Dennis Daniel Powers, 78, passed away Wednesday, November 21, 2018.  Dennis was born February 22, 1940, in Ogden, the son of Daniel and Dorothy (Arnes) Powers.  

He graduated from Jefferson High School and Simpson College, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta fraternity. He served in the US Army Air Guard. He married Janice Heintz Powers in 1963. The couple lived and farmed at the family’s Century farm near Beaver for over 50 years.

Dennis was a collector of antique tractors and was well-known in the old engine hobby, participating in many shows. He also enjoyed Model T racing and had recently won the Montana 500 race.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Janice; son, Matthew and his wife, Marcia; stepmother, Shirley Powers; brother, Joe Powers (Deb); sisters, Diane Powers and Linda Williamson (David); niece, Jasmin Williamson; nephew, Chaz Williamson (Robyn) and their children Gia and Cash; and by many relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at the Community United Methodist Church in Ogden with Rev. Evelyn Lewiston will officiating. Visitation was Tuesday, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Carson ~ Stapp Funeral Home in Ogden. For online obituaries and condolences visit: www.carsonstappfuneralhome.com.

Michael Durlam, 84, of Ames, Iowa passed away at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames on Saturday, November 24, 2018. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, November 30, 2018 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, Iowa. A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, 516 Kellogg Ave, Ames, Iowa.

Mike was born in Jefferson, Iowa on October 1, 1934, the son of Michael and Faye Durlam. He was raised in Jefferson, graduating from Jefferson High School. He attended American Institute of Business (AIB) in Des Moines. He married Jo Ann Bullard on June 24, 1956 in Jefferson. He served in the Iowa Air National Guard for eight years, and also worked at Durlam & Durlam Clothing in Jefferson with his brother Loran. In 1964, Mike opened Durlam & Durlam Clothing in Ames and continued there until his retirement in 2000.  

Mike was very involved in the Ames Community. He was a prominent member of the Downtown Betterment Committee. He was an avid Cyclone fan and a Cyclone Ambassador, where he and Jo would host football players in a “home away from home” program. He was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church. Mike was also involved in Golden K Kiwanis. Above all else, he loved his wife and family as they were always number one in his eyes.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jo; daughters, Ann (Richard) Sandve and Sara (Bruce) Westemeyer; grandchildren: Erica (Andrew) Tinius and their son Xavier, Nate Sandve, Ryan Westemeyer and Ross Westemeyer; a brother, Wendell Durlam; two sisters, Lois Veach and Mary Lynch; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings.

Memorials may be directed to: First United Methodist Church 516 Kellogg Ave. Ames, Iowa, 50010.

Online condolences may be directed to: wwwgrandonfuneralandcremationcare.com.

Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care

Ivan D. Curtis, the son of Leroy and Ida (Clipperton) Curtis, was born April 16, 1924 on a farm near Churdan, Iowa and departed this life November 24, 2018 at Greene County Long Term Care in Jefferson, Iowa. He lived a long and full life to the age of 94 years, 7 months and 7 days.

When Ivan was four years of age, his parents moved to Jefferson where his father ran a grocery store where Ivan worked when he was older. Ivan graduated from Jefferson High School and then joined the Merchant Marines. When WWII started, Ivan joined the U.S. Navy. On March 27, 1945, while on leave from the Navy, Ivan Curtis was united in marriage to Shirley Ann McGlothlen at the Jefferson Methodist Church. After his discharge from the Navy, Ivan and Shirley started farming near Churdan and raised three children: Mike, Linda and Pat. They retired from farming in the early 90’s and moved to Churdan. 

Ivan was an active member of the Churdan United Methodist Church and served as an usher for most funerals over the years and up to a year prior to his death. As well as farming the land, Ivan raised livestock and enjoyed playing golf, tennis and bowling. After Shirley was diagnose with Alzheimer’s, Ivan cared for her and he took up quilting to keep busy. 

Ivan is survived by his daughter, Linda of Churdan; seven grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; daughter-in-law, Pam Curtis of Des Moines; son-in-law, John Cordes of Lohrville and a sister, Joyce Johnson of California. Preceding him in death were his parents; wife, Shirley in 2011; son, Mike; daughter, Pat Cordes; and two brothers, Dean and Gary Curtis.  

A celebration of Ivan’s life will be held Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Churdan with Rev. David Arulnathan officiating. Burial will be made at a later date in Highland Township Cemetery in Churdan. Musical selections at the service will be recorded favorites of Ivan’s. Casket bearers will be his grandchildren.

Brown Funeral Home in Jefferson is assisting with the services.

Dean McAtee, loving husband of 62 years, proud father, business owner and community leader passed away peacefully on November 25, 2018. Dean was dearly loved by his family, relatives, friends and all who met him. There was never a stranger in Dean’s life as he always smiled and engaged in conversation with everyone he met.

Dean was born April 2, 1932, to Maggie and Glenn Dewey McAtee. He was born on a farm in the Waukee area and was one of seven children. Dean graduated with the Adel High School Class of 1949. During that time, Dean met the love of his life, Lois Knigge, and started his first job with Goodyear.  He went on to attend San Diego Junior College while serving in the U.S. Navy and Drake University when he returned from service.

On September 1, 1956, Dean and Lois were united in marriage that was steadfast for the next 62 years. To their union were born four beautiful, devoted daughters, 12 grandchildren and 5 ¾ great-grandchildren.

