Bernice M. Cheslak, 91, of Omaha, Neb., born in Carroll, Iowa, died Sunday, July 30, 2017.

The family received friends on Thursday, August 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Bel Air Chapel, 12100 W. Center Rd. in Omaha, with a Wake Service following at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Friday, August 4 at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 S. 86th St., Omaha. Interment, St. John Cemetery in Bellevue.

Preceded her in death was her husband, Thomas J. Cheslak, Jr. and daughter, Helen Jo Boylan.  She is survived by son, Thomas Cheslak, III and daughter, Susan Cheslak both of Omaha; son-in-law, Ray Boylan; two grandchildren, Luke Boylan (Jennifer) and Kimberly Farris (Dan); great-granddaughter, Norha Jane Farris; sister, Margaret Anne Thornton; nieces and nephews.

Arrangements by Heafey Hoffmann Dworak Cutler, Bel Air Chapel, 12100 W. Center Rd., Omaha, NE 68144. 402-391-3900, www.heafeyheafey.com.

Rita Rhoades, 88, of Jefferson died Sunday, July 30, 2017 from complications of MS.

Mass of the Christian burial was held Friday, August 4, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson with Msgr. Kevin McCoy officiating. Interment was made in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Jefferson. Musical selections were sung by Amy Rosters and Rachael Rhoades with Lois Last as organist. Catholic Daughters of America Rosary was prayed on Thursday evening followed by a Vigil for the deceased at Brown Funeral Home in Jefferson, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Kirk Setzer, David Dunne, Bill Dunne, Bob Stream, Jonathan Smith and Steve Walker. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Rita’s grandchildren: Monica Rhoades, Sarah Casados, Melanie Sheafer, Laura Samnadda, Christian Setzer, Seth Rhoades, Rachael Rhoades, Lindsey Ante and Lynette Bond.

Rita Clare Minnihan Rhoades was born June 26, 1929, the daughter of James Arthur Minnihan and Helen Clare Shaw Minnihan. She grew up on the ancestral farm near Jefferson, Iowa and attended country schools in Bristol Township and later graduated from Jefferson High School in 1947.

Rita attended Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for one year and then worked as a bookkeeper at Monthei Implement in Jefferson. She met Robert (Bob) Rhoades at a youth center dance in 1947 just as he returned from military service. They married November 12, 1949 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Jefferson. In Rita’s world family always came first as they had six children in just four and a half years, four sons and two daughters. Diapers were a constant scene on the clothesline. She spent many hours attending her children’s extra-curricular activities and even found time to be a Cub Scout Leader. As a life-long member of St. Joseph’s parish, she laundered and starched altar linens for many years. Faith was important to Rita which she shared with her family.

She worked as the office manager in the family business, Rhoades Plumbing and Heating, over thirty years. A second career was working together with Bob in their own furniture refinishing business.

In November 2013, Rita and Bob made their home at The Gardens Assisted Living and then later Rita moved to Greene County Medical Center Long Term Care Facility. One of her last accomplishments was being “Chief Information Officer,” orchestrating family affairs on her cell phone and keeping a watchful eye over Long Term Care residents and staff. Her sister-in-law, Peggy Dunne, was her faithful roommate and friend.

Rita was known for her sense of humor, sometimes reveling in being a bit unconventional, but always thinking of others. Her hands were actively engaged in a lifetime of helping and caring for family and friends. Even with the progressive symptoms of MS over the last fifteen years, she remained positive and was fiercely independent in spite of her physical limitations, facing her illness with grace and dignity. Her mantra was “There is always, always, ALWAYS SOMETHING to be thankful for.”  

Baking chocolate cakes from scratch was one of her specialties and if you came to visit the Rhoades’ home, you were sure to enjoy a piece of cake (and sometimes, seconds). Rita was an avid seamstress and quilter and innumerable family and friends were recipients of her creative gifts. Rita even made most of the family clothing through the years. Rita faced the many patterns of her life with grace, beauty and laughter and it was indeed a life quilted with love.

Those who mourn her passing are her husband, Bob Rhoades of Jefferson; children: Michael (Mona) Rhoades of The Villages, Fla., Jerry (Kathy) Rhoades of Alameda, Calif., Theresa Ritland of Ames, Linda (Kirk) Setzer of Amana and Patrick (Jane) Rhoades of Des Moines; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Jerry Minnihan of St. Louis, Mo. and daughter-in-law, Kathy Rhoades of Des Moines. Preceding her in death in her immediate family are her parents; infant brother, Thomas Eugene Minnihan and son, Joseph L. Rhoades, MD.

Memorials may be sent to the Upper Midwest Chapter of Multiple Sclerosis Society, 200 12th Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55415.

Brown Funeral Home, Jefferson.

Rita McDermott Reis, 91, of Perry, Iowa, formerly of Jefferson, died Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at the Rowley Memorial Masonic Home in Perry. Lewy Body Disease contributed to her failing health.

Mass of the Resurrection was held Friday, July 28, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson, Iowa with Fr. Jeff Schleisman as celebrant. Wayne Ahern gave the reading. Gift bearers were Rachel Ahern, Sarah Goodchild and Megan Romens. Servers were Donivan Tighe and Sullivan Tighe. The music was by Lois Last and Amy Roberts. Serving as casket bearers were Ryan Tighe, David Tighe, Patrick McDermott, Matt Dirkx, Chris Dirkx, Michael Dirkx, Megan Romens, Kacie Purl, Sarah Goodchild, Rachel Ahern and Ethan Ahern. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Greene County, Iowa.

Rita (McDermott) Reis was born October 10, 1925 in Bayard, Iowa to Arthur and Julia (Watts) Moylan. Rita graduated from Bayard High School and attended St. Mary’s College in Omaha for two years. Following college, Rita travelled to California to work and live with her brother, John, for a short time. She returned to Iowa where she worked in Des Moines, Jefferson, and for the last 20 years of her career, Perry at Oscar Mayer before retiring in 1989.

Rita married John “Art” McDermott on March 29, 1948. To this union five children were born: Mary, Monica, Margaret, Mark and Michele. They were married for 41 years. During their last years together, Rita was caretaker as Art’s health failed. Together they enjoyed camping and their grandchildren who visited often.

Following Art’s death in 1990, Rita married Laverne Reis and continued to enjoy camping with Good Sam’s Camp Club with their many friends. They lived in Greenfield where Rita was active in St. John’s Catholic Church.

