Bedford.

Ruby     Snyder    was    born October 20, 1903 in Pottawattamie County, Iowa, the youngest child of Thomas L. [yman] L. Trumbo   and   Emma   Florence Curry Trumbo. She passed away September 4, 1993 at Clearview Nursing Home. Mt. Ayr. Iowa, at the age of 89 years, 10 months, 15 days.  

She was married to Frank Merle Snyder October 20, 1922. To this union was born five children: Helen Louise and Robert who died in infancy; Lois Jean Haidsiak and Mary Lou Dukes of Bedford and Richard Lee of Arvada, Colo, who survive.

At the age of 16 she united with the First Baptist Church of Bedford.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Merle in 1968 and one son-in-law, Max Haidsiak: five brothers, Clay, Walt, William, Paul, and Carl; one sister, Pearl; two grandchildren, Tony Ray Snyder and Sarah McKee; two great grandchildren. David Haidsiak and Michael Paul Goudie.

She is survived by her daughters Lois and Mary Lou and husband Rex; her son Richard and wife Phyllis; 21 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren; four nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother.

[Wilcox, Harry Earl]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday      September 3, 1931     p. 4

Harry Wilcox

Mrs. Pete Shum received word Monday night of the sudden death of her brother, Harry [Earl] Wilcox, which occurred in Des Moines about 11 o’clock that evening. Mr. Wilcox was a traveling salesman for the Herring Motor Company, and he, in company with his wife, were in Des Moines attending a convention. He was 38 years of age. Mrs. Wilcox was formerly Miss Olive Miller of Bedford. Funeral services were held at the Pruitt Funeral Home in Clarinda this afternoon and interment was made in the Fairview cemetery at Bedford.

[Wolfe, Myrtle Woods Graves]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday      December 2, 1948     [p. 1]

Former Resident Dies IN Des Moines

Mrs. George Wolfe of Des Moines died there Sunday, November 28. The funeral services were held in Des Moines Tuesday and the body was brought to Bedford that afternoon, where graveside services were held in the Fairview cemetery.

Mrs. Wolfe was a niece of Mrs. R. [obert] F. [ranklin] Snyder and will be remembered in Bedford as Miss Myrtle Woods.

Mr. and Mrs. Merle Snyder and Richard, Mr. and Mrs. T. O. Croy attended the services and accompanied the body to Bedford.