It was a ‘Goodyear’ for Dean year after year. From his start in 1949 in Adel, he went on to serve in leadership roles in Goodyear stores located in Burlington, Sterling, Davenport and Spencer, Iowa. On March 1, 1966, Dean and Lois took a leap of faith and moved to Jefferson, Iowa to open McAtee Tire, Inc. The business expanded to eight other locations over time to include Perry, Rockwell City, Atlantic, Indianola, Ames, Marshalltown, Cedar Falls, and Hampton. He incorporated a successful retreading business for many years. One of Dean’s career highlights was the Goodyear Blimp arriving in Jefferson in 2006 for a week long celebration for his 40 years in business. Dean was a founding member of the Iowa Tire Dealers Association and served as president. He served on the National Tire and Retread Association Board including the executive board. Dean was elated to have the tradition of tire store ownership stay in the family which is now carried on by daughter Laurie and her husband John and their son Mike and his wife Miranda.

Community involvement was paramount to Dean. He was a founding member of the Jefferson Kiwanis Club and served for 50 years. He served his church in various capacities, served on the Jefferson City Council, achieved Jester status through the Masonic Temple and served on the Greene County Medical Center Board. Dean campaigned for numerous community fundraisers and has served on many committees. In recognition of his work and leadership, Dean received the Bell Tower Hall of Fame Award, the Chamber of Commerce ABC Award, Employer of the Year Award nominated by his employees and the Kiwanis Hixson Award .

He loved his Iowa State Cyclones and their last surprise victory the night before he passed. He loved playing golf, meeting with his coffee groups, playing cards with the guys, trips to the Mississippi Stud table and encouraged the growth of Greene County. He was blessed to travel the world with Lois and loved attending his grandchildren’s events regardless of the miles to get there. He believed that Jefferson was the best place in the world to live.

Dean was a man of deep faith, a devoted family man and a community leader. His life was focused around helping others asking for nothing in return except to pay it forward. Dean had a profound influence on his family and his community through his words, his leadership and action, and his welcoming smile. He will be missed by all and encouraged us to live our lives with faith, love, kindness, and generosity.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife, Lois; four daughters: Laurie Ann (John) Wahl of Rockwell City, Sue Ann Kenkel of Metamora, Mich., Jean Ann (Don) Feldmann of Jefferson and Dee Ann (Jeff) Valles of Woodridge, Ill.; twelve grandchildren: Zachary (Lindsey) Wahl, Michael (Miranda) Wahl; Kyle, Cameron, and Conner Kenkel; Benjamin, Maggie Feldmann; Alex, Elyse Wagley, Miles, Robert and Kody Valles; and five great grandchildren: Makenzie, Maxton, Kailer, Elliana and Madalynn Wahl; other special relatives and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maggie and Dewey McAtee; six siblings: Dick, Vern, Barb, Chuck, Hazel and Larry; mother and father in law, Henry and Gwen Knigge; and brother in law, Jim Knigge. 

A Masonic Service was held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 28 at Central Christian Church in Jefferson with Curt Eason presiding. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 29 at Central Christian Church with Rev. Sheldon Henderson officiating. Honorary bearers were the Kiwanis Club Members of  Jefferson. His grandchildren served as casket bearers. Congregational hymns sung were “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” and “How Great Thou Art.” Military Rites were by U.S. Navy Funeral Honors. Burial at the Jefferson Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Central Christian Church, Greene County Medical Center or Greene County Community Center, all in Jefferson.

Services were arranged by Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home of Jefferson.

Gladys Bastow, 95, passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2018 in Des Moines, Iowa. Honoring her wishes, there will be a family memorial service at a later date.

Gladys was born on a farm near Osceola, Iowa, on April 16, 1923, to Robert and Maude Baysinger. She was the youngest of three children. The family moved to Ridgeway, Mo., in 1928, and later to a farm near Mt. Moriah.

Gladys was teaching in country school during WWII when she met and married Clifford Whitaker. After Clifford was discharged from the US Navy, he and Gladys bought a piece of land in Fox Creek Township, where they started a successful dairy farm and where their three children: John, Suzanne and Rita were born.

In 1974, Gladys formed and operated a tour business, Top-Notch-Tours. She traveled all over the US, Mexico, Canada and Europe, where she met many life-long friends.

In 1982, Clifford passed away after a battle with cancer. Gladys later married Robert Bastow of Mt. Ayr, Iowa. The couple enjoyed touring and winters in Texas, playing shuffleboard, cards and dancing. They especially loved when family could come down to visit. After Robert’s death in 1997, Gladys moved to Jefferson, Iowa.

Gladys enjoyed her garden, sewing, cooking, reading, walking and playing cards. She will be remembered for her kindness, stubbornness and her wonderful stories and jokes.

Gladys is survived by her three children: John (Joyce) Whitaker of Albany, Mo., Rita (Dale) Tidwell of Wiggins, Colo. and Suzanne (husband Don, deceased) Sievers of Jefferson; a step-daughter, Mary Sue Webb; step-son, Keith Bastow; six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands; two sisters; a son-in-law and three nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jefferson Public Library.

The family was assisted by Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, Jefferson, Iowa.

Memorial services for Karen Wolf, 52, of Waukee, Iowa were held at 10:30 a.m.  Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson. Rev. Julie Paulson of First United Methodist Church in Jefferson officiated. Danille Curtis was the soloist and accompanist. The family visited with friends beginning at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Interment was in the Paton Township Cemetery in Paton. 