After Laverne passed away, Rita moved to Jefferson residing at the Gardens Assisted Living. As a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Jefferson for many years, Rita attended mass regularly.  Her faith was an important part of her life.

Crafting, cross-stitch, knitting, sewing, quilting – Rita could do it all. Her family has been the recipient of many beautiful quilts and afghans. Chocolate chip cookies were a staple at Rita’s house. She passed her baking skills and love of chocolate on to her family as well.

Survivors include five children: Mary (Bill) Tighe of Bagley, Monica (LaVern) Dirkx of Carroll, Margaret Knosby of Perry, Mark (Kristy) McDermott of Jamaica and Michele (Wayne) Ahern of Solon, Iowa; 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Kathleen (Tom) Ferguson of Greensboro, N.C.; many other relatives and friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husbands, John Arthur McDermott and LaVerne Reis; brother, John Moylan; sisters, Regina Ryan and Madonna Hagen; granddaughter, Molly Ahern and son-in-law, Tim Knosby.

The family requests memorials be made to HCI Hospice Care Services, 610 10th Street, Perry, IA 50220.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, Jefferson. 515-386-2171.

Ethel J. (Joan) Canady, 86, of Solon, Iowa died peacefully surrounded by family Sunday July 23, 2017 at Briarwood Care Facility in Iowa City.

A Service of Remembrance was held Saturday, July 29. 2017 at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson, Iowa with Rev. Julie Poulsen officiating. Sheryl Sloan was the organist and David Petersen was the soloist. The music played was “The Old Rugged Cross,” “Just As I Am” and “The Lord’s Prayer.” Larry Turner was the honorary bearer. Casket bearers were John Canady, Franklin Canady, Adam Canady, James North, Todd Turner and Douglas Turner. Interment was at Jefferson Cemetery in Jefferson.

Joan was born July 25, 1930 in Red Oak, Iowa the seventh child of Edward Grant and Ethel Ann Boan.

​After high school, Joan graduated Nebraska Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Omaha as a Registered Nurse. During her training, she secretly married Dr. George Canady July 1, 1949 in Hiawatha, Kansas before his deployment in the Navy to Korea. During that time nurses in training were not allowed to be married.

After George’s military service ended, she helped him set up his medical practice in Jefferson, Iowa where she worked with him for many years and together they raised their son, John.

Joan was involved in the Campfire Girls and Boy Scouts as a leader and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Jefferson. Joan was also a 50 plus year member of the Chapter CZ PEO of Jefferson. An avid golfer, she once carded a hole in one.

After the death of her husband of 59 years she moved to Solon to be closer to family.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George and her six siblings: Percy Boan, Juanita Stewart, Viola Turner, Pauline DePauw, Burnett Boan and Douglas Boan.

She is survived by her son, Dr. John ( Laurie) Canady of Iowa City; her grandsons, Frank Canady of Iowa City and Adam Canady of Mountain View, California; sister-in-law, Maxine Boan and numerous nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Webb House or the Greene County Community Foundation both in Jefferson, Iowa.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, www.sliningerschroeder.com.

Morris “Hap” Ford, 101, of Jefferson died Monday, July 31, 2017 at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson, Iowa.

A service of remembrance was held Saturday, August 5 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, Iowa with Bruce Webster of Church of Christ officiating. The music played was “Heaven Got Another Angel” by Gorden Garner, “Jealous Of The Angels” by Donna Taggert and “Take Me Out To The Ball Game.” Honorary casket bearers were Larry Ford Jr., Mark Wright, Mark Ott and Chris Deason. Casket bearers were Cory Ott, Chad Ott, Isaiah Deason, Nick Laubscher, Chase Collins and Heath Enns. Interment was at Union Cemetery in Guthrie Center, Iowa with military honors given by Iowa Army National Guard Honor Guard.

Morris “Hap” William Ford, was born January 16, 1916 to Verner and Lois (Harrington) Ford in rural Guthrie County. Hap attended Seely School No. 6 until graduation and then went to work helping on his father’s farm. When his father quit farming, he began driving a truck for Gerald Laughery. He continued working for Laughery until he entered the service. He was medically discharged from the service and returned to Guthrie Center where he worked at Randolph Creamery. He later worked at Rural Electric Cooperative from which he retired in 1981.

On February 1, 1938, Hap married Vietta “Dolly” Irene Porter. They were the parents of one son, Larry.

Hap was an avid sports fan. He and Dolly enjoyed attending high school sporting events - holding girls state basketball tickets for more than twenty years, cheering on their local athletes and faithfully following their grandchildren’s sports teams around the state. He was also a loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. They were active members of the Coon Valley Archery Club as well.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dolly; two brothers and a sister.

Hap is survived by his son, Larry; granddaughters: Michele (Mark) Ott, Janelle (Mark) Wright and Lori (Chris) Deason; grandson, Larry (Teresa) Ford Jr.; nine great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, www.sliningerschroeder.com.

Marcella Marie Wilson, 83, of Jefferson, Iowa, passed away from cancer at 10:28 a.m. on July 26th, 2017 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa.

Marcella was born on August 7, 1933 in Minburn, Iowa. While attending Perry High School she met her future husband, Neil Wilson, of Woodward, Iowa. They were married in 1952. They moved to Jefferson a few years later to pursue job opportunities.

Marcella was preceded in death by her husband, Haskell Neil Wilson; father, Mason Faber; mother, Edna Gottschalk; brothers, Merle and Floyd Faber; sisters, Margaret Faber and Betty Schall of Des Moines, Iowa; and son-in-law, Eugene ‘Gene’ Ritchie. She is survived by her brother, Delbert (Tina) Faber of Des Moines; son, Michael (Kris) Wilson of Ames, Iowa; daughter, Michele Ritchie of The Villages, Fla.; grandchildren: Dustin (Erin) Ritchie of Baton Rouge, La., Daniel Ritchie of San Diego, Calif., Douglas (Jordan) Ritchie of Savannah, Ga., Nathaniel ‘Nate’ Wilson and Mattea Wilson of Ames; great-grandchild, Harper Lynn Ritchie of Savannah; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Marcella worked in retail businesses, along with her husband, most of her life. Together they owned two Jefferson businesses, the local Super Valu grocery store and the Trading Post. Later in life, she drove a bus for the Western Iowa Transit System (WITS).

