Debra Kay Rogers, 60, of Bayard, daughter of Betty Hensley and Russell Abbadusky, step-father, Albert Hensley was born March 10, 1957 in Illinois. She passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2017 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Memorial services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 6, 2017 at the Bayard Church of Christ. Burial of her cremains was in the Brethren Cemetery in Panora. Visitation was Sunday, November 5 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home in Panora.

In her youth, Debra lived in the New Boston, Illinois area. For a period of time, she lived with her Aunt Gracie and Grandad. She attended the Methodist Church while she was living in New Boston.  She enjoyed this time of her youth being involved in the church. She worked with her father, Russell, at the Mommouth Pottery Barn. At this time, two sons were born, Christopher and Robert. She also completed her high school equivalency. She then began working as a CNA for 10 years. While working as a CNA, she went to college at Bradley University. Also during this time she began going to the Worldwide Church of Christ and got baptized. While there, she served in the church for many years. During this time, she began to raise her daughter, Nicole.

Debra and Nicole moved to Bagley, Iowa. When arriving in Iowa, she began to work at Panorama High School. During this time, her husband Duane passed away. On November 26, 2005, she married Robert Rogers at the Bayard Church of Christ. In 2009, she left Panorama High School and began to work at Jefferson-Scranton High School. Debra worked at Jefferson-Scranton High School until 2017, when she then retired.

She is survived by her husband, Robert of Bayard; her children: Chris (Crystal) Abbadusky of Illinois, Robert (Annie) Cook of Carroll and Nicole (Zach) Wailes of Bayard; eight grandchildren; brother, Kevin (Theresa) Abbadusky of New Boston, Ill.; sisters, Tammy (Rod) Brommel of Stuart and Lesley (Jim) Jones of Bayard; and brother, William (Jennifer) Hensley of Winterset; many nieces, nephews, family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; step-father; husband, Duane Hansen; and brother, Troy Hensley.

Twigg Funeral Home in Panora assisted the family, 641-755-2211.

Wilbur “Curly” Eason, 88, of Scranton, passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at Thomas Rest Haven in Coon Rapids.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 6 at United Methodist Church in Scranton with Rev. Joyce Webb officiating. Casket bearers were Michael Bruns, Logan Opalinski, Lyle Huisinga, Glen Eason, Jay Eason, Marshall Eason, Richard Eason and Curt Eason. Burial was in the Scranton Township Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Iowa National Guard.

Born March 25, 1929, on the family’s farm in Scranton, Wilbur Eason was the second son of Ruth A. Phillips and Bertrand F. Eason. He graduated from Scranton High School and started farming with his father on their farm just outside of Scranton. Curly was inducted into the United States Army on April 3, 1951, and served in Korea from February, 1952 to his honorable discharge in March, 1953. He met Helen Eason, a teacher, at the Scranton Homecoming Dance and they were married in Collins, Iowa, on August 1, 1951. Upon Curly’s return from the service, the couple moved to the F.A. Eason farm east of Scranton where they raised their family of four daughters and farmed until their retirement. Curly truly loved farming, embracing all of the seasons and the many aspects of a small diversified farm. He loved Iowa and called it ‘God’s Country,’ vowing that he would never live anywhere else!

Their family vacations generally took them to places in Iowa or out to the western, wide-open states. After he retired from farming, he and Helen and their daughter, Genie would travel to visit each of their other daughters and families, which took them to Colorado, Massachusetts and Virginia as they visited people and places along the way. He was a voracious reader and read anything and everything, and embraced new technology as another way to learn and to connect with others.  

Curly was an active member of his church, his community and every organization to which he chose to devote his time and energy. Helen and Curly advocated for education for those with special needs in the 1960’s and employment opportunities in the 1970’s on behalf of Genie, who was born with Down Syndrome. They were key contributors to the establishment of Genesis Development in Jefferson and he served on the Iowa Governor’s Council for Development Disabilities for 10 years, including two years as Chairman. Curly felt it was important to advocate for those who were less able and devoted his lifetime to working with the local communities in developing numerous resources to serve this population. He also believed in keeping his small hometown a vibrant place to live and invested his time and energy in serving on the Scranton Betterment Committee, the Scranton Library Board and Carroll Community of Concern.    

Curly, along with Helen, was a faithful member of the Scranton United Methodist Church, served on numerous church committees multiple times and enjoyed volunteering for Vacation Bible School. Curly was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star and was active in the VFW and American Legion local organizations for many years.

Curly is survived by three daughters: Rebecca Joy Eason Opalinski of Parker, Colorado, Amy Marie Eason Bruns (Michael) of Natick, Massachusetts and Carol Winifred Eason of Scranton; five grandchildren: Logan Eason Opalinski, Brooke Helen Opalinski (Reinaldo Sanchez), Rachel Catherine Bruns, Madeline Ruth Bruns and Elizabeth Lea Bruns; two brothers, Frank Eason (Karen) of Morton, Illinois and Bruce Eason (Jane) of Mission, Texas; three sisters-in-law: Rosemary Eason of Battle Creek, Iowa, Doris Dickel of Madrid, Iowa and Patricia Caulkins of Collins, Iowa; a brother-in-law, Wilbur Huisinga of Parkersburg, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.

Curly was preceded in death by his wife, Helen on March 29, 2016; his daughter, Eugenia Eason; his parents; one brother, Bertrand Eason of Battle Creek; two sisters, Halcyon Dixon and Ada Huisinga; and two sons-in-law, Kevin Bahl and John Reilly.

Memorial donations may be made to Genesis Development, Jefferson, Iowa, or to Brushy Creek Honor Flight, Fort Dodge, Iowa and online condolences may be left for Curly’s family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Scranton.

Elberta H. Adkins, 88, of Gowrie, passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home in Fort Dodge.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, November 10 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Farnhamville with Pastor Robert Zellmer officiating. Burial will be in Gowrie Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 9 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Elberta Hertha Adkins, daughter of Albert and Agnes (Kirchhoff) Licht, was born April 16, 1929 in Deer Creek Township. She was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Deer Creek.  Elberta graduated Humboldt High School in 1946 and began taking classes at the University of Northern Iowa. When the classes she needed were unavailable, Elberta took a job as the bookkeeper at a hardware store in Fort Dodge, Iowa. She enjoyed going dancing with friends at the Laramar Ballroom where she met her lifetime dance partner, Willis Adkins. They were married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Deer Creek on June 8, 1949.

Willis and Elberta settled into their forever home in Gowrie, Iowa in 1956. They were blessed with three children: Dean, Mary and Elaine. In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, Elberta was the Gowrie Municipal Utilities bookkeeper for 35 years and City Clerk for 18 years. She was a founding member of the Gowrie Rescue Unit and volunteered as an EMT for 18 years. Elberta was an active member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (Farnhamville, Iowa) including their Ladies Aid organization and a member of the Women’s Auxiliary for VFW, Gowrie Women’s Club, Gowrie Quilters Club, a volunteer at the Gowrie Care Center and delivered Congregate Meals.  

Faith and family meant everything to Elberta and she cherished the time spent together. She said it was always important to her to actively participate in her children’s lives because that’s what makes a family - a family. Her quiet strength, abundance of grace and calling to care and give to others are a few of her many qualities that her family strives to imitate.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children: Dean (Marlys) Adkins of Clare, Mary (Mark) Hartwig of Elgin, Ill. and Elaine (Craig) Fillman of Paton; brother, Walter (Jeri) Licht of Badger; sister, Ruth Fredrickson of Fort Dodge; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Elberta was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Willis; and siblings: Irene (Raymond) Dencklau, Edgar (Eileen) Licht and Marjorie (Harold) Vosberg; and brother-in-law, Duane Fredrickson.