Karen Elaine Wolf, 52, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Waukee, Iowa on December 9, 2018.

Karen, daughter of Ronald and Phyllis (Patterson) Wolf, was born January 7, 1966 in Jefferson, Iowa. She attended school in Jefferson and was involved in music, drama, cheerleading, baton and track. After high school, Karen attended Westmar College in Le Mars, Iowa.

Karen worked for many years as a teaching associate for various school districts in Iowa, Minnesota and Nebraska. Most recently, Karen was employed by Nationwide Insurance, where she obtained an insurance agent license and worked in customer service for over 10 years.

Throughout her life, Karen enjoyed participating in community theater and singing. She sang the National Anthem at Nationwide’s annual Memorial Day service for the past several years. Karen also collected family memorabilia and was a knowledgeable family historian. Karen was known by many for her infectious laugh. After being selected as one of ten finalists from nearly 100,000 entries, she went on to compete in the 1999 Pillsbury Giggle-Off Contest in California. Karen was friendly, sentimental and enjoyed sharing funny stories and memories with others.

Grateful for having shared her life are her brother, Greg (Pat) Wolf of Urbandale; nieces, Jill (Riley) McDowell of Ankeny and Whitney (Daniel Weiser) Wolf of Grimes; and numerous cousins and special friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Phyllis Wolf; grandparents; aunts; uncles; cousins; friends; and her beloved dog, Muffin.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite animal rescue organization.

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

Shirley Hoyt, 83, of Scranton passed away on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson surrounded by her family.

Funeral service were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Scranton United Methodist Church with Rev. Joyce Webb officiating. Casket bearers were grandsons: Chad Schoon, Jeremiah Hoyt, Josiah Hoyt, Simon Schlabach, Caleb Hoyt, Elijah Hoyt, Logan Hoyt and Reid Schlabach. Honorary casket bearers were Shirley’s grandchildren. Burial was in the Scranton Township Cemetery.

Visitation was held at Scranton United Methodist Church from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday evening. Visitation resumed at the church on Saturday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Born October 10, 1935 in Garnett, Kan., Shirley was the daughter of Clifford and Marjorie (Homrighouse) Said. Her family moved to Iowa when she was a baby and she grew up in Guthrie County. She graduated from Scranton Consolidated Schools in 1953. She lived in Omaha for a short time and returned to Scranton where she worked several jobs.  

Shirley was married to Ralph Eugene Hoyt on April 10, 1954 at Scranton United Methodist Church by Rev. Blackman. Following their marriage, Shirley lived with friends and worked Felco while Ralph was stationed in Japan serving in the Army. Following Ralph’s military service, the couple farmed southwest of Scranton and continued to farm throughout their married life in Greene County.  Shirley was very active in the farming operation.  

She was a member of the Scranton United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, Eastern Star and several coffee clubs. Shirley enjoyed gardening, baking, cooking, canning, sewing, playing the piano, but most of all spending time with her family.  

Shirley is survived by her husband, Ralph of 64 years of rural Scranton; her daughter, Deb Schoon (Kurt) of Scranton; four sons: Rick Hoyt (Sharon) of Scranton, Randy Hoyt (Sheryl) of Kalona, Roger Hoyt (Peggy) of Scranton and Robert Hoyt (Emily) of Scranton; twenty-four grandchildren; thirty-three great-grandchildren; her sister, Beverly Hoyt of Jefferson; and many other relatives and extended family members.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Marjorie Said; her mother and father-in-law, William and Florence Hoyt; a daughter-in-law, Kristine Hoyt; a granddaughter, Arminda Grace Hoyt; four great-grandchildren: Samuel Charles Hoyt, Christopher Michael Hoyt, Noah Alexander Hoyt and Nile Eugene Hoyt; and her brother, Clifford Said.

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

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

Clifford E. Said, the son of Clifford W. and Marjorie (Homerighouse) Said, was born December 6, 1937 in Dedham, Iowa and departed this life December 17, 2018. He lived his life to the age of 81 years and 11 days. 

Cliff graduated from the Scranton Consolidated School in 1956. In May of 1956, Cliff joined the United States Navy and served four years. While in the Navy, he served two years in Germany with the Naval Security Group and in Alaska for one year. 

On May 13, 1958, Cliff was united in marriage to Mildred (Millie) Hoyt at the Methodist Church in Scranton. After their marriage, Millie joined Cliff in Germany. Their first daughter, Cindy, was born while there. Tammy was born after they came back to the states in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Cliff spent 21 years in the home furnishing business as a salesman, sales manager, general manager and business owner. Cliff and Millie operated a discount furnishings and carpet store in Jefferson for several years. For 34 years, Cliff operated “Cliff Said Seminars”; directing seminars and workshops on leadership, worker relationships, sales and marketing and positive communications throughout the United States and Canada. He authored a book; “Who Am I Really” and was a columnist for various trade publications. 

Cliff was an active member of Jefferson Presbyterian Church and a member of the Community Players where he shared his love of music and singing. Cliff was also a 43 year member of the Jefferson Elks Lodge where he served in many capacities: as an officer with two terms as Exalted Ruler, and on committees such as member-ship, visitation, monthly committees and fund raising. He also served in the state level of the Elks and was currently serving as State Chaplain. He had been State Vice President for the northwest district, served on the Ritual Committee and conducted workshops on membership, leadership and public relations. For the Elks Grand Lodge, Cliff served two terms as a District Deputy, worked with the Grand Lodge Membership Committee and was a key note speaker at the Orlando Grand Lodge Convention as well as at many state conventions.