Marcella loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchild, Harper Lynn. She also enjoyed wintering in Panama City Beach, Fla., having lunch with friends at Congregate Meals, afternoon coffee with friends at Dairy Queen and traveling to Perry to lunch with classmates at McCreary Community Center or Burger King. She was also an avid book reader, who enjoyed playing cards and putting jigsaw puzzles together.

According to Marcella’s wishes, she was cremated, and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Congregate Meals, 401 W Greenewood Rd, Jefferson, IA 50129 or Jefferson Public Library, 200 West Lincolnway, Jefferson, IA 50129.

Nick Schirmbeck died August 3, 2017 at his residence in Jefferson, Iowa at the age of 50 years, 6 months and 9 days.

Visitation was held Sunday, August 6 at Hastings Funeral Home in Jefferson with his family present from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral services were held Monday, August 7 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Words of Comfort were given by Pastor Devin Wolters from First Baptist Church in Jefferson. Honorary casket bearers were Al Smits, Jeff Schirmbeck, John Schirmbeck, James Allbee, Ben Ayala, John Beck and Scott Halligan. Casket bearers were Roger Lowe, Jay White, Anthony Peterson, Dan Burkhardt, Brandon Schirmbeck and Matt Schroeder. Soloist, Chassidy Kendall, sang “Amazing Grace,” “My Chains are Gone” and “Dancing in the Sky.” Recorded music “Seasons in the Sun” by Terry Jacks was also played. Interment was in Scranton Township Cemetery in Scranton. Lunch and a time of fellowship was held at the Scranton School following the service at the cemetery.

Nicholas Ray Schirmbeck, son of Adolph and Lavern Schirmbeck, was born January 26, 1967 in Jefferson, Iowa. Nick spent the majority of his life living in Jefferson, graduating from Jefferson High School in 1985. He attended trade school in Des Moines for telephone lines communication. Nick worked for Cliff Thompson, Oscar Mayer, and for the past fourteen years, Pella Windows.

When he was a child, he enjoyed playing baseball. His hobbies included fishing, refinishing furniture, remodeling and doing construction. He also enjoyed gardening and helping his neighbors. He was a fan of the Chicago White Sox and the Minnesota Vikings.

Nicholas was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Lavern Schirmbeck; sisters, Cindy Jo and Elaine Garnett; great niece, Rachel Gross and great nephew, Gerald Anderson.  

He is survived and lovingly remembered by his granddaughter, Raelyn; brother, Dennis (Gail) Blum of Jefferson; half brothers: Larry (Virginia) Schirmbeck of Baltimore, Md., Lonnie (Linda) Schirmbeck of Missouri, Delbert (Debbie) Cox of Marshall, Minn. and Leo Cox of Madison, Wis.; sister, Pam Hamilton of Jefferson; half sister, Fran Satterlee of Carroll; brother-in-law, Roger (Lisa) Garnett of Jefferson; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Memorials in his name may be sent to Hastings Funeral Home, Box 204, Perry, Iowa 50220.

Hastings Funeral Home, www.hastingsfh.com, 515-386-8181.

Robert Matheson, 90, of Sun Prairie, Wis., died Saturday, August 12, 2017 at the New Perspective Senior Living in Sun Prairie.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 17, at Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown. Visitation was held one hour prior to the services.

Robert was born April 11, 1927 in Marshalltown, Iowa to Thompson and Anna (Hauschildt) Matheson. He graduated from Green Mountain High School in 1945. He joined the US Navy and served our country honorably from May 14, 1945 until August 1, 1946 in WWII as part of the “Greatest Generation.”

He married Betty Kjormoe in 1949 to which two children were born, Douglas and Connie. They were later divorced. On June 29, 1978 he was united in marriage to Donna M. (Schmidt) Venenga in Reinbeck, Iowa. They moved to Jefferson, Iowa where he worked as commercial manager for Iowa Electric & Power Company until retiring in 1990.

His memberships include Jefferson Elks Lodge, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, El Kahir Shrine, Order of Eastern Star and United Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing cards and golfing and enjoyed the winter months in Arizona with Donna.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Matheson; daughter, Connie (Bill) Smith; stepchildren, Janelle (Randy) LaBounty and Jay (Pam) Venenga; grandchildren: Robert Smith, Christopher (Bailey) Smith, Amber Matheson, Brad Venenga, Jadi Leisen, Shelby Venenga, Tyler Venenga, Leslie (Peter) Merzian, Michelle LaBounty and Robyn LaBounty; great grandchildren: Landon and Lawson Leyendecker, Neiko and Krislynn Dowling and Haiden and Adyson Leisen.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Douglas Matheson and granddaughter, Crystal Leyendecker.

Memorials may be directed to Children’s Shriners Hospital in his memory. For condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com, 641-844-1234.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown.

Drew Seaman, 66, of Benton Harbor, Michigan passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday, August 8, 2017. The cause of death was an apparent heart attack.

Visitation was held Friday, August 11 from 6-8 p.m. at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home (http://www.starks-menchinger.com) at 2650 Niles, St. Joseph, MI. A celebration of life service was held at 3 p.m. Saturday, August 12 at the funeral home.

Drew was born in Jefferson and moved to Churdan in September of 1954 when his parents, Dick and Edna Seaman, purchased the Reading Hardware store. Drew grew up in the store and became quite handy. He played every sport available - baseball, basketball, track and football. He was on the summer 1968 Paton-Churdan baseball team that went to the state tournament.

Through his dad’s connections at the store, he got on the crew that worked to convert Churdan’s phone system from “Operator” to rotary dial. He began by digging ditches and eventually spliced cable.  He worked summers for the crew going wherever the crew was from 1970 through 1974, earning money to pay for college and law school.

He graduated from Paton-Churdan in 1969. Drew graduated from Iowa State in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. He attended law school at Washington University in St. Louis and graduated in 1976. He then began working at a law firm in St. Joseph, Michigan and was admitted to the bar in November 1976.

In 1984, he and two colleagues began their own law firm, Straub Seaman and Allen PC. Drew’s specialty was construction litigation and design professional law. In the fall of 2009, he was named a Michigan Super-Lawyer in the area of construction litigation.

Drew officially retired on June 30, 2017 although he was still finishing up a few cases. He told his sister Diane that he was ready for the next chapter of his life.  