Memorials may be left to Gowrie Rescue Unit, Gowrie Fire Department, Paula J. Baber Hospice Home or Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Palmer Funeral Home in Gowrie is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis Kay Brelsford, son of Kenneth Wayne Brelsford and Goldie Mary Lansing Brelsford, was born at Kings Daughters Hospital in Perry, Iowa April 20, 1945. Denny, as he was lovingly known, died at his home in rural Perry November 4, 2017 at the age of 72 years, 6 months and 24 days.

Denny’s service was held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, November 9, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Perry with Reverend Paul Burrow conducting the service. The honorary bearers were Dennis Smith, Steve Hillman, Donnie Rhoades, John W. Palmer, Keith Weyers, Ron Sorber, Cecil Rueter, Doug Johnson, Bill Boorn, Dan Spellman and “Class of 1963.” Casket bearers were Craig Brelsford, Mike Brelsford, Doug Smith, Curt Muir, Pat Gasche and Mike Mace. Musical selections were “Amazing Grace,” “So God Made a Farmer,” “Drive,” “Drink a Beer” and “Aurora Borealis.” The organist was Dennis Morgan and the soloist was Brent Halling. The church ushers were Joe Royer and Gene Dorman and the flag presentation was by Tom South his beloved shop teacher. Burial was in Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry.

Denny graduated from Perry High School in 1963 where he served as Student Council and Class President. Denny married his high school sweetheart, Wanda Arlene Wolfe on June 5, 1965. They were blessed with three children: Todd, Lori and Angie. As a family, they made their first home in Berkley and stayed within Boone County the rest of their lives, building a simple and cherished life side by side. Wanda has fed many stray dogs and salesmen Denny invited in. Denny was known for always making someone feel welcomed, seen and heard. When you walked in the door, it was common to hear Denny and Wanda teasing one another, but Denny truly admired and was proud of Wanda’s ability to be a strong and loving partner, mother, and grandmother.

Denny was a jack-of-all-trades and loved any activity that allowed him to be outdoors. His career as a farmer began by renting his first 80 acres at the age of 15. Denny was well known for loving the land and being a progressive, innovative farmer trying out new ideas every year with a vast knowledge of machinery. In his later years and after Todd took over the farming operation, Denny drove a semi hauling grain and making friends in elevators across Iowa and visiting the ‘shop’ daily to pass down his farming knowledge to Todd, Jeff, Eddy and Gus.

After a long day of farming, Denny always made time for his passions of hunting and fishing and teaching his skills to others, especially Zach. As a family, Denny, Wanda, Todd and Angie worked hard together, but always made time for fun. A vacation to Colorado was a 42 year tradition for the family, trading two weeks of flat Iowa ground for four-wheeling in the mountains in their red Ford Bronco and C.W. McCall playing.

Denny and Wanda share a great love for Fairview Church as Denny was the oldest serving member before he passed. He deeply loved and knew every inch of the timber around the church, where he cut down the 140 year-old tree to make a beautiful cross the congregation admires every Sunday. In the way he does to bring family and friends together, he built his beautiful campground named “The Pond.” A common sight there, was a large crowd with Denny in the middle telling one of his favorite stories or jokes. He loved to spend early mornings at “The Pond” watching the wild life, he especially loved the song-birds and chipmunks. Due to Denny’s service in the Army Reserves motor pool during the Vietnam era, he always made a point to proudly fly an American flag in his campground.

Denny loved being involved with his family’s lives, commonly stopping to talk to Tracy at her home and visiting Angie at her tearoom. Denny especially had a soft spot for his girls, being his three granddaughters: Ashley, Lindsey and Allison. He received the beloved nicknames of “Poppy” and “Gramps” and spent time telling them stories and teaching life lessons. He always put them first and never missed a single life event from preschool to college. He felt very blessed to have them bring great-grandchildren into his life as well.

Denny’s memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife, Wanda; son, Todd (Tracy) of Ogden and daughter Angie Petersen (Jeff) of Ft. Dodge; granddaughters: Ashley Brelsford (Eddy Dunsmoor) of Perry, Lindsey Garcia (Gustavo II) of Perry and Allison Lansman (Zachary Wiggins) of Ankeny; great-grandchildren: Gustavo Garcia III, Victor Garcia, Natalia Garcia and Rylan Dunsmoor. Denny is also survived by sisters-in-law, Carla Smith and husband, Dennis of Perry and Mary Hillman of Grand Junction as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many, many friends. Denny was preceded in death by his precious daughter, Lori Lynn in 1967; infant brother, Kent in 1955; father, Kenneth in 1992; mother and father-in-law, Ted and Arlene Wolfe; and grandmother, Mary Lansing.  

Memorials may be sent to Hastings Funeral Home, Box 204, Perry, Iowa. 

Ruth Harrison, 89, of Jefferson, died Friday, November 17, 2017.

A Celebration of Life was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 20 at First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson, Iowa with Rev. Gordon Moen officiating. Casket bearers were Nick Harrison, Foster Harrison, Chad Harrison, Brett Harrison, Matt Barker and Collin Harrison. Honorary bearers were Don Fatka, Larry Fatka, Ron Fatka, Rick Smith, Duane Stanek, David Fatka, Dave Mills, Denny Klocksiem and Allen Klocksiem. “In The Garden” and “Hymn of Promise” were sung by soloist, Doyle Carlson, accompanied by Danille Curtis. The congregation sang “Amazing Grace.” A luncheon was served at the church fellowship hall following the funeral. Interment was at Lost Grove Cemetery in Lanyon, Iowa at 1:00 p.m. Monday.

Ruth Magdalene Fatka, the daughter of Lewis and Lena (Shafer) Fatka, was born July 28, 1928 in Paton, Iowa and departed this life November 17, 2017 at Regency Park Nursing and Rehab Center in Jefferson, Iowa.

Ruth was raised on the family where she was born in Paton. At the age of 12, Ruth accepted Christ as her personal Savior to which she held fast throughout her life. She moved with her parents to Jefferson, Iowa in 1944. She graduated from Jefferson High School in 1945. She attended Westmar College and completed her requirements to be an elementary teacher in 1948. She taught third grade in Early, Iowa

On August 4, 1949, Ruth was united in marriage to Walter Harrison at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Paton. Walter and Ruth were the parents of four sons. They spent seventeen years farming in the Paton and Burnside communities. In 1966, they moved to a farm near Lanyon where they lived for twenty-five years. During this time, Ruth did substitute teaching in local schools. She also enjoyed working with children in Sunday School and Bible School.

Walter and Ruth retired and moved to Jefferson in 1991. Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson. She loved her family and enjoyed her grandchildren immensely. The best times in her life were with her husband, Walter, whom she also considered her best friend. Together, they did considerable traveling and in later years, they enjoyed spending time hiking and exploring many parks and historical places of interest and seeing the country in their motor home.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Walter; her brothers: Wilber Fatka, Howard Fatka, Paul Fatka and infant brother, Warner; her sisters: Rachel Klockseim, Fern Mead and Nada Estes; and daughter-in-law, Linda Harrison.

Left to mourn her passing are her four sons: Joe Harrison of Gowrie, Iowa, Kim (Denise) Harrison of Alexander, Iowa, Mark (Ellen) Harrison of Onalaska, Wis. and Todd (Teresa) Harrison of Ogden, Iowa; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Charlotte Smith of Harcourt, Iowa; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

Memorials are suggested to St. Croix Hospice in Panora, First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson or Scleroderma Foundation.

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

Marlys Ann Haglund, daughter of Emery Edward Robbins and Velma Foss Robbins, was born April 26, 1948 in Jefferson, Iowa and died November 13, 2017 at Greene County Hospital in Jefferson at the age of 69.  