Cliff will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Millie; daughters, Cindy Mason of Jefferson and Tammy Schuett (David) of Grand Island, Neb.; grandchildren; Lorelle Hinote (J.B.) of S.D., Anna Schuett of Neb. and Josef Schuett (Hope) of Neb.; great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Lily, Malachi and Jordyn all of S.D.; and sister, Beverly Hoyt of Jefferson. Preceding him in death were his parents, Marjorie and Clifford W. Said; brothers-in-law, Glen Hoyt and Jack Haack; and sister, Shirley Hoyt who passed away two days following his death. 

Funeral services were held Friday, December 21, 2018, at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson with Rev. Gordon Moen officiating. Military Honors were conducted at the church by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard. Burial was made in the Scranton Township Cemetery near Scranton. Musical selections were sung by the congregation and soloist, J.B. Hinote and accompanied by Keri Brooker. An Elks Rest Memorial service was held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, December 20, 2018, at Brown Funeral Home in Jefferson. Serving as casket bearers were Les Fister, Steve R. Smith, Aaron Walker, Jonathon Smith, Bill Berger and Bob Smith.

Assisting the family was Brown Funeral Home, Jefferson.

James Walter Braden was born July 23, 1951 and died January 5, 2018.

He is survived by his wife, daughter and two sisters.

Iowa Cremation Companions for Life, 515-264-3407.

Shirley Hamilton, the daughter of Leslie and Olive (Ressler) Allen, was born May 13, 1943 in Carroll, Iowa and left this life January 3, 2019 at her rural home near Churdan, Iowa. She lived her life to the age of 75 years, 7 months and 20 days.

Shirley attended and graduated from Churdan High School in 1961 and later attended Burnell College of Cosmetology in Fort Dodge. On August 27, 1961 Shirley Kay Allen was married to Vernon Hamilton at the Presbyterian Church in Churdan, Iowa. Three daughters were born to this union. After their marriage, Vern and Shirley made their home in Dana and Shirley worked as a beautician and raised her family. Shirley was a 4-H leader of the Dana Dainty Damsels. In 1980, after the death of Shirley’s dad, the family moved to the family farm near Churdan. In the early ‘80s, Shirley retired as a beautician and went to work at the Churdan Library, first as children’s director and later as overall director, and retired in 2005. Shirley was proud of her Irish heritage and traveled to Ireland to visit her roots.

Shirley was a member of the Churdan and then Paton Presbyterian Church and was church secretary and treasurer in Paton. Shirley was active in the Adaza Club, GA Club and United Presbyterian Women. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening and working in her flower beds. She especially enjoyed having coffee and visiting with her friends.

Shirley is survived by her three daughters: Lesla (Mark) White of Bondurant, Dana (Basil) Coale of Gainesville, Virginia and Eugenia (Jeff) Hartsook of Madrid, Iowa; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Vernon in 2015; a sister, June Marie Allen; two other siblings in infancy and an infant grandson, Joseph Allen Coale.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 7, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church in Paton with Rev. Daniel Emmert and Rev. Roger Todd officiating. Burial was made in the Evergreen Township Cemetery near Lohrville. Musical selections “When the Roll is called Up Yonder” and “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” were sung by Rochelle Guess and Renaye Lindgren. Serving as casket bearers were Marcus Vogel, Denny Tilley, Charlie Paup, Ron Toliver, Mark Beckley, Craig Geottsch and Jennie Beckley.

Memorials are suggested to the Churdan Library.

Brown Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Jack Monroe Pinckert, son of Clifton Pinckert and Alta Eskridge Pinckert, was born October 12, 1931 in South Bend, Indiana. Jack died December 17, 2018 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 87 years, 2 months and 5 days. Jack’s funeral was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 27, 2018 at First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson, Iowa. His pastor Rev. Gordon Moen officiated. The casket bearers were Greg Pierce, Lindsay Bledsoe, Matt Bledsoe, Wayne Lautner, Matt Pittman and Bill Monroe. Sheryl Sloan was the organist and played “His Eye is On the Sparrow” and “Blessed be the Tie that Binds.” Wayne Lautner played a song on the trumpet. Military Honors were by the Camp Dodge U.S. Army Detail, American Legion Post # 11 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 9599 at the Jefferson Cemetery. A lunch was held at the church before going to the cemetery.

Jack grew up with his brother, Orval and sister, Eleanor. He graduated high school in South Bend, Indiana in 1949. Jack worked for the Studebaker Company and attended Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana before being drafted into the U.S. Army where he served from 1952 to 1954. He proudly served with the 45th Division Artillery and for two years was stationed in Korea. Jack was united in marriage with MyraJane Marie Lea and over the course of the next seven years was blessed with four sons: Rick, Gary, Brian and Ken. 

Jack was a very intelligent man who had a deep thirst for knowledge. His life was centered on his family and his pursuit of higher education, and with challenging, important professional employment. Jack also made time to serve his church and communities. Jack received higher education from Purdue University, Indiana University and Notre Dame. 