Drew had a gift of gab - inherited from his father. They were two men who never met a stranger.  

Drew is predeceased by his father, Dick (2001) and mother, Edna (1987) and a sister, Mary Joana who died at birth in 1949.

He is survived by his wife, Diana of Benton Harbor; daughters: Daire Seaman Bentleldjoune (Sam) of Lyon, France, Danielle Seaman (fiancee Jeff Mathews) of Chicago, Illinois and Devyn Hanko (Travis) of Coloma, Michigan; grandson, Drew Hanko; step-granddaughter, Ava Hanko and twin sister, Diane Seaman of Farmington Hills, Michigan. His hunting dogs, Derby and Leyla will also miss him.

Cards can be sent to: Diana Seaman (wife), 4374 End O Woods Dr, Benton Harbor, MI 49022; Diane Seaman (sister), 25030 Independence Drive, Apt 11202, Farmington Hills, MI 48335.

Sheila Runkle, 66, of Jefferson, died Sunday, August 13, 2017.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 19 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson with Rev. Linden Wendzel of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating. Musical selections will be “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.” Honorary bearers will be Earl Williams and her many beloved co-workers. Casket bearers will be her loving surgery team: Brenda Luther, Heather Shipley, Christie Pille, Ashley Wells, Janelle Cates and Tina McCollum. A graveside committal service will take place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, August 19 at Calhoun Cemetery in Missouri Valley, Iowa with Rev. Linden Wendzel presiding. Honorary bearers will be Robert Books, J.B. Pearce, and too many cousins to name. Casket bearers will be Connie Heitl, Nathan Bylander, Arland Kuel, Gary Kuel, Dennis Jahn and Randy Mohr.

Sheila Kay Runkle was born December 21, 1950 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. She was the daughter of Donald and Phyllis (Mohr) Runkle.

Sheila grew up in Missouri Valley, where she was a member of First Lutheran Church. While living in Dunlap, she was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Dow City. Sheila graduated from Dunlap Community School in 1969, and attended Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, graduating with a degree as an Operating Room Technician.

On September 7, 1971 Sheila began her career at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson. She worked in the surgery department as a surgery tech and ordered supplies for the surgery department for 46 years until her death. One of her many duties included sterilizing instruments for the hospital. In addition to her work, Sheila enjoyed helping anybody and everybody she could. She liked fishing and crocheting. In Jefferson, she attended Trinity Lutheran Church.

Sheila passed away August 13, 2017 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines following a tragic fall at her home.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Phyllis and Don Runkle; paternal grandparents, Grover and Blanche Runkle; and maternal grandparents, Fred and Anna Mohr.

Survivors include her brother, Dayle Runkle; daughter, Connie Heitl (Nathan Bylander); son, Robert Books; and grandchildren: Piper, Tatum and Tanner.  

Sheila will be greatly missed by her family, friends and her many co-workers from Greene County Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials in Sheila’s name to Greene County Medical Center, 1000 West Lincoln Way, Jefferson, IA.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, Jefferson.

Janice Tilley, daughter of Joseph and Libbie (Korsa) Urban, was born September 1, 1930 at home in Elkhorn Township in Webster County, Iowa. She passed from this life August 14, 2017 at her home in Churdan, Iowa. She lived her life to the age of 86 years, 11 months and 13 days.

Funeral services were held Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Churdan United Methodist Church with Rev. David Arulnathan officiating. Burial was made in the Highland Township Cemetery in Churdan. Serving as pianist was Lori Anderson. Soloists, Doyle Carlson and Laura Minnihan, sang the musical selections “On Eagle’s Wings,” “The Lost Chord” and “Amazing Grace.” Serving as casket bearers were her grandchildren: Anneliese Detwiler, Jennifer Weeks, John Minnihan, Shea Minnihan, Kelly Minnihan, Mary Jo Koch, Lori Judge,  Kimberly Stephenson, Tami Tilley, Stacy Hardaway, Jacque Cunningham, Travis Tilley and Megan Walker.

Janice was educated at Tapper No. 7 Country School and Otho High School. Until she started kindergarten, she spoke only Bohemian. Since a small child, she shared her musical talents with family, friends and communities.

On October 29, 1947, Janice Urban was united in marriage to Raymond A. Tilley at the Methodist Church Parsonage in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Four children were born to this union. Raymond and Janice lived and farmed east of Churdan for 45 years and moved to their present home in Churdan in 1993. Raymond passed away October 31, 1995 and Janice continued to make her home in Churdan until her death.

Janice was an active member of the Churdan United Methodist Church, a member of the United Methodist Women, serving as chairman of the funeral and beef dinner committees for many years, and served as organist for both the Churdan and Paton Methodist Churches. Janice was a past member of the Paton-Churdan Activities and Music Boosters, a member of the Bohemian Hall, played drums with the Town and Country Band and was an active volunteer of the Churdan Public Library.

Janice especially enjoyed gardening, music, sewing and cooking for family. Holidays found her cooking for up to 60 people. She rarely missed activities involving her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. She loved taking an active part in the farming operation, including driving tractors and trucks. She also enjoyed being an active member of her church serving God wherever needed.

Janice is survived by her four children: Marilyn (Larry) Detwiler of Des Moines, Phyllis (Mike) Minnihan of Churdan, Dennis (Marilyn) Tilley of Churdan and David (Carman) Tilley of Jefferson; 13 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Josephine (Leonard) Jondle of Promise City, Iowa. Those who preceded her in death were her parents; husband; brother, Eugene Urban; and sisters, Frances Volf and twin sister, Jenny Urban.

The Brown Funeral Home of Churdan assisted the family.

Paul C. Schmitt, son of John and Mary (Grace) Schmitt, was born October 10, 1928 in Waterloo, Iowa and departed this life August 16, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. He lived his life to the age of 88 years, 10 months and 6 days.

Mass of the Christian burial was held Saturday, August 19, 2017 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church in Churdan with Father Lynn Bruch officiating. Burial was made in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Cedar Township, west of Churdan. Serving as organist was Lois Last and cantor was Greg Carey with the St. Columbkille choir. Military rites were conducted by the Churdan American Legion with “Taps” being played by Paul’s nephew, Tom Ward. Serving as casket bearers were Stephen Schmitt, Erik Schmitt, Lukas Schmitt, Patrik Schmitt, Bryce Schmitt, Tom Sickels, Zach Netz and Tony Hubbard. Honorary bearers were Kelly Schmitt, Brittany Sickels, Stacey Netz, Britni Hubbard, Morgan Stipe, Devan Loew and Taylor Loew.