Marlys graduated from Jefferson High School in 1966. Marlys was united in marriage with Delos Elton Haglund on April 30, 1980 and has lived in Jefferson since.  

Marlys worked as a waitress for different businesses including Maid Rite. She worked at AAI for several years and then worked for the Bee and Herald Publishing Company.  

Marlys loved rocks, collecting them and making them into lovely jewelry. Her yard and flowers were very important to her and she spent many hours tending them. Marlys and Delos rescued many animals over the years and currently were loving three cats and her precious dog, Zoey.  

Marlys was ill with Parkinson’s disease for several years before she died.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her mother and father-in-law, Raymond and Edna Haglund; sister-in-law, Mary Mae Haglund and nephew, D Haglund.  Marlys is survived by her loving husband, Delos of Jefferson; her aunt, Arlene Robbins of Jefferson; her aunt, Eleanor Whiton of Perry; brothers-in-law, Doyle Haglund of Florida; Verle Haglund and his wife Maureen of Perry; nieces and nephews; cousins, including Tim and Vickie Robbins of Scranton and Roxanne and Todd Muir of Jefferson; other relatives and friends.    

Memorials may be sent to Hasting Funeral Home, PO Box 253, Jefferson.

Hastings Funeral Home in Jefferson was in charge of arrangements.  

Donny Bishop, the son of Jack and Betty (Wright) Bishop, was born December 15, 1948 in Jefferson, Iowa and departed this life November 19, 2017 at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson. He lived his life to the age of 68 years, 11 months and 19 days.

Donny attended school in Grand Junction and later attended taxidermy school in Janesville, Wisconsin. On August 5, 1967, Donny was united in marriage to Vicki Thornburg in Jefferson. They lived in Grand Junction and raised their family. They were later divorced.

In August of 1989, Donny met Nancy (Genco) Kinnan and on March 29, 2002, they were married at Donny’s brother’s home in Huntington, Arkansas.

Donny grew up in Grand Junction and loved carpentry work. He had a passion for fishing, hunting and farm life. After taxidermy school, Donny would work summer jobs and take the winters off to do taxidermy. He worked many jobs during his life including Wolterman Construction, Tri-County Lumber, Parker Wagons and as plant manager for American Ready Mix. He later worked for the Iowa D.O.T. out of Jefferson from 1993 to 2011. In 2011, Donny suffered a stroke which forced him to retire but he continued to farm and enjoyed gardening. Donny never met a child he couldn’t love like his own. He believed there was good in all people and with hard work and faith in God, anything is possible.  

Donny was a past member of both the Grand Junction and Jefferson Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; four children: Steve (Judy) Bishop of Carroll, Tim (Echo) Bishop of Missouri, Lori Bishop (Mike Webb) of Herndon and Kristy (Rick) Broadston of Pleasant Hill; nine grand-children; 15 great-grandchildren; a brother, Gary (Ellen) Bishop of Jefferson; and three sisters: Julie (Ron) Vickers of Grand Junction, Sandy (Larry) Chunning of Fountain, Colo. and Jean (Dave) Vickers of Grand Junction. Those who preceded him in death were his parents; a brother, Dennis Bishop and a granddaughter, Grace Ann Broadston.

A celebration of Donny’s life will be held December 3, 2017 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Church southeast of Jefferson. Please wear camo, if you have it, and a coat because the church has no heat. Honorary bearers will be Charles Gunn (Bug), Arthur Matherne, Robert Hebert, Tom Thorpe, Casey LeBlanc, Gary Miller, Aaron Cortez, Dick Moranville, Mark Clouse, Daryl Frickey, Steven Griffin, Jake Tonsfeldt, Makenna Broadston, Duwert Reese, Jerry Gilbertson and Daryl Bishop.

Brown Funeral Home of Jefferson is assisting the family.

Ruth Veenstra-Hedges, 102, of Clinton, formerly of Jefferson, passed away Saturday, November 25, 2017, surrounded by her family at the Alverno in Clinton.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, November 30, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson, Iowa. Burial was in the Jefferson Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Bill Evans, Ryan and Kyle Veenstra, Jonas Wilken, Tom Isom, Jim Unger, Larry Jackson and Richard “Dugan” McQuillen.

Roberta Ruth Neidigh was born May 3, 1915, in Shannon City, Iowa, the oldest child of William Harrison and Mary Jeannette (Williams) Neidigh. She graduated from Scranton High School in 1932. After graduation, she was the personal driver for Mrs. Daisy Dean of Jefferson, where she developed her love for traveling. Her travels with Mrs. Dean took her all over the United States and Canada, and she considered herself fortunate to have visited so many places as a young woman, especially during the Depression. She would later meet Ralph L. Veenstra at the dance hall in Bayard and they would marry on June 22, 1938, in Grand Junction, Iowa. They had three children: John, Joyce and James.

Ruth worked as a clerk and assistant manager at Woodruff’s Drug Store on Jefferson’s Square for many years. She also helped as a bookkeeper for her husband’s custom butchering business in Jefferson. After their retirement they enjoyed taking trips with their travel trailer and spending winters in warmer climates. Ralph passed away January 12, 1985.

After Ralph’s passing, Ruth continued her love of travel, visiting many amazing places including all over Europe. Her final overseas trip was to Ireland where she kissed the Blarney Stone right before her 90th birthday. She loved her annual after Christmas trips to southern California where she would spend the New Years with her son, John and take in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena. She made her final trip on her own at age 92. For a couple of years she served as a parade ambassador for floats telling visitors how the floats were constructed and what flowers were used. She also enjoyed taking annual fall foliage trips throughout NE Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin with daughter, Joyce.

Ruth loved to host family around the holidays and was known for her famous Easter bunny cake and delicious homemade sour cherry jam. During the Christmas and Halloween seasons you would find her wearing snazzy holiday sweaters and dangling earrings. She was always the last one to go to bed at family gatherings, fearing she would miss out on the action.

Ruth married Horace Hedges, her high school classmate, on July 2, 2008, and they built a new condo together at 93. They enjoyed their daily car rides, going out for meals and companionship. They would live together until she moved to Prairie Hills in Clinton in July of 2013 when Horace moved to GCMC Long Term Care. She looked forward to her trips back to Jefferson to visit Horace, and receiving his phone calls every evening up until her last day on Earth. She enjoyed her time in Clinton and spending holidays with her son, Jim and his family and attending her great-grandkids events.  She was happy to celebrate her 100th birthday with family and friends back in Jefferson in 2015, and was proud to be Prairie Hills first centenarian. She lived a full and independent life for 102 years until falling and fracturing her leg in June of 2017.

In addition to her husband, Horace of Jefferson, she is survived by two children, Joyce (Bill) Evans of Urbandale, Iowa and James (Sally) Veenstra of Clinton, Iowa; daughter-in-law: Barbara Veenstra of Gallatin, Tenn.; six grandchildren: Janis (Patrick) Murphy of Scottsdale, Ariz., Bill Evans of Dallas, Texas, Jody Veenstra Wilken of Coral Springs, Fla., Jerri (Colonel (Ret.) Tom) Isom of Murfreesboro, Tenn., Ryan (Whitney) Veenstra of Clinton and Kyle (Diana) Veenstra of Waukee, Iowa; eight great-grandchildren: Jonas Wilken, Nick Murphy, Audrey and Ruby Isom, Olivia and Jackson Veenstra and Cullen and Piper Veenstra; two step-grandchildren, Bill (Ivonne) Makela and Teri Neblung; four step-great-grandchildren: Ashlyn and Alan Gibson, Kacie Neblung and Brayden Makela; her brother, Leonard (Dorothy) Neidig of Red Wing, Minn.; and three nieces. In addition to her husband, Ralph, she was preceded in death by her parents; brother, James Neidigh on August 24, 2005; and her son, John Veenstra on August 10, 2010.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church, Jefferson.