After his discharge, the couple lived in South Bend where he worked as a draftsman/engineer for Torrington Bearing Company.  In 1968 the family moved to Jackson, Mississippi where he accepted the position of Plant Manager with Magna American Corporation. Jack’s family then settled in West Branch, Iowa in 1972 where he would work over the next 12 years as Chief Industrial Engineer for Sheller Globe and then for Century Engineering in Cedar Rapids as an Industrial Engineer. For ten years he served on the West Branch Community School Board. In 1984 Jack and MyraJane moved to Jefferson where he worked as an Industrial Engineer for the Jefferson Transmission Plant. Following that he owned and operated Hydraulic Fabricators. Jack semi-retired and worked part time in the office at Durlam Electric. 

Jack and MyraJane served on the Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels for 20 years. They were faithful and active members of the First Presbyterian Church.  

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Orval Pinckert. His memory will be cherished by his loving wife of 66 years, Myrajane; devoted sons: Rick (Suzi) of Golden, Colorado; Gary (Becky) of Palmer, Alaska; Brian (Linda) of Oviedo, Florida and Ken (Mary) of Everett, Washington; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; sister, Eleanor Stock of South Bend, Ind.; sisters-in-law, Carol Pinckert, Melinda Booth-Lea and Elena Lea; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends. 

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

Marylee Brown, 87, of Madrid and formerly of Bagley, passed away Thursday, December 20, 2018 at the Madrid Home for the Aging in Madrid. Per Marylee’s wishes no services are planned. 

Marylee Brown was born April 16, 1931 in Jamaica to Ray and Evelyn Dorothea (Stockburger) O’Connell. She attended Bagley High School, graduating with the class of 1948. She was united in marriage to Myron Lovell Brown in Des Moines on February 25, 1956. She worked at the telephone office and grocery store in Bagley and later worked in Des Moines until she married Myron. They moved to the farm south of Jamaica and in 1976 she started working at Harland Ace Hardware in Perry until retiring in 1993. After retiring, they moved to Bagley for several years before moving to Jefferson.

She enjoyed reading, fishing, gardening and later playing slot machines.

In death she rejoins her husband, Myron Brown; parents, Ray and Evelyn O’Connell; two brothers, Kenneth and Danny O’Connell and two sisters, Maxine Allen and Betty Ilene Taylor.

Left to cherish Marylee’s memory are her son, Cary (Robin) Brown and grandson, Alex Brown both of Madrid.

Online condolences may be sent to www.carrisfuneralhome.com.

Carris Family Funeral Home & Cremation Care in Perry assisted the family.

Funeral services for Scott Brackett, 53, of Jefferson were held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, January 12, 2019 at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson. Interment was in the Jefferson Cemetery.  Pastor Larry Rupp officiated. Vocalists were Cheryl Rupp and Lynn Eubank. Sheryl Sloan was the accompanist. Interment was in the Jefferson Cemetery.

Scott Dean Brackett was born in Jefferson, Iowa on July 22, 1965. Scott passed away on January 9, 2019. He was 53 years old. Scott grew up in Chariton, Iowa and graduated from Chariton High School. He attended DMACC and graduated from the heating and air conditioning program. 

Scott has one son, Cody Brackett, who lives in Bondurant. He was always very proud of his son and the things he has accomplished. He was very happy when he and Lauren were married. 

After closing his business, Scott moved to Jefferson to help his grandparents with their business. When his grandfather died, Scott looked after his grandmother and has helped her for many years. He would call her and visit her every day to make sure she was doing well and was available to help her whenever she called, day or night. 

Scott loved riding his motorcycle and rode it whenever he could. He built his own motorcycle from scratch. It took him several months to build, and he was really excited when he finally was able to ride it. Scott had many friends that he rode motorcycles with. They have been really kind to his grandmother. He rode his cycle just last weekend and was happy that he was able to ride in every month last year.  

Scott loved his animals. Through the years, he had hunting dogs and went hunting frequently. He also had four cats and would adopt any stray cat that would wonder into his yard. 

He always wanted to help others in need. If someone needed a place to stay, he would always welcome them to stay in his home. He was a very caring and generous person all of his life.

Scott will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. 

Scott is survived by his son, Cody and wife, Lauren Brackett of Bondurant; mother, Kathleen and husband, Kent Woods of Ames; grandmother, Juanita Gilroy of Jefferson; his two brothers, Lonnie and wife ,Kim Brackett of Knoxville and Stacey and wife, Tammy Brackett of Chariton; his sister, Angela and husband, Gary Amfahr of  Des Moines; special friend, Shirley Henry of Jefferson; and many relatives and friends.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home was in charge of the services.

Rowena Frances Miller passed away on January 5, 2019 at the age of 92. She was born on May 2, 1926 in Jefferson, Iowa to Daniel Francis Walker and Francis Margaret Burnell. She is preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Maxine Walker and Elizabeth Piepel, and an infant son, Robert Sedar, Jr.

The center of her family, Rowena is survived by her son, Scott Sedar (and daughter-in-law Bari) of Washington DC; daughter, Milissa Rowcliffe (and son-in-law Chuck) of Falls Church, Va.; son, Brian Sedar (and daughter-in-law Maggie) of San Francisco, Calif. and daughter Roanne Mayer (and son-in-law Bob) of Park City, Utah. 

Her five grandchildren benefited from her loving attention and wisdom. They are William, Mara, Christian, Tate and Frankie.  

She married Robert Sedar on November 23, 1946 in Jamaica, Iowa. They moved to Denver, Colo. where they raised a family. Rowena earned a bachelor’s degree from University of Colorado in 1985 at the age of 59. She had a successful career with the Colorado Legislature and with an independent oil company in Denver. Robert preceded her in death on September 6, 1992. She married Wilbur Miller on April 30, 1994. When she moved to Westcliffe, she shared Wilbur’s love of the Wet Mountain Valley and the ranching life. Wilbur preceded her in death on October 24, 2014. 