Paul started school in Marble Rock, Iowa and after his parents moved near Paton, he attended Dawson Country School. His parents then moved to a farm near Adaza and Paul graduated from Lohrville High School in 1946. Paul farmed with his father until he entered the U.S. Army. He served in Korea and was awarded the Korean Service Medal and four Bronze Stars. He was discharged from the service in 1952 and returned to work with his father.

On August 21, 1954, Paul Schmitt was united in marriage to Patricia Richtsmeier at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wesley, Iowa. Six children were born to this union. After their marriage, Paul started farming on his own and presently resides on a Century Farm which has been in the Grace family since 1895. Paul was a well-respected farmer who enjoyed farming with his sons.

Paul was a member of St. Columbkille and St. Patrick Catholic Churches.

Paul is survived by his wife, Pat; daughter, Kathleen Schmitt of Carroll; five sons: Charles (Linda) of Lohrville, Anthony (Marty) of Des Moines, Kenneth (Angie) of Carroll, William (Janelle) of Alleman and Steven (Lisa) of Minneapolis, Minn.; 12 grandchildren: Kelly Schmitt, Brittany Sickels, Stacey Netz, Stephen Schmitt, Britni Hubbard, Bryce Schmitt, Morgan Stipe, Devan Loew, Taylor Loew, Erik Schmitt, Lukas Schmitt and Patrik Schmitt; 9 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Helen Babcock of Sioux Rapids, Iowa and Theresa Ward of Papillion, Neb. He was preceded in death by his parents.           

The Brown Funeral Home of Churdan assisted the family.

Margene Miller was born June 12, 1922  in Grand Junction, Iowa and passed away August 15, 2017 at age 95 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines after a brief illness.

A celebration of life was held Saturday, August 19 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, Iowa with Minister, Matt Glawe of Lubbock, Texas officiating. The musical selections were “Under His Wings” and “God Will Take Care of You” accompanied by Mary Ann Haver. Casket bearers were Matt Minnihan, Dennis Ostrander, David Rasmussen, Kris Hoskins, Dave Wright and Roger Wright. Honorary bearers were her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and  great-great-grandchildren: Kevin Minnihan, Tracey Durham, Alan Durham, Kara Minnihan, Debra Harrington, Dwayne Harrington, Amanda Triemstra, Dan Triemstra, Ashley Meads, Matthew Meads, Kate Minnihan, Matthew Harrington, Sage Minnihan, Ethan Triemstra and Reagan Meads. A doxology was sung by Rob Clause. Interment was at Jefferson Cemetery in Jefferson.

Margene Miller was preceded in death by her husband, Armen Miller; parents, A.R. and Mary Clause; sisters: Marietta, Elizabeth and Ramona; brothers: Gerald, Robert and Roger. She is survived by her daughter, Claudia (Bruce) Liljegren of Jefferson; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Dena Clause and Dorothy Clause, both of Jefferson; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Armen and Margene were united in marriage November 17, 1944. They moved to Wilmington, Delaware after their marriage and lived there until Armen was discharged from the Air Force. They then moved to Greene County to start farming. They attended the Farlin Church of Christ until it closed. They then placed their membership with the Carroll Church of Christ.

Vacationing every year was important to them. They made several trips to Colorado, Mexico and Hawaii. One of their very special adventures was traveling to Africa. Margene and Armen also enjoyed antiquing which led her to giving talks about her various collections.

After Armen’s death in 1995, Margene remained on the farm before moving to Federal Way, Washington to live with her daughter, Claudia and son-in-law, Bruce Liljegren. She lived in Washington and was a member of the Federal Way Church of Christ for seven years. In October of 2011, Margene returned to Jefferson to live out her remaining years at The Gardens and became a member of the Ogden Church of Christ. She lived her life with a strong faith in the Lord and trusted in Him for everything.

Margene was an active member of the Unity Club, Rebecca’s and Jefferson Garden Club. She judged flower arranging completions and did flowers for weddings. She was a volunteer member of the Hospital Auxiliary for 35 years. She taught Sunday school for 50 years and was a 4-H Leader for 20 years. She served on the Cancer Board and New Hope Village Board.

Margene loved having her family around.   Her friends were precious to her and she enjoyed getting to know new people, always sharing a joke with those around her. She was also an avid reader, followed many sports, especially NASCAR and college basketball, and loved learning.   

Memorials are suggested for the Ogden Church of Christ, The Greene County Hospital Auxiliary and the Iowa 4-H Foundation.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home assisted the family.

Robert Custer,77, of Jefferson died Saturday, August 26, 2017 with his family by his side at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Carroll, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 1 at Central Christian Church in Jefferson. Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be Thursday, August 31 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date at Dawson Township Cemetery in Greene County, Iowa.    

Robert Wray Custer was born January 23, 1940 in Jefferson, Iowa to Wray Joseph Custer and Nina Blanche Smith Custer. Bob grew up in Greene County, Iowa and attended country school in Bristol Township until the 6th grade and then he attended school in Jefferson. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1958.

After the death of Bob’s father, he took over the family farm. He raised crops and also cows and sheep. Farming, his dogs and his horses were really important to Bob.

In 1957, Bob was united in marriage to Sharon Coellner. Three children were born to this union: Stephen, Sheryl and Laura Jean. In 1962, Bob was united in marriage to Marilyn Lee. Three children were born to this union: Jeff, Cindy and Cherie. In 1972, Bob was united in marriage to Jessie Godwin Peterson. They expanded their family with Jessie’s children: Debora, David and Rebecca Peterson.

Bob loved his country and in February of 1957, he enlisted in the Army National Guard. He was part of the 234th Signal Battalion out of Jefferson, Iowa. Bob served until he was Honorably Discharged in 1965. In September of 1973, Bob reenlisted in the Army National Guard and was Honorably Discharged in 1974.

In his earlier years, Bob was a member of a Saddle Club and loved to go trail riding with his two favorite horses, Diablo and Silver. He also enjoyed fishing and playing cards and often hosted card parties out on the farm. Bob loved to snowmobile and was a member of the local snowmobile club. He was also active in the State Snowmobile Association. Bob sold and installed CB radios for several years and talked with people all over the country on those radios.  