Funeral arrangements were handled by her grandson, Ryan Veenstra and the staff of Snell-Zornig Funeral Home of Clinton.

Eleanor May O’Neill peacefully passed on November 28, 2017. A memorial service celebrating her 93 years of life was held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 2, at McGilley & Hoge Chapel in Overland Park, Kansas. Visitation was held at the Brown Funeral Home in Jefferson from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Monday, December 4, followed by burial next to her husband, William and her daughters, Kathleen and Ellen in the Jefferson City Cemetery.  

Eleanor was born March 5, 1924 in Jefferson, Iowa, the first child of Milo and Gladys Rydings. She had a carefree childhood and thrived even during the stressful period of the Great Depression. She demonstrated a strong attraction to her studies and appreciation for the arts, particularly music. While in high school, she learned to play the alto sax and gained such proficiency that she travelled to Kansas City and won a National Award for her playing.

After high school, Eleanor decided to pursue her interest in music by attending the Kansas City Conservatory of Music. She was a proper, yet adventurous young woman, which she demonstrated by accepting a blind date with a man described to her as a “star” high school football player, against her better judgement, expecting a brawny, uncultured behemoth. Instead the love of her life, William O’Neill, at 5’6” and 120 lbs. picked her up and, if not immediately sweeping her off her feet, managed to quickly receive a piece of her heart that grew into a lifelong union of their two souls. During this most tumultuous period of total war, Bill was drafted and Eleanor, despite parental reluctance on both sides, accepted his proposal of marriage. They were married in secret with Bill racing the paper boy to seize the morning paper, which included their wedding bands, before it was delivered to his parents, a race the “star” athlete lost.

War and the draft led them to Biloxi, Miss., where they lived a life of romance during a most unstable time. Bill was assigned overseas in the spring of 1945, but not before Eleanor conceived her first child, William II. Billy was born in December, while her husband was still stationed in Guam. In the spring of 1946, Bill returned and their second child, Ellen was born in February, 1947.  Kathleen and then Corinne soon followed, so that by the year 1951 Eleanor became fully engaged in raising her young family.

These first ten years of marriage after the war found the family moving many times while Bill pursued his career in transportation. Eleanor found herself making a home for her children in seven separate houses during those years, which included the birth of her fifth child, Kevin, until the family finally found more permanent roots in Independence, Mo. Here Eleanor moved into what she described as her favorite home on 615 N. Delaware St., where all saw and greeted President Truman strolling from the Truman Home to the Truman Library early in the morning. Eleanor celebrated the move with her sixth child, Brien, born in 1958. She settled into the challenge and routine of raising six young children ranging in age from 12 to infant for the next few years until, at the age of 42, she gave life to Sean, her youngest.

Not done with life or challenges, Eleanor decided to put to use the stenographer and typing skills she had learned over 25 years earlier, and went to work for Macy’s as a member of the typing pool.  Her skills and intelligence were soon recognized as she quickly became the secretary for the downtown KC Macy’s store manager.

A marriage of over 65 years can have some rocky and turbulent patches. Eleanor and Bill’s union was not exempt from rough seas and, at one point, they were divorced. But Eleanor loved Bill so much, that, with some reform on his part, she accepted his second proposal of marriage and they eloped again, this time unbeknownst to their children, to Oklahoma, where they reaffirmed their marriage vows.

The last 25 years of their lives together were their happiest. They found a gentle joy in their day to day activities, and, most rewardingly, in the lives of their grand and great grandchildren that their children presented them. After her husband’s death, Eleanor lived contentedly the last five years with her daughter, Corinne, and son-in-law, Randy Yeager until a recent hospitalization.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, Milo and Gladys Rydings; her husband, William James O’Neill and her daughters, Ellen O’Neill and Kathleen O’Neill. She is survived by her children: William James II (Carolyn), Corinne (Randy) Yeager, Kevin, Brien (Lisa) and Sean (Teanna); her 14 grandchildren: Susan, Scott, Alicia, Sara, Brent, Ashley, Amy, Timothy, Jennifer, Jessica, Jeffrey, Reilly, Aidan and Alec; and her 16 great grandchildren: Jackson, Benjamin, Evelyn, Jane, Gage, Sam, Grace, Carson, Kinsley, Laney, Stella, Liza, Lucille, Lilli, Charlotte and Caitlin. She is also survived by her sisters, Marie Smith and Beverly Batcheler and her brother, Herbert Rydings.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Kansas City Musical Club, c/o Treasurer Chris Evans Hands, 10206 Edelweiss Circle, Merriam, KS  66203.

Kathy Anne Buswell, 64, of Carroll passed away on Friday, December 8, 2017 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines surrounded by her family.

Mass of the Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 13 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Carroll with Fr. Kevin Richter as Celebrant. Music for the Mass was by Barb McDermott and the Holy Spirit Choir. Lector for the Mass was Susan Boes. Eucharist Minister was Florence Oswald.  Gift bearers and casket bearers were Kathy’s children: Heath, Jason, Quentin and Brook. Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Carroll.

Born on October 2, 1953 in Carroll, Iowa, she was the daughter of Lewis and Frances (Lehrter) Owen. Kathy grew up in Carroll and graduated from Carroll High School in 1971. She was married to Donald Buswell on June 29, 1974 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Carroll by Fr. Leo Lenz. Kathy worked at General Electric in Carroll for 26 years until its closing when she went to work for Pella Corporation. She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish where she enjoyed serving as a greeter.  

Kathy fought a courageous 24 year battle with cancer and was an avid participant in the Relay for Life and the Cancer Walk. Kathy loved Christmas and all things to do with the holidays. Family was most important to her, especially her children and grandchildren. Kathy had a zest for life and knew friends wherever she went. Her strength, love, caring nature and positive spirit left a powerful impact on her family and friends.  

Kathy is survived by her husband, Donald “Buzzy” Buswell of Carroll; her daughter, Brook Mikkelsen (Scott) of Halbur; three sons: Heath Buswell (Kristie) of Fallbrook, Calif., Jason Buswell (Gina) of Ballston Lake, N.Y. and Quentin Buswell (Sarah) of Carroll; her mother, Frances Owen of Carroll; her mother-in-law, Betty Buswell of Jefferson; eight grandchildren: Donald, Samarra, Nora, Ethan, Aliyah, Dean, Alec and Natalie; her sister, Donna Haley of Carroll; three brothers: Larry Owen and Dan Owen (Diane) all of Carroll and Dave Owen of Scranton; four sisters-in-law: Linda Booth (Larry) of Bagley, Dorene Tuhn (Jack) of Jefferson, Sherri Kavanaugh (John) of Lake City and Susan Harmon (John) of Slater; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kathy was preceded in death by her father, Lewis Owen; her father-in-law, Donald Buswell; her sister, Connie Owen; and two brothers-in-law, Ron and Mike Buswell.  

Online condolences may be left for Kathy’s family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Carroll.

Kathleen “Katy” O’Bryan, 90, of Jefferson, died Saturday, December 9, 2017 at Regency Park Nursing and Rehab Center in Jefferson.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 15 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson, Iowa, with Rev. Jeremy Wind presiding. A rosary will be prayed for her at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 14th in the church, with a visitation to follow from 5 to 7 p.m.  