Rowena was a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Westcliffe. She completed a two year program of Biblical Studies at the Catholic Biblical School in Denver in 1995. She counted many of the members of the OLA parish as her dearest friends.

A Rosary will be held at 9:30 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 25, 2019 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 6455 Brook Park Dr., Colorado Springs, CO. In lieu of flowers,  donations may be made to Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 109 S. 5th St., Westcliffe, CO 81252.

January 11, 2019 … Donald Trump was President … Government was in partial shutdown … Border Wall was a controversial topic and the Brewers had beat the Cubs … Jr decided he’d had enough and left this earth for a far better place! Jr fought really hard to come back to his family, but it wasn’t meant to be... God had other plans. Jr passed away peacefully at Dallas County Hospital in Perry, Iowa surrounded by his loving family.

Irvin Jr Whiteley was born January 31, 1928 in Sewal, Iowa to Irvin Erwin Whiteley and Sara Emma (Todd) Whiteley. Jr went to school in Sewal until 7th grade and attended “Country School” north of Corydon in 8th and 9th grade and graduated from Allerton High School in 1946. Jr rode his horse to and from school many of those days. While in high school, he worked at the Webb Sale Barn and at Whiteley Electric with his brother Dail. Jr spent his leisure time working with and training horses. Jr was married on June 3, 1949 at the Christian Parsonage in Allerton, Iowa to Geneva Frances Ockerman and they resided in Corydon, Iowa (where their first daughter, Peggy Ann was born).  

Jr worked at Bricks Gas Station, then he worked at Wolf’s Furniture Store and Funeral Home and after leaving Wolf’s he worked at Jack’s Grocery and Murphy’s Clothing Store. In 1959 Jr joined the P.M. Place Company as manager. His first store was in Corning, Iowa later transferring to Albany, Mo. (where their second daughter, Terry Lynn was born), Boone, Iowa and Jefferson, Iowa where Jr and Geneva were to make their home until December 2015. After working for Place’s for twenty five plus years he began working at the Greene County Assessor’s Office as an appraiser for nine years while working at Spring Lake as a Park Officer part time. After retiring from the Assessor’s Office he worked at Midwest Dry Cleaning and continued at Spring Lake. He left Midwest Dry Cleaning to work at Bayard Basics Hardware Store and helped every weekend at Bayard Dance Country both in Bayard, Iowa until their closing. Then … he finally learned the difference between “Retired” and “Tired.” 

Among his hobbies and favorite things to do were riding and training horses, sports of all kinds especially baseball in high school and as an adult, playing third base at Shane Hill with the Whiteley Family and others. Other favorite past times included girls softball, golf, bowling, dancing, fishing, boating, westerns on television, country music and good food. Jr was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Jefferson, Kiwanis, Rotary, League Bowling, Chamber, Jaycees, MYF leader and was President of Girl’s Senior League Softball.  

In December of 2015 due to health issues the decision was made to move in with daughter Peg in Perry, Iowa. After a two month hospital stay Jr moved to the Rowley Masonic Home in Perry where he lived until his death.

Jr was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Sara Whiteley; a sister, Sarah Whiteley; Geneva’s parents, Aaron Ockerman and Ina Ockerman; brother-in-law, Lowell Ockerman and his wife Virginia Ann; sister-in-law, Lois Morrett and husband George; sister-in-law, Anna Mae Tonelli and husband Charles; along with several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 69 years Geneva Whiteley; two daughters, Peg (Dick) Wilcox of Perry and Terry (Dennis) Murphy of Jefferson; five grandchildren: Jennifer Pierce of Perry,  David Wilcox of Des Moines, Jill (Jim) Carollo of Allen, Texas, Roxanne Wilcox of Davenport, and Michael Wilcox of Scranton; five great grandchildren: Katie Humpal, Dalton Humpal, Emma Humpal, Breanna Carollo and Parker Pierce. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, other family and many friends.      

Jr’s body was cremated and no services are planned per his wishes.   

Memorials may be sent to Geneva Whiteley at 12432 K Drive, Perry, IA 50220. 

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home of Jefferson assisted the family.

Kent Sutton McWilliam was born in Jefferson, Iowa on December 15, 1936 and died December 15, 2018 on the farm in Paton, Iowa at the age of 82. 

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 5, 2019 at First United Methodist Church, in Jefferson with words of comfort provided by Rev. Julia E.F. Poulson. His casket bearers were Mark Rittgers, Rick Rittgers, LeRoy Calvert, Mike Bravard, Paul Mears and Boe Lovain. A trumpet solo of  “Amazing Grace” was performed by Mr. Wayne Lautner. Graveside service were held at the Junction Township Cemetery in Grand Junction, Iowa, where the rider less Magic was a great hit. A luncheon was held at the church following the service at graveside burial. Visitation was held at Hastings Funeral Home in Jefferson on Friday, January 4 starting at 1 p.m. Family was present at the visitation that evening from 5 to 7 p.m.