Bob and Jessie established and grew an active Amway business, traveling in many states meeting many new friends. One of the highlights of this business was time spent in the Bahamas.

Bob had a love for children. He was involved with activities that involved being around and teaching kids. He was a 4-H leader for many years and never missed a day at the County Fair. He participated in the 4H Producer Class, which allowed him to donate a calf to a youth and work with them as they raised it and eventually showed it in the County Fair. He also umpired Little League for a few years. Through the years, Father’s Days would often find Bob and family headed for Okoboji for their annual family reunion. Bob loved spending time with his grandchildren when they would visit and often playing chase games usually ending up in a tickle match.

For several years, Bob and Jessie applied anhydrous ammonia all over the county in the spring, often starting at dark and ending at dark. Then turned their attention to their own farming operation.

Bob was a member of the Central Christian Church his entire life. He served as board chairman and for many years as a deacon. He also served on many committees.  

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Wray and Nina; grandsons, Dimitrios Turnas and Andrew Paul Peterson; his sister and brother-in-law, Virgil and Gladys Kinnan; and his brother, Billy Custer. He is survived by his wife, Jessie Custer of Jefferson; his children: Stephen (Vicki) Custer of Reeds Spring, Mo., Sheryl (Doug) Zimmerman of Carroll, Laura Jean (Jeff) Wine of Lake City, Jeff (Lois) Custer of Jefferson, Cindy (J.R.) Johnson of Lamar, Mo. and Cherie (David) Moore of Grand Island, Fla.; step-children: Debora (Joe) Bynum of Oklahoma City, Okla., David Peterson of Jefferson and Becca Johnson of Knoxville, Tenn.; 18 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.

Memorials are suggested to Central Christian Church or St. Anthony’s Hospice and may be left Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.sliningerschroeder.com.

Nancy Morris, 66, of Jefferson passed away on September 1, 2017 after a valiant fight against terminal cancer.

A Celebration of Life service was held Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson with Dr. David Ohrt officiating. Deenie Schuchert gave the eulogy. The recorded music played was “Buffalo March” by Lonesome Dove, “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong and “Circle of Life” by Elton John. A gathering for family and friends followed the service at the Jefferson Community Golf Course. Burial will take place at a later date at the Jefferson Cemetery in Jefferson, Iowa.  

Nancy D’Ann Morris was born February 23, 1951 to Kenneth and Helen Jean Morris, making a dramatic entrance as the family was in the middle of a move from Stringtown, Iowa to Clearfield, Iowa on that very day. Nancy grew up in Clearfield alongside three siblings, Lewis, Janie and Todd. She was a devoted daughter, conservative high school cheerleader (think knee-length skirt, Jackie-O style) and moved to the Windy City in 1969, after marrying Terry Brown of Clearfield. In Chicago, Nancy worked as a dental assistant until the couple moved to Jefferson, Iowa where they raised four sons: Brandon, Dominic, Tristan and Rhett.

In between endless loads of laundry and cooking elaborate meals, Nancy enjoyed starting collections - of everything. From Precious Moments, to Beanie Babies to Snow Village, whatever was the “it” item of the time, Nancy started a collection. There are now tubs upon tubs of stuff her sons get to sort through since she’s passed but don’t worry, if you knew Nancy, you know she already instructed them on how she wanted it done.

Many years of family memories were made at the Lake of the Ozarks where Trivial Pursuit matches, occasional tattoos, porch karaoke and coving out in the boat reigned supreme for over 15 years.

Later in life, Nancy fell in love all over again with her seven grandchildren. Aside from being “Gram,” her other passions included quilting, chocolate, gardening, ice cream, bossing others around, traveling (while complaining how much she hated packing), and she adored shamrocks, anything green and the movie, Lonesome Dove.

Nancy always had a great sense of humor and was always making other laugh. That’s the spirit this woman, mother, daughter, sister, crazy fun aunt and loyal friend to countless people sprinkled throughout her life.

Survivors include sons: Brandon Morris (Angela) Brown of Oskaloosa, Kan., Dominic Drew Brown (and special friend Maryna Jennings) of Cedar Falls, Tristan Marshall (Jenni) Brown of Roswell, Ga., Rhett Matthew Brown of Jefferson; seven grandchildren: Jacob McCowan, Alivia Lynn, Mara Jo, Ella Marie, Becca Kathryn, Wilson Drew and MacKenna Lynn; three siblings: Lewis, Janie and Todd; extended family members and friends that are all raising a few middle fingers to cancer that tends to steal joy.

Memorials are suggested to the Sierra Community Theatre.  Online condolences may be left at www.sliningerschroeder.com.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home assisted the family.

Frances Safley, 90, of Jefferson died with her family by her side on August 31, 2017 at Regency Park Nursing & Rehab Center in Jefferson, Iowa.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 6 at Central Christian Church in Jefferson with Rev. Sheldon Henderson officiating. Honorary bearers were “Her Grandchildren” - Mike Safley, Jeff Safley, Mark Safley, Andrea Kemble, Matt Safley, Erin Drew, Jacob Safley, Stanton Safley, Sarah Borgeson, Liz Pierce, Mary Hinton and Bill Frederick. “How Great Thou Art” was performed by Matt Safley and “In The Garden” by soloist, Gary Haupert and pianist, Danille Curtis. Interment will be at a later date at Franklin Township Cemetery, Cooper, Iowa.

Frances Louise Schilling Safley was born March 16, 1927 at home in Greene County, Iowa. She was the daughter of Dewey and Grace (Harvey) Schilling. Fran graduated from Cooper High School in 1944 and attended two years of college at the University of Iowa. She married Robert D. Safley on September 8, 1946 in Jefferson, Iowa. They were married an amazing 70 years. The couple lived and farmed south east of Cooper. They became the parents of four children: Bob, Bill, Tom and Ann. In 1974, Fran and Bob moved to Jefferson.

Fran was a homemaker, mother and farm wife. She always had chocolate chip cookies and party mix on hand for her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed looking through magazines for ideas to help her children and grandchildren with 4-H projects. Fran was the head communicator for the Safley branch of the family keeping uncles, aunts and cousins informed about family activities and how they could be contacted. Fran hosted many family gatherings over the years.  