Kathleen Callista Flynn was born on October 10, 1927 at the home of her maternal grandparents in Remsen, Iowa. She was the fourth of ten children of Cecilia Marie (Ahmann) and John Thomas Flynn. Katy spent most of her childhood in LeMars, Iowa. The Flynn family then moved to Sioux City, Iowa where Katy attended a Catholic all-girls high school. At age 16, she landed her first real job as a checker at the A & P Grocery Store on Pierce Street. She remembers taking in “sugar stamps” during World War II. After graduating in 1945, Katy worked as a switchboard operator at the local telephone office. Her younger sister, Darlene, wanted her to go on a blind double date. Since she had been “burned” once on a blind date with a fellow she considered undesirable, Katy decided to check out this guy before agreeing to any date! She went to the Kresge’s Department Store during her lunch hour to have a peek at the young Irish shoe repairman from Kentucky who was working there. He must have met her standards, because she married William Marion O’Bryan (Bill) on August 18, 1948 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, with her uncle, Rev. Cletus Ahmann, officiating at the ceremony. After the wedding, her brothers kidnapped her, gave her a dime (for a phone call), and put her on a street car. At the end of the line, she used that dime in a pay phone booth to call Bill to come and rescue her.

Bill and Katy lived in several towns where Bill found employment repairing shoes. Patrick and Donald were born in Clinton, Iowa. Susan, Marilyn, Rita and Peggy were born in Maquoketa, Iowa. The O’Bryan family settled in Jefferson, Iowa in 1957, when Bill bought a shoe repair shop on S. Wilson Street. With six youngsters to oversee, Katy stayed home with her children, until Bill & Katy rented a supply of shoes. Katy learned to sell shoes, while Bill repaired shoes in the back of the store. They were a hard-working couple, and their business grew, culminating in the purchase of the Brown Shoe Fit store on the SW corner of the Square. O’Bryan Shoe Store enabled them to send their kids to college and retire comfortably. After retiring from the shoe business, Katy earned a real estate license and sold properties in Arkansas.

She enjoyed volunteering as a “pink lady” at the Greene Co. Medical Center, playing cards and pulling off a good April fool joke. Katy’s “diamond pin” was shown to every new visitor for at least 20 years. Her Catholic faith was a very important part of her life, and she prayed the Rosary every day.

Katy suffered a stroke on July 29, 2017. She spent the last four months of her life at Regency Park Nursing and Rehab Center in Jefferson with her relatives visiting every day. She received about 90 cards on her 90th birthday. Several family members were present when Katy passed away on December 9, 2017.

Katy was preceded in death by her husband in 2012; her parents; her daughter-in-law, Linda O’Bryan; and her siblings: Robert Flynn, Mary Slate, Cecile Hare, Carol Hettinger, Darlene Jacobson, Norma Tague and Rita Flynn. Survivors include her brothers, Tom (Tammy) Flynn of Spirit Lake, Iowa and Jim (Kathy) Flynn of Urbandale; her children: Pat O’Bryan of Urbandale, Don (Barb) O’Bryan of Papillion, Neb., Sue (Tom) Wind of Jamaica, Marilyn (Denny) Tilley of Churdan, Rita O’Bryan of Jefferson and Peg O’Bryan of McCormick, S.C.  Katy’s grandchildren include: Kelly (Trevor) Petersma, Karen O’Bryan (Ryan Hanson), Shannan (Greg) Burgess, Lori (Scott) Meinecke, Cheri Warren (Jaime Barlow), Joe (Rayn) O’Bryan, Rev. Jeremy Wind, Marieta (Pat) Boberg, Chris Wind, Mary Jo (Ryan) Koch, Lori (Dan) Judge, Kim (Robby) Stephenson, Tami Tilley (Ron Brooks) and Katie (Jake) Denzik.  Also left to mourn are her 14 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.  

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to the Churdan Public Library or St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson.  

Hastings Funeral Home in Jefferson is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Maxine Ure, 92, of Cooper, died Saturday, December 2, 2017.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 21 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson with James Healy presiding. Chris Henning will give the eulogy. James Healy will sing “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” Interment will be in the Franklin Township Cemetery in Cooper, Iowa. The family will visit with friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Thursday. Following the funeral and interment, friends are invited to 308 Vine Street in Cooper where the family is hosting a luncheon and time for visiting and sharing memories.

Maxine was born May 12, 1925 to Dewey and Elsie Olive (Rice) Rensch in the Greene County Hospital. She lived with her parents and two younger siblings, Joe and Edie, in a two-room house in Cooper. Dewey owned a gas station and garage near the lumberyard and Elsie raised chickens and pigs, gardened, cooked fabulous meals and even chopped wood to keep the fire going in the winter. Her parents saw to it that their daughter had an upright piano, which took up a lot of space in the two-room house and testifies to the importance her parents placed on supporting her talent and abilities. She took piano lessons and eventually played piano for services at the Cooper Methodist Church. Music was her defining artistic outlet, though she was always interested in interior and fashion design with Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and House Beautiful as her magazines of choice.

Maxine remembers the passenger train service that came through Cooper on its daily round trip between Fort Dodge and Des Moines where she could ride it to Jefferson and back to Cooper for 35 cents. Mail was delivered to the depot and the train provided other services such as coal, livestock, grain, produce and lumber transport. The family drove the car to Jefferson on Saturday night to do their trading for food and supplies.

She attended school in Cooper, loved singing in choir, playing piano, and serving as guard in basketball for four years of high school. She studied by oil lamp to maintain a straight A average through school and graduated from Cooper High School as Valedictorian in 1943 with WWll in progress and classmates and young men across the nation were being drafted into service.

Her first job after graduation was in the children’s department located in the basement of the JC Penney store where she worked for 1½ years.  Later she  worked at the Empire Diamond Company. She lived in an apartment in Jefferson with her friend Darlene Coil.  Together they took the longest trip of Max’s life to California by train. When she returned to Jefferson, she started working at the Gamble’s department store. Early adult life included shopping, movies, dating, and attending Friday night dances in Grand Junction, using bus transportation between the two towns.

She and her future husband Eugene (Deke) were at that time only friends. He was drafted into the Army in 1942, doing basic in Texas before deployment to North Africa and then to Italy where he served  as Technical Sergeant, operating heavy weapons in the north Apennines, the Po Valley and Rome until 1944. She wrote him while he was in the service. Upon his discharge and return to Cooper, they began dating and were engaged on October 27, 1946.

Deke moved to Kansas City to attend Stevinson’s Aeronautical and Automotive School under the GI Bill. Near the end of January 1947, Maxine took the bus from Cooper to Kansas City where she was met at the bus depot at midnight by Deke, his sister Helen and her husband Bud Bennett. They returned to Deke’s apartment and all four slept crosswise on the bed that night.

They were married January 30, 1947 in the Linwood Methodist Church in Kansas City by Reverend Cassius E. Street, attended by Bud and Helen as witnesses. They telegraphed this wedding announcement to Ivan Knoedel, the depot agent in Cooper who walked the telegram one block south to tell the good news to Dewey and Elsie, Maxine’s parents and 2 blocks north to tell Walt and Glennie Ure, Deke’s parents. Their Kansas City apartment rented from the beautiful, kind and portly Mrs. Tidd was a second floor walk-up with an outside staircase, an aspect that Maxine did not like. Both talked about hearing continuous police and ambulance sirens while living in Kansas City and longed for the peace and quiet of Cooper.  

Upon Deke’s graduation from the KC school, and with his job in Jefferson waiting at Schall Ames, they left Kansas City in the morning with Deke driving their Model A arriving in Cooper that evening. They lived with Deke’s parents while Deke and Dewey built their house on an existing foundation on a lot in Cooper purchased by Deke’s mother Glennie from Harry Cole’s sister. Maxine remembers the drive to Des Moines with Deke in her Uncle Frank’s truck to bring back lumber to supplement their salvaged lumber supply. Ever dutiful Grandma Elsie had supper waiting for them when they returned that night.