Kent lived his life on his family farm in Paton. He graduated high school from Paton Consolidated in 1955 and left the farm briefly to attend college at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. After one year he transferred to Arizona State University in Phoenix, where he obtained a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Agronomy with a minor in chemistry.  Kent returned to the farm in Paton and continued to farm with his father, Wiltse McWilliam, for the next 20 years and then took over all farm operations for the rest of his life. In 1958 Kent married Suzanne Clopton from Jefferson and in 1959 they welcomed a baby girl, Ann Marie, and in 1964 they adopted a son, Todd Kent. Kent and Sue were married for 20 years and divorced in 1978. Kent shared the majority of his life with life mate Mary Tilley of Boxholm, Iowa until her passing in 2016.  

Kent fell in love with horses at an early age when his dad bought his first horse which gained him the freedom to run his horse to town to visit his beloved grandparents. After college Kent was very active in play day sports participating in barrels, poles and track racing with his trophy-winning horse Tonka. Eventually Kent began breeding, raising, showing and selling Arabian horses. During this time he also began horse and buggy rides with his beautiful white Arabian horse, McCoy. Kent and McCoy gave people hundreds of summer buckboard rides and winter rides in an enclosed Amish buggy. He also made many fond memories with people at parades and weddings. On his tombstone Kent is the “Paton Cowboy.” 

Perhaps Kent’s greatest claim to fame however might be his charismatic personality, being a hilarious storyteller and an overall extremely funny person. He always delivered good times and laughs and those will be greatly missed. 

Kent is preceded in death by his father, Wiltse McWilliam; mother, Blanche McWilliam Prasad; son, Todd McWilliam; brother, Roy McWilliam and life mate, Mary Tilley.  He leaves behind his daughter, Ann Marie (Scott) McWilliam Yoder; a grandson, Hayden Barr; his brothers, Evans (Linda) McWilliam and Winston (Joan) McWilliam; sister, Diane (Les) Williams; and many nieces and nephews. 

On May 23rd, 1921 Agnes was born, and on December 19th, 2018, she passed away, at the Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson. 

Agnes was the tenth child of Theodore and Amelia Odendahl Wernimont.  She grew up on a farm north of Carroll, Iowa.  She received her first nine years of education through Mt. Carmel Catholic School. Agnes was transferred to St. Angela Academy and graduated in 1938.  She helped on the family farm until her marriage to Alois Meiners in 1946.  Eight children were born to them.  They are Judith (Gary) McBride, Lake Stevens, WA, Janet Meiners, Jefferson, IA, Jean Meiners, Jefferson, IA, Lynn (Diane) Meiners, Bend, OR, Daniel (Marcy) Meiners, Cedar Rapids, IA, David (Sandy) Meiners, Cedar Rapids IA, James (Rhonda) Meiners, Knoxville TN, and Paul (MaryJo) Meiners, North Liberty IA, all of whom survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Al, brothers Ed, Ray, Bill and Leo, sisters Anne (in infancy), Marie Wiederin Ramaekers, Theodora Riggs, Cecelia Wiederin and Lillian Ludwig and grandson Joe(y).

She lived, she tried, she died. Agnes will be deeply missed by her children, thirteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, sister-in-law Thelma Wernimont, other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Rev. Fr. John Gerald at 10:30 AM Saturday January 12, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson, followed by a luncheon at the Parish Center.  Burial was in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Lectors were T.J. Meiners and Todd Meiners.   Dick Davis served as acolyte and Sue Wind served as Eucharistic Minister.  Lois Last and Sheilah Pound provided the music for the Mass.

Memorials may be directed to Greene County Action Resource Center in Agnes’ name and may be sent to Hastings funeral Home in Jefferson.   

Gerald (Jerry) Douglas Waugh, 73, of Sully, IA, passed away on Friday, January 25th, 2019, in Des Moines, IA after a brief illness, with family by his side.

Jerry was born September 3rd, 1945, in Mt Ayr, IA, to Clarence and Mary Waugh. He and his older brothers, Richard and David, grew up on a farm outside of Redding, IA, and graduated from Mt. Ayr High School. Jerry went on to play basketball at the University of Northern Iowa, where he was an All-Conference player and graduated in 1968.  

Following college, Jerry married Terri Biggs, and completed 3 years of military service with the U.S. Army.  After Terri’s passing, Jerry was married to Julie Whitehouse.  Jerry married his wife Marcia Martin in 1994.  Between them they had 7 children.

Jerry was a lifelong educator.  He was a teacher,coach, principal, and superintendent in numerous communities in Iowa, including Eldora, Atlantic, Ft. Dodge, Jefferson, and Grundy Center.

Jerry & Marcia enjoyed and were active in church, church choirs and youth mentoring programs wherever they lived. They enjoyed traveling together and attending as many of their grandchildren’s activities as possible. Jerry was also an avid fisherman who enjoyed planning and leading family fishing trips to Canada and Wyoming.

Jerry is survived by his wife Marcia Waugh (Cunningham), his children Trisha (James) Pipkins, Jim Martin, Mike Waugh, Jason Martin, Teri (Brad) Bowlin, Jonathon Waugh, and Mark (Zoe) Waugh,  as well as grandchildren Jaryn Pipkins, Trey Pipkins, Jack Bowlin, and Payton Bowlin. He is also survived by his brothers Richard Waugh and David Waugh, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Mary Waugh, as well as his first wife Terri Waugh (Biggs).

Visitation will take place Friday, February 1st, 2019, from 5p-8p at Hamilton Funeral Home in West Des Moines, IA. Funeral services will held at Union Park United Methodist Church in Des Moines, IA, on Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 at 11am. 

The family will be memorializing Jerry with a donation in support of the choral music programs at Union Park United Methodist Church and the St. Andrews Lutheran Church of Sully. If desired, contributions to the memorial can be made through [https://www.plumfund.com/memorial-fund/jerry-waugh-memorial-fund].