As a farm wife, Fran was a true partner. She was familiar with driving tractors. She hauled countless wagons of corn to Jefferson. She endured many flat tires without a cell phone to call for help. She operated the corn picker for several years while her husband unloaded the ear corn into the corn cribs.

She always encouraged others. Fran enjoyed spending time quilting with Bob’s sisters. She made many, many quilts and she shared her quilts with many people. Fran had created over 270 projects which included blankets, table runners and wall hangings, each of which were done with love. Fran also liked the challenge of doing stained glass work. She enjoyed family history. She loved the Cooper reunions – because she loved Cooper!

Through the years, Fran played a lot of Bridge and belonged to a bridge club in Jefferson. She enjoyed square dancing and golfing. She was a member of Central Christian Church in Jefferson. She was a member of Eastern Star, P.E.O., Culture Club and a charter member of the DOES. Fran liked looking at clouds, full moons and the recent Solar Eclipse. The favorite stars in Fran’s “galaxy” were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Fran was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, her parents and one brother. She is survived by three sons: Bob (Connie) Safley of Linden, Iowa, Bill (Holli) Safley of Peterson, Iowa and Tom (Lorna) Safley of Jefferson; a daughter, Ann (Alan) Frederick of Jefferson; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Beatrice Freeman and Betty Larson both of Jefferson and Bonnie Blough of Ariz.; other relatives and many friends.

Memorials are suggested to Jefferson Public Library, Central Christian Church or Greene County 4-H Foundation.  

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, 386-2171.

James Eldon Scott, 72, passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2017 at Casa de la Luz Hospice in Tucson Arizona, in the presence of his daughters who will miss him greatly.   
Visitation was held Saturday, September 2nd, 2017 from 9-11 a.m. at First Assembly of God Church in Jefferson, Iowa with a graveside service following at 11:30 a.m. at Grand Junction Township Cemetery.

Jim was born on January 29, 1945 in Jefferson, Iowa to C. Eldon and M. Eileen Scott and grew up on a farm in rural Dana, Iowa. Growing up, Jim was a typical farm boy who enjoyed hunting, fishing and caring for livestock on the family farm. He participated in 4H, which eventually spawned two more generations of proud 4Hers. He attended East Greene High School and graduated in 1963. During his high school career, he participated in basketball and baseball. He enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard in September 1963 and trained at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. and Ft. Sill, Okla. with the Company A 5th Battalion 2D Regiment. He was married in 1964 to Sue Thornton, and from that union came Barbara Jo (stillborn), Brenda and Becky. He worked at YW Hybrid, owned the DX Station and managed the local fertilizer plant until 1985. He was a member of the Grand Junction Jaycees and named Jaycee of the Year and served on the Grand Junction Fire Department as an EMT-A.  

Jim divorced in 1985 and moved to Tucson, Arizona where he worked for Shamrock Dairy until it closed. He volunteered for the Fire Cache to support the fire fighters battling wildfires in Arizona, which he enjoyed. While in Tucson he met Rhonda Rose and the two were married in 1987. He became step dad to “little” Rhonda, Roy, Marnie and Aaron (deceased). After the dairy closed, he worked for the Marana Unified School District as a school bus driver until he retired in 2007. After retirement, he spent a great deal of time caring for Rhonda, who passed away in 2014. He loved to tinker in his shop and welded many pieces of art including wagons, tractor seat stools, planters and metal cut-outs that he shared with family and friends. He loved his four little dogs (BB, Star, Buddy and Chopper) along with all the wildlife in his back yard (quail, hummingbirds, javelina, bobcats and coyotes). He truly enjoyed nature and teaching his daughters and grandchildren about the desert wildlife.

For all the things he collected throughout his years, his largest collection by far was his collection of friends. They came from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds and he never knew a stranger.  While he would not always verbally express his love for family or friends, he did so with his actions—always being there to help someone who needed help. For this he will be missed the most.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, C. Eldon and M. Eileen Scott; daughter, Barbara Jo Scott; wife, Rhonda Scott; and step son, Aaron Rose. He is survived by his daughters, Brenda (Greg) Gill and grandson, Alek Gill and Becky (Rod) Freeman and grandchildren - Megan McCormick, Brandon (Samantha) Schmidt and Cole Schmidt; step children: Rhonda (Wayne) Rogers and grandson, Dustin (Lacey) Rogers; Roy (Natalie) Rose and grandsons, Brandon and Garret Rose; Marnie Rose and grandson, Ryan; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Judy (Jim) Glasgow; brother, Jay (Corienne) Scott; aunt, Carol (Bud) Kyle; nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in loving memory of Jim Scott to one of two places - the hospice that took excellent care of him in his last few hours on earth, Casa de la Luz, Casa Hospice at the Hacienda, 2720 E River Rd, Bldg #6, Tucson, AZ 85718 or, due to his participation in 4H as a kid and passing that love of 4H on to his daughters and grandsons who all participated in 4H, The Iowa 4H Foundation, Extension 4H Youth Building ISU, 1259 Stange Rd, Ames, IA 50011-3630. 

John Meyer, 68, of Jefferson, died at home Saturday, September 2, 2017.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, September 11 at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson. Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be Sunday, September 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. A graveside service will be held at 4 p.m. Monday, September 11 at Silver Valley Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.  

John Walter Meyer, first-born son of Milton and Drusa Dell (Thomas) Meyer, was born on March 15th, the Ides of March, 1949 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Naming him after his grandfathers, R. Johnson Thomas and Walter Meyer, Milton and Drusa brought John home to the family’s farmhouse near Hancock, Iowa. Great-grandfather Ferdinand Meyer, who emigrated from Germany, originally bought the land, built that home, and started the family legacy where John and his siblings grew up.

Among other valuable lessons, John learned respect and love of the land from his father, and the love of music and social contacts from his mother. John played sports, played trombone in the band, participated in lots of activities and made many lifelong friends in the Oakland High School Class of 1967. He then attended Iowa State University, majoring in agriculture, playing in the ISU band and making lifelong friends. John always made it a special point to keep in contact with each group, often helping organize reunions.