After working as a mechanic, Deke began plastering and laying block with his brothers Jack and Jorb before starting work on the Underground Pipeline, traveling where more than 20 years of work took him to lay gas pipelines into communities in Iowa and across the Midwest. For the first few years of his pipeline work, Max and the kids traveled with Deke during the summer, enrolling the kids in schools for fall semester in whatever town in whatever state Deke was working in, returning to Cooper when the snow flew to begin their schooling in spring semester back home until 1959. From that time forward, in the faithful, supportive role that was her nature, Max kept the home fires burning in Cooper year after year while Deke worked away from home in the months of good weather, each looking forward to the winter months when the ground was too frozen and the weather was too cold to lay pipe. Then he would be home with the family. Deke became a master gardener upon retirement and Max canned prolific amounts of tomatoes, green beans and her famous pickled beets from his garden.

The value they found in salvaged objects and materials inspired by living through the Depression translated into an avocation of attending auctions, thrifting, and antiquing. They were pickers: recycling and repurposing before those terms were coined.

Joined at the hip, partners for life, living quietly and frugally, they raised their kids Jim and Cheri in the house they built in Cooper, living in it for over 50 years. They entered Regency together in 2008, celebrating 64 years of marriage in 2011 at the time of Deke’s death. His reflective, repeated observation to us, “Your mother is a beautiful woman,” served as his testimony of respect for her and reminded us of his care for her that we also shared. Maxine passed from this world December 2, 2017 at the age of 92 years.

Now they are both at rest, together again in Cooper, where they built a world of their own in the peaceful and quiet little town they always loved.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Deke; brother, Donald “Joe” Rensch; and sister, Edith Rolfes. Survivors include her daughter, Cheri Ure (Joe Healy); son, Jim Ure; grandchildren, James Healy and Danielle Olson; sisters-in-law, Georgia (Joe) Rensch and Jan (Bill) Squires; brother-in-law, Hap (Edie) Rolfes; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

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

Memorial service for David Peterson, 53, will be held January 6, 2018 at Central Christian Church at 11:00 a.m. with a private family interment at a later date. Friends may greet the family prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the church. A luncheon following the service will be provided for family and friends.

David Paul Peterson was born February 9, 1964 in Killeen, Texas to Edward Leslie and Jessie Jean Peterson. He and his older sister, Debora Lynn were joined two years later by younger sister, Rebecca Sue. Following a parental divorce, David and his sisters spent their childhood years with their mother, Jessie and step-father, Bob Custer.

David attended Jefferson Community School and graduated in 1982. Living on the farm with his parents, Bob and Jessie, David helped with much of the farm activity, including raising hogs and lots of field work. He enjoyed 4-H and Little League activities. Following graduation David moved to Oklahoma City for a few years where he worked as an apprentice chef at a restaurant.

Returning to Iowa, David lived in Perry, Iowa where he met his future wife, Lisa Devilbiss. David and Lisa were married in December 1991. Their first son, Andrew, was born in 1991. Heartbreak followed with Andrew’s drowning death in 1995. Andrew’s death was followed with the birth of their daughter, Hailey in 1992 and later another son, Dalton in 2000. David worked for several years at the Goodyear plant in Des Moines, but an injury at work resulted in David not being able to work again.

David enjoyed camping and fishing, but his leisure passion was races. He and family and friends often went to races in Boone, and his special treat was going to Florida with his father-in-law to attend the Daytona 500. David enjoyed spending time with his children, but the highlight of his later years was his three granddaughters: Cambree, Ocean and Padmae. The granddaughters spent much time with their grandpa and greatly enriched his life.

David struggled with diabetes from age four until his death, spending time in hospitals several times through his life. His death resulted from several complications due to his disease. He died in Methodist Hospital in Des Moines with his family at his side.

David was preceded in death by his son, Andrew; step-father, Bob Custer; grandmother, Gloria Thede; grandfather, Edward Godwin; and uncles, Jim and Joe Godwin.

Survivors include his daughter, Hailey Ashworth and son, Dalton Peterson both of Scranton; his mother, Jessie Custer of Jefferson; sisters, Debora (Joe) Bynum of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Rebecca Johnson in Knoxville, Tenn.; granddaughters: Cambree, Ocean and Padmae; his ex-wife, Lisa Ashworth of Scranton; mother-in-law, Pattty Devilbiss of Perry; as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles and many friends.   

Pat Eberle, 81, of Jefferson, formerly of Scranton, passed away Monday, December 18, 2017 at The Gardens in Jefferson.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 22 at First United Methodist Church in Scranton with Rev. Joyce Webb officiating. Organist for the service will be Lula Garnes. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. on Friday until the time of service.           

Born April 12, 1936 in Salford, Manchester, England, she was the daughter of Charles Edward and Emily Mary (Mitchell) Findlow. Pat grew up in England where she graduated from Kempston Top School in Bedford. Following high school she worked as a secretary. She met her future husband, Jerald Russell, at a dance and the couple was married August 6, 1955 in Bedford, England.

Jerald was a Sergeant in the US Army and the couple moved to Alabama until his honorable discharge when they moved to Jefferson, Iowa and then to Scranton, Iowa. Jerald and Pat had five children together. Pat was a homemaker and provided daycare in her home.

Jerald passed away January 6, 1977 and Pat was later married to Duane Eberle on August 9, 1984 at the Church of Christ in Scranton. Pat and Duane continued to live in Scranton, and Duane passed away November 23, 2012.  

Pat was a true Brit at heart and loved all things about England. She enjoyed afternoon tea with friends and family, dancing, cross stitch and spending time with her family and the trips they took to Wisconsin. Pat will be remembered for her caring nature, contagious laughter and British humor. She especially enjoyed the pies her granddaughter Emily made. Pat has made her home at The Gardens in Jefferson since September of 2017 where she received excellent, loving care.  

Pat is survived by her five children: Lynn Knight (Andy) of LaVista, Neb.; Susan Russell and Gary Russell (Cindy) all of Boone, Iowa; John Russell (Annette) of Grand Junction, Iowa and Jane Finch (Dale) of Jefferson; eleven grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; two English sisters, Jean Cadwallader and Glenda Braland; and other extended family members.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Emily Findlow and her two husbands, Jerald Russell and Duane Eberle.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Pat’s name be left at the church or mailed to St. Anthony Regional Hospital Hospice.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Scranton and online condolences may be left for the family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.

Thomas Matthew Wittrock, 78, of rural Bagley, Iowa passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 17, 2017.

Mass of the Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 28 at Annunciation Catholic Church in Coon Rapids with Fr. John Gerald as Celebrant assisted by Deacons, Louis Meiners and Walter Lauderdale. Concelebrant was Fr. Dan Wittrock. Lectors for the Mass were Ed Lauderdale and Marybeth Lauderdale. Music was by the Annunciation Choir with Diane Slater as organist. Gift bearers were Cindy Demers, Traci Karaffa and Marci Rios. Mass servers were Easton and Parker Hays. The State Council and Carroll Council of the Knights of Columbus formed an honor guard at the Mass. Casket bearers were Tom’s six grandchildren and spouses. Burial was in the Scranton Township Cemetery with military honors conducted by the US Navy.   