Velma Radebaugh, 98, of Jefferson passed from this life on Wednesday, January 23, 2019 following a brief illness at the Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson, Iowa.

Velma, the second daughter born to Cyrus and Alta Lulu (Hiddleson) Radebaugh, was born June 10, 1920 at her parent’s farm home in Hardin Township, Greene County, Iowa. She attended her first eight years of school at Hardin No. 4 country school under the tutelage of the same teacher, Mrs. Grace Lamb.

From an early age, Velma had an interest in music and played the violin and piano. Velma graduated valedictorian of her class from the Jefferson High School in 1937. Her father died the year that she graduated, and Velma attended Grinnell College that fall. Her mother and grandmother purchased a small home a block from the college dormitory to be close to Velma. Velma received a Bachelor’s Degree in music from Grinnell College in 1942. She began her teaching career and taught for three years in the Bayard and Ogden schools. She then went to Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois where she received her Master’s Degree in music education in 1945. Following that she taught in the Carroll and Perry schools, and then taught in the Ames Community School in 1955 until her retirement in 1982. Velma returned in Jefferson and lived with her sister, Vivian, and helped Vivian in a craft business known as The Crafters until its closing. Following her sister’s death in 1991, Velma continued to live in Jefferson and in 2003, Velma’s nephew, Rory Autenreith, came to make his home with Velma. Rory passed away in 2007 and Velma continued to live in the home until 2015 when she became a resident of the Greene County Long Term Facility in Jefferson. 

During her life, Velma was a member of the Baptist and Methodist churches and at her death was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Jefferson. Velma was member of the Jefferson CZ Chapter, P.E.O. and a 75-Year member of Beta Sigma Phi Beta Alpha Chapter in addition to being a past member of the Retired Teachers and Delta Kappa Gamma. In her retirement, Velma enjoyed reading, needle work and playing her grand piano. 

Velma was never married and had no children but she lovingly

referred to her farm tenants, Dave and Steve Haupert, and Randy Riley and their families as her “boys”. She will always be remembered by her friends as a caring and loving person who was openly and appreciatively grateful for any kindnesses that she received from others. She loved flowers and her favorite phase when she received them was “Aren’t they lovely”.   Her genuine appreciation made it a joy to others to give to her, even if it was just a smile or hug.  Her response to the gift or gesture, however small it may have been, elevated the gift to the most important thing in her life on that day, and she remembered it from that day forward.   She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law, Vivian and Dean Autenreith and nephew, Rory.

Funeral services were held, Monday, January 28, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at the Brown Funeral Home in Jefferson with Rev. Dennis Martens and Rev. David Simonson officiating. Burial was made in the Rippey Cemetery at Rippey, Iowa. Musical selections chosen by Velma were “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and “The Lord’s Prayer”. 

Serving as casket bearers were Steve Haupert, Dave Haupert, Randy Riley, Zeck Simonson, William Radebaugh and Colby Peacock. 

Memorials are suggested to be given to the Bell Tower Community Foundation in Velma’s name at 115 E. Lincoln Way St., Suite 200,  Jefferson, Iowa  50129.

Steven Keith Langfitt’s life was celebrated Thursday, January 17, 2019 form 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Hastings Funeral Home in Jefferson. Honorary bearers were: Chuck Coover, Mitch Langfitt, Karlan Langfitt , Kurtis Langfitt, Dub Dillavou, Pat Doepp, Bill Annear, Allen Annear, Tim Pittman, J. R. Langfitt and Matt Hilebaugh. Interment took place at Junction Township Cemetery in Grand Junction.

Steven Keith Langfitt, son of Keith Lloyd Langfitt and Shirley Ann Hidlebaugh Langfitt, was born January 1, 1960 in Spokane, Washington.  Steven died at his home December 31, 2018, following a lengthy illness just one day shy of his 59th birthday.

Steven’s father was in the U.S. Air Force and the family moved several times, following his career.  The family ultimately moved to Iowa and Steven lived in Greene County most of his life.  While a student at East Greene he enjoyed playing football in Junior High and basketball in High School.  Steven worked for various farmers, baling hay, walking beans and other farming jobs.  He lived for a time in Lake City. 

Steve was an independent man who enjoyed being his own person and pursuing his many hobbies.  He had an enormous collection of all types of music, recorded in various formats.  He secured some of his favorites even from overseas.  Steve loved Drag Racing, Indy cars and NASCAR.  He has a fabulous collection of cars, model kits and various racing memorabilia. Steve was a big fan of many sports, but especially loved the Iowa State Cyclone football and basketball teams and the NFL, Cincinnati Bengal Football team. 

Through the years he cared for his grandmother Hazel Langfitt.

Steven was preceded in death by his father Keith Langfitt, step father Victor Border, grandparents Mildred Cloe Hidlebaugh, Hazel and Lloyd Langfitt and great uncle Orlin Langfitt and his wife Wilma.  Steven will be deeply missed by his mother Shirley Langfitt Border of Ft. Dodge; his brothers Bryan Keith Langfitt (Vicki Dillavou) of Grand Junction; and Bradley Keith Langfitt of Dana; Brad’s children Kristen Langfitt (Nathan Zollars); Karlan Langfitt and Kurtis Langfitt; great niece Peyton Langfitt; aunt Elsina Faber Sieck; cousins, other relatives and  friends.