John worked in soybean production most of his career. This brought him to Waterloo where he met his future wife, Laura (Lakin) while she was attending the University of Northern Iowa. They were married in 1976, living for three years in the Cedar Falls/Waterloo area. While there, John became a member of SPEBSQA, now the Barbershop Harmony Society, and participated in many performances, shows and activities with his Barbershopper friends. Their son, David, was born during a dress rehearsal and attended their first International Barbershop Competition in Minneapolis at the age of ten months.

John and Laura moved the family to Jefferson in 1979 to help start up a new bean plant, meeting and befriending many more people for the next six years. Their second son, Kirk, arrived as a Halloween treat. Neighbors, church members, Barbershop & choir singers, agriculture and other business associates and more were added to John’s collection. In 1985, the Meyer family moved to Marshalltown, adding to and starting more friendships and associations.

In 1988, John took a soybean plant manager position and transferred the family to Marshall, Mo. for a ten-year stint. John was still into Barbershop, choir, church, neighbors and associates, and added baseball and school to the mix. John and both boys joined in Babe Ruth Baseball, coaching, playing and scorekeeping. John’s extended list of friends and associates grew even larger.

John, Laura and Kirk returned to Jefferson in 1998, with the intent to someday retire there. John got involved with Little League baseball, choir, Barbershoppers, joined Kiwanis, Cribbage Club, the Greene County GOP and started announcing HS baseball games. Professionally, he switched to the bookkeeping side of business. John spent much of the time in Jefferson helping friends in their businesses, volunteering with various organizations, and co-managing his inherited portion of the family farm with his brother.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Drusa; his uncle and aunt, Delmar and Delores Meyer; his aunt and uncle, Madeline (Thomas) and James Summitt; and his uncle, Wayne Frohardt.

John is survived by his wife, Laura (Lakin) Meyer of Jefferson, his sons, David of Marshall, Mo. and Kirk (Stephanie) of Humboldt; two granddaughters, Adelyn and Embree; brother, Robert (Lisa) Meyer; sister, Carol (Spence) Lycan; niece, Erin (Tim) Ridley; nephew, Ryan Lycan; aunt, Lucille (Meyer) Frohardt; numerous “favorite” cousins; many, many other family members, in-laws and friends who love and admire him.

Memorials are suggested to the family to be used at their discretion at a later date.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, 386-2171.

Eldon Roger Blanshan, 86, was born on February 3, 1931, at home on the family farm east of Grand Junction, Iowa. He was the fourth of five boys born to Ernest and Lela (Dugan) Blanshan, at a location that would be recognized as a Century Farm in the 1970’s, designating land farmed by the same family for a hundred years. Eldon attended Grand Junction High School and attained an associates degree funded in part by the G. I. Bill. Eldon was a proud veteran of the United States Navy serving during the Korean War. He was a life-long member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

Eldon married M. Madonna Mestdagh on August 10, 1963 in Boone, Iowa, and together they had one daughter, Bridget K. Blanshan. Eldon was a career rural mail carrier serving the communities of Grand Junction and Paton and retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1990 after 30 years of service. Eldon earned numerous safe driving recognitions culminating in a career approaching a million miles driven without an accident. Shortly after retiring from the post office, Eldon was employed by the then Boone County Transportation where he spent 17 years driving a bus serving small children, people with disabilities and senior citizens. He found this role very gratifying, always taking seriously his responsibility for his passengers’ safety and going the extra mile to help people in need. Through his work with the post office and Boone County Transportation he developed cherished, lifelong friendships. In addition to his work, Eldon enjoyed farming and gardening. He took pride in his home and acreage and particularly enjoyed hosting events with Madonna for their extended family.

Eldon and his beloved dog, Ralph, moved to Escondido, Calif., in August of 2010 to share a home with his daughter, Bridget. As of September, 2016, he was under the care of Elizabeth Hospice of Escondido which provided physical and pastoral support and comfort through his peaceful passing at home on March 4, 2017.

Eldon is survived by his daughter, Dr. Bridget Blanshan; Sylvia Stowers, whom he loved as a daughter; one brother and sister-in-law, Dale and Fran Blanshan of Fort Dodge, Iowa; and several nieces, nephews and dear friends whom he loved very much. Eldon is proceeded in death by his wife, Madonna; his parents; and three brothers and sisters-in-law: Willis and Alice Blanshan, Floyd and Mary Blanshan, and Gerald and Phyllis Blanshan.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, September 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall in Boone. Burial of his cremains will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Boone. Military Honors will be conducted by the Boone Veterans Council. Friends may call at the funeral chapel on Sunday from 5 until 7 p.m. where a Vigil Service will be held at 7 p.m. On Monday, friends may call at the Chapel from 9 a.m. until service time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans. Online condolences may be made to www.schroedermemorialchapel.com.

Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel in Boone is assisting the family.

Steven Gingery, 61, of Boone, left us for the Great Gig in the Sky from the Boone County Hospital on September 3, 2017.

Following his wishes, Steven has been cremated and a private interment was held at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Cemetery outside Churdan. There will be no formal visitation or calling hours. A Celebration of Steve’s life will be held Saturday, September 23, 2017 at his home at 1535 15th Street in Boone, beginning at 1:00 p.m for friends and family. Bring your guitar.

Steven Joseph Gingery was born in Omaha, Nebraska on June 4, 1956, the son of James and Anne (Feeney) Gingery. He married Lori Weber on June 18, 2005. Steve worked in production for most of his life but enjoyed playing his guitar most of all. When not playing guitar, Steve was repairing and dealing in them. Steve shared his love of music with the people in his life, spreading the joy he felt with all.

Steven is preceded in death by his father, James L. Gingery and a brother, Mike Gingery. He is survived by his wife, Lori of Boone; his mother, Anne Gingery of Jefferson; a daughter, Stephanie (Matt) Fogarty of Madrid and their children: Aiden, Hannah, Gabe and Connor; a son, Ryan (Gie) Gingery of Ames and their children, Wes and Harper; his siblings: Mark (Colleen) Gingery of Sioux City, Maureen (Dennis) Borkowski of Jefferson, Suzanne Eliserio of Jefferson, Kathleen Gingery of Perry and Angela Gingery of Jefferson; three step-children: Benjamin (Rachel) Ward of Cedar Rapids and their children, Hazel and Harvey, Robert Ward of Council Bluffs and Stephanie Ward and her son, Nathan of Waukee; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In memory of Steven, memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.schroedermemorialchapel.com.

Schroeder Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall is assisting the family with arrangements.​