Born January 29, 1939 in Spirit Lake, Iowa, Tom was the son of Matthew and Rita (Ludwig) Wittrock. Tom grew up on his family’s farm northwest of Milford and graduated from Milford High School in 1958. In 1959 he enlisted in the United States Navy and served four years stationed in San Diego. Tom served on the USS Noble and was deployed during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Upon his honorable discharge, Tom remained in California and attended Pasadena City College where he earned a business degree. Tom married Delphine Krakowka on August 13, 1966 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Pilger, Saskatchewan, Canada. The couple lived in Pasadena where their children were born. The family moved to Spencer, Iowa in 1974. In 1979, they relocated to rural Bagley, Iowa. Tom owned and operated T.M. Wittrock Management Consultant in Scranton and also farmed south of Ralston.

While in California, Tom joined the 3rd and 4th degrees of the Knights of Columbus. He held many offices in the Iowa K of C, culminating as State Deputy from 1986-1988 and continued his involvement as a Past State Deputy. Tom was a 3rd and 4th degree member of the Carroll Council. Tom served on the Board of Directors for the Iowa Special Olympics and on the Advisory Board for Best Buddies Iowa. Tom was a generous person who quietly gave to others and never expected anything in return. He was loyal, dependable and honest. Even though he may have appeared to be quiet, he had a wicked sense of humor that his family always appreciated and enjoyed. He was an avid Notre Dame, Green Bay Packers and Outlaw Racing fan. Family was most important to Tom and he cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. He was affectionately known as “The Polka King” by his family.

Tom is survived by his wife of 51 years, Delphine; a son, Mark Wittrock (Antoinette) of Richland, Iowa; a daughter, Heidi Bellon (Jay) of Corydon, Iowa; six grandchildren: Graham Wittrock (Erin) of Richland, Emily Bingham (Brandon) of Corydon, Christian Wittrock (Allyson Wertz) currently serving in the US Navy in Dahlgren, Va., Isaiah Wittrock of Richland, Matthew Bellon of Corydon and Sophie Wittrock of Richland; four brothers: Roger Wittrock (Deb) of Milford, Iowa, Jerry Wittrock (Geri) of Urbana, Mo., Ron Wittrock (Julie) of Sioux Falls, S.D. and Mike Wittrock (Becky) of Spirit Lake, Iowa; two sisters-in-law: Sylvia Lauderdale of Arcadia, Calif. and Yvonne Doell (Arnie) of Davidson, Saskatchewan, Canada; and numerous extended family and friends. He was a dad and a Papa to many.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Matt and Rita Wittrock; his mother and father-in-law, Alphonse and Sophie Krakowka; a sister-in-law, Dixie Wittrock and a brother-in-law, Bob Lauderdale.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Coon Rapids and online condolences may be left for Tom’s family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.

Kenneth Russell, 72, of Jefferson died Saturday, December 23, 2017 at Greene County Medical Center Long Term Care.

A Service of Remembrance was held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 28 at Central Christian Church in Jefferson with Rev. Sheldon Henderson of Central Christian Church and Bruce Webster of Church of Christ officiating. Casket bearers were Rob Russell, Gary Russell, John Russell, Dale Finch, Jane Finch and Andrew Wiskus. The musical selections were “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.” Larry Dowd was the soloist accompanied by Rita Rasmussen. Interment was at Jefferson Cemetery.

Kenneth Roy Russell, son of Farel Evelyn Lakey Russell and Roy Raymond Russell, was born in Jefferson, Iowa on September 10, 1945. Kenny grew up near Jefferson and attended school in Scranton. After Kenny got out of school he began to do concrete work with his dad. Over the years he had other jobs working in construction. For a while he worked for Jack Ure and Fullerton Lumber.

On July 31, 1982, Kenny was united in marriage to Loy Helen Davis at the Church of Christ. They made their home in Jefferson. Kenny was a member of the Central Christian Church in Jefferson.

He had numerous interests. Kenny was a citizen band radio operator for many years. He went by the name of “Kenworth” when he was on the radio. He also enjoyed going to all of the stock car races on Friday and Saturday nights, and watching NASCAR on television. He was a long time member of the Lincoln Highway Association, and helped out at the Lincoln Highway Museum in Jefferson for several years. He always enjoyed meeting all of the people who would stop by.  He loved going to garage sales and flea markets. Through the years, Kenny and Loy traveled to Branson, Missouri many times to enjoy the shows.

Kenny also had many collections. His biggest collection was his caps, numbering over 1,000. Known in Jefferson as the hat guy, he spent many years as a Lincoln Highway advocate and a client of Genesis Development for over 15 years. He was a great example that one’s ability is determined by the size of their heart, and Kenny’s heart was pretty big!

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Bob and Jerry; a niece, Marjorie Peckumn; and his father and mother-in-law, Ellsworth and Norma Davis. He is survived by his wife, Loy Russell of Jefferson; his sister, Barb (Bill) Kendall of Jefferson; nieces, nephew, other relatives and many friends.

Kenworth, KNH-7106, has gone 10-7 for the final time.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Marjorie Teeters, 94, passed away Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at Eastern Star Masonic home in Boone, Iowa.  

Marjorie Ruth Teeters, daughter of Clarence Leslie Haering and Ena Marie Hoak, was born July 1, 1923 in Linden, Iowa where her father was the pastor of the Friends Church.  

Being a preacher’s kid, she and the family did a lot of moving. They lived in Linden, Pleasant Ridge, Dawson Township, Marshalltown and Paton. Marjorie’s schooling began in a country school west of Paton and ended in Paton where she graduated from high school in 1940.  

On Friday, October 18, 1940 Marjorie married Robert Teeters, a handsome couple indeed, who shared 58 years together. Most of those years were spent supporting the great Iowa farm life while raising chickens, Guernsey milk cows, pure bred Chester White hogs and five very lively, personality-filled kids.

Marj was a hard working farm wife and reaped the benefits of home grown food, she was an excellent cook. Family favorites were her fried chicken, homemade ice cream, pop overs and so much more!  Although she sometimes cringed when hearing the back screen door slam, she knew Bob would be coming through it with an armful of fresh vegetables from the garden. She canned everything for which her daughter Mary continued her legacy.

Marj was a long time member of the Lanyon Covenant Church and belonged to a delightful country ladies group, the 1-52 Neighborhood Club. For all seasons, a time to laugh, a time to cry and a time to rejoice in the Lord. Marjorie had a wonderful sense of humor. She taught her children how to love, laugh, respect and live the righteous way. She was a woman of deep and endless faith. She adored her father’s preaching and would be found sitting in the front pew looking up to him. She carried an abundance of love and kindness in her heart for everyone she met. We celebrate the amazing wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister she was to her family!

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert; sons, Bobby and Dick; brothers: Paul, James and David Haering; and a sister, Mary Burkett. Those who shall carry on the Teeters spirit include daughters: Colette Arnett (Bill), Ruth Smith (Mark), Mary Sealine (Paul) and daughter-in-law, Veva Teeters; grandchildren: Dean Teeters (Michelle), Nici Thomas (Joseph), Annette Bojevsky (Dave), Michele Overturf (Joe), Jennifer Fjelland, (Craig), Ryan Arnett (Erin) and Christa Larsen. She also enjoyed 17 great-grandchildren; five great-great grandchildren (and one on the way); sister-in-law, Nancy Haering; and nieces and nephews in Ohio and California.

Services for Marjorie were graciously held at the Salem United Methodist Church in Paton, Iowa on Saturday, November 25, 2017. She was laid to rest in the Dawson Township Cemetery west of Paton. Directly across the road from this cemetery originated the Friends Church where her father was a pastor and where she married Bob.

Evelyn Mabel Pahl passed away Sunday, December 24, 2017 at The Harbor at Renaissance in Stanardsville, Virginia. She was 82 years, 11 months and 26 days of age.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 12, 2018 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ohde Funeral Home in Manning, Iowa. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 13 at 10:30 a.m. at United Church of Westside. Interment will follow at Westside Cemetery.

Evelyn Mabel, daughter of Clayton and Nina (Courtney) Loughlin, was born December 28, 1934, in Newfoundland, Canada. Evelyn was married to Arthur W. Pahl, Jr. who served in the enlisted ranks of the U.S. Air Force. The couple lived in New York, Wyoming, South Carolina, Germany (twice), North Dakota, Texas, Missouri, Pennsylvania and Alaska. After retirement, they lived in Virginia and Kentucky before settling in Manning, Iowa. Following the death of Art in 2005, Evelyn continued living in Manning until using assisted living in Carroll, Iowa and Virginia.

Evelyn, “Babs,” enjoyed gardening, card games, casinos and reading. She was an expert at cooking, entertaining guests, knitting and making crafts.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

She is survived by a daughter, Judy (Sam) Bourne of Carbonear, Newfoundland; son, Michael (Paula) Pahl of Thornton, Colo.; daughter, Julie (Jerry) Slemp of Louisa, Virginia; grandsons: Doug Bourne of Mt. Pearl, Newfoundland, Jason Bourne of Carbonear, Newfoundland, Jason Schatzenpahl of Thornton, Colo. and Eric Pahl of Lawndale, Calif.; granddaughters, Patricia Lambott of Colorado Springs, Colo. and Samantha Lacey of St. John’s, Newfoundland; 13 great-grandchildren; four brothers: Ches, Jim, Roland and Carl Loughlin of Newfoundland; sisters, Elva Simpson of Truro, Nova Scotia and Linda Jerrett of Spruce Grove, Alberta; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ohde Funeral Home of Manning, Iowa is assisting the family.

Sharon (Pack) Gebhart of Osceola, Iowa departed this life on December 30, 2017 at Circle of Life Hospice in Chariton, Iowa.

She was born September 24, 1937 in Lena, Iowa to Charlie and Gayle (Taute) Pack. On July 27, 1957 she married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Robert Gebhart. They settled in Churdan, Iowa and raised four children. In 1989 they moved to Osceola, Iowa.

Sharon spent most of her life in education. She attended primary school in Adaza, Iowa and graduated in 1955 from Churdan High School. She attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids and was the last graduating class to receive a two-year teaching degree. In 1957 she began her teaching career in Paton, Iowa, which later became Paton-Churdan. Sharon taught here from 1957-1989. In 1988, Sharon received her master’s degree in counseling from Iowa State University. She then moved to Osceola to be an elementary counselor for Clarke Community Schools.

Sharon was a faithful member of the Churdan United Methodist Church and the Osceola United Methodist Church. She also gave a lot of her time to the Clarke County Hospital Auxiliary, TTT group, United Methodist Women, Delta Kappa Gamma, Sweet Adelines and the Churdan Methodist Church Choir. She also enjoyed spending her free time dancing, sewing, gardening and wintering in Casa Grande, Arizona.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Gayle Pack; brother, Charles Pack; sister, Norma Theile; brother-in-law, Larry Theile; and nephew, Jimmy Cody.

Survivors include her husband, Robert Gebhart; children: Valerie (Robert) Stofer of Jefferson, Iowa, Michael (Michelle) Gebhart of Denton, Texas, Shelley Carney of Ft. Worth, Texas and Trina (Tim) Rogers of Altoona, Iowa; grandchildren: Nicole Stofer, Hanna (Cameron), Mattie and Brenna Rogers, Sayer and Shea Carney, and Adam Gebhart; great-grandchild, Liam Dobesh; brothers-in-law, Jim (Nancy) Gebhart and Bill (Linda) Gebhart; sister-in-law, Genevieve Sherman; nine nieces and nephews; many great nieces and nephews; and even more great-great nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be Saturday, January 6, 2018 at the United Methodist Church in Churdan, Iowa. Family will greet friends one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment of her cremains will follow at the Highland Cemetery in Churdan, Iowa. Family will return to the church for lunch and fellowship following the commital.

Kale Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gary Ray Miller, son of Pauline Kiner Miller and Ray Miller, was born September 3, 1947 in Jefferson, Iowa and died January 6, 2018 at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson at the age of 70 years.

Gary grew up in Grand Junction, Iowa and attended Grand Junction High School. Gary went to work for his dad, Ray and later took over Miller Plumbing and Heating. On September 11, 1976, Gary was united in marriage to Mary Ann Kersey. They were the proud parents of two children, Brian and Patsy. They made their home in Grand Junction.

Gary loved to visit. When you ran into Gary you better not be in a hurry because his conversations were never short. Gary was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back and it wouldn’t matter if he knew you or not. You could call him anytime day or night and he would be there willing to help and never ever expected anything in return. Gary also had a great passion for tractor pulls and racing. He loved to build them, work on them and more importantly seeing them out on the track winning. His famous words before each race were if you tear this up, I’m not fixing it, yet he was the first one to unload it at 9 a.m. the next day. Working on his grandkids go-carts helped fulfill his own passion and relive his own go-cart days.

His love for farming was a very close second. He was in pure heaven when he was out in the field and driving the tractor with his best friend Nick Webb and crew. The bond these guys had was untouchable. Gary also had a passion for the color red. Every tool of his was painted red so he knew if any of his tools were missing he could recognize them by the paint.  And when we say all his tools we mean ALL his tools and maybe even Jon Strabley’s go cart motor, haha.

Most of all Gary was the happiest when he was helping others. Not a day went by that someone wouldn’t try to pick up the phone and try to see if he could help out. He was always the first anyone ever called. He was a jack of all trades. Especially when he claimed he could save Patsy money by building her a bike rack and welded her one up, only to have someone pull up beside the vehicle to tell him he’s dragging some bikes behind the camper. Gary never lived that one down. Or when he was welding in Brian’s garage and a spark flew near the gas tank and started a fire so he handed the tank to Brian and said, here take this, and continues to weld. Everybody always loved to pick on him, including the time his sleeve was on fire and once he noticed he turned around and said I thought my arm was getting hot and laughed. Or if Robert drew his name at Christmas time you knew his present would be duck taped, zip tied and would require multiple tools to open.

Gary loved to be active. He loved to wrestle his grandkids. You never knew who to yell at the kids or Gary. And as much as Gary loved his goodies so did his grandkids. His grandkids often emptied his secret stash in the shop and wouldn’t leave any for him. To stop this he put a lock on the drawer so they had to ask, yet this didn’t stop Degan trying to pry open the drawer. He lived for this kind of stuff. Many voids are left now that will never in this lifetime be filled but we all know “that there” life he lived was lived to the fullest.

A service of remembrance was held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 10 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson with Pastor Steve Ransom of First United Methodist Church in Grand Junction officiating. The recorded music played was “My Old Man” by Zack Brown Band, “Daddy’s Hands” by Holly Dunn, “Jealous of the Angels” by Donna Taggert and “A Father’s Love” by George Strait. Honorary casket bearers were Kenny Madison, Carl Allbee, Dave Coon, Bug Gunn, Tim Webb, Jerry Groves and Rick Comer. Casket bearers were Jeff Strabley, Jon Strabley, Jac Strabley, Wayne Kafer, Robert Kafer, Mark Renslow and Nick Webb. Interment was at Junction Township Cemetery in Grand Junction.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Pauline and Ray Miller.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Miller, his son, Brian (Brenda) Miller and his daughter, Patsy Miller all of Grand Junction; three grandchildren: Kelsi, Grant and Degan Miller; his sister, Marilyn (Mike) Mogensen of Ariz.; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the family for the purchase of park benches for Grand Junction at a later date.

Online condolences may be left at www.sliningerschroeder.com.

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