Don Quick passed away peacefully on April 28.

Since 2011, Don lived at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown. His beloved wife, Shirley, died in December 2019.

Cremation rights have been given, and burial for Don and Shirley will be at 4 p.m. June 23 in the Junction Twp. Cemetery, Grand Junction.

A celebration of Don and Shirley’s life will occur once friends and family can gather again at a time and place to be announced. If you are interested in attending or want to send the family a condolence, please visit mitchellfh.com.

Don was born in Naper, Neb., on July 1, 1936, the son of Bert Quick Jr. and Violet (Fernau) Quick.

As a child, he lived briefly in Southern California and Butte, Neb. He graduated from Butte High School in 1955 and served his country stationed at March Air Force Base in Riverside, Calif.

He returned to school at 30 years old and graduated from Wayne State College in Wayne, Neb., in 1969 with a bachelor of science degree. He married Shirley on June 2, 1956, in Butte.

Don was in business with his father from 1960-66. After college, Don worked as vice president for the Deshler Broom Factory in Deshler, Neb. He also managed a J.I. Case dealership in Mount Pleasant and worked for Case in Sioux City. He also owned and operated a bar at the Sioux City Stockyards called Quick’s Country.

Don, Shirley and Russell moved to Jefferson in 1983. 

In 1982, he was hired by Scranton Manufacturing as their national marketing manager. During his career, he influenced the company to switch from producing livestock and farm handling equipment to producing small garbage trucks for the burgeoning recycling market in the U.S. and internationally. He believed his legacy was helping to put Scranton Mfg. on the path to becoming a volume producer of garbage trucks. 

While working for Scranton, he was afforded the opportunity to travel to all of the lower 48 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Spain and England, something which he considered the highlight of his life. 

After he retired from Scranton Mfg. in 1998, he delivered garbage trucks, worked as a health aid at the Greene County Medical Center and lived for a short time in Singapore.

Don was diagnosed with dementia in 2005 and eventually succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease.

Surviving Don are three sons: Michael, Russell, Joshua Schultz; and grandchildren Zachary, Abbygail, Hunter Mathieu and Elizabeth (Edgar) Corral.

Maxine Whiting, 95, died June 18 at Shady Oaks Care Center in Lake City.

Funeral services were held June 22 at Lampe Funeral Home in Lake City, with Father Lynn Bruch officiating and burial in the Lanesboro Cemetery. 

Maxine Mary (Minnehan) Whiting was born on June 7, 1925, in Greene County to Francis and Magdalene (Fitzpatrick) Minnehan. After graduating from Churdan High School in 1942, Maxine went on to St. Anthony Nursing School in Carroll.

On June 7, 1947, Maxine married Dellwyn Whiting in Churdan. Throughout the years, Maxine worked at Greene County Hospital in Jefferson, then McVay Hospital, McCrary Rost Hospital and Stewart Memorial Community Hospital, all in Lake City, until her retirement in 1989. While at SMCH, Maxine taught nursing classes through ICCC for seven years.

Maxine was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lake City, St. Teresa’s Sodality, SMCH Auxiliary, St. Anthony Alumni and Birthday Club.

Maxine is survived by her son, Steve (Amy) Whiting, of Lake City; daughters Marlene (Jim) Rath, of Glidden; Valerie (Ron) Kalous, of Lohrville; Angela (Randy) Richardson, of Lanesboro; and Wendy (Randy) Alger, of Blakesburg; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; and sisters Rosella Eischeid, of Tucson, Ariz., and Norine Carroll, of Coppell, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Del; and brothers Ray and Bob Minnehan.

Gary Dean King, 73, of Urbandale, was called to join his wife, Denise, who he so dearly missed, on June 12.

Gary was born on March 3, 1947, to Lee and Gladys King, of Churdan.

He spent his childhood on the family farm, participating in 4-H and raising animals. Gary attended Paton-Churdan schools, graduating in 1965. 

Gary went on to attend Simpson College, earning a B.A. in law enforcement education in 1973. During that time, he also worked for the Milwaukee Railroad. 

Also, during his time at Simpson and in Indianola, he started getting involved in hot air-ballooning. Gary earned his commercial LTA rating in 1978 and became heavily involved in the sport of ballooning, going on to help organize/run/participate in some of the biggest, best and coolest events around the world, including the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. His love of the sport continued throughout his life, always sharing it with anyone who wanted and handing it down to many, including his sons, family and friends. 

Gary went on to work many jobs, including corrections, rehabilitation and social services. He was married to Denise in 1983. They had two sons: Christopher King, 36, and Mitchell King, 31, both of Urbandale. Gary retired from the state of Iowa in 2009.

Gary did not stay retired for long, going on to work jobs at FedEx, Home Depot and the Civic Center of Des Moines for many years. He will be remembered for many things, such as his love of cars, trains, animals and absolute adoration of his grandchildren, along with his smile, laughter, eloquence and vast knowledge.  

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Gladys King; his wife, Denise Ann (Collins) King; siblings Wayne King, Cynthia (King) Bierman; and too many friends. 

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Kristy King, their children, Asa Wayne and Elouise Breann; son Mitchell King; sister and brother-in-law Jim and Darlene (King) Woltz; niece Kate (Matt) Vukich; brother-in-law Calvin Bierman; sister-in-law Karla King; niece Lauren (Schyler) Bardole; nephew Taylor King; sister-in-law Diana (Mark) Bourret; nephew John (Carrie) Bourret; sister-in-law Dory (Ross) Johnson; nephews Collin and Gavin Johnson; niece Emily Johnson.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. June 26 at Glendale Cemetery (overlooking the pond), 4909 University Ave., Des Moines. All are welcome. Casual dress is recommended. Shorts, hats and favorite balloon T-shirt encouraged. 

A memorial flight is being planned for a later date. Announcements will be made via social media. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made in his honor to The Balloon Training Academy 501c3 nonprofit. Donation information can be found at https://www.theballoontrainingacademy.com/memorial/

A Masonic service for Michael A. Henning by Signet Lodge 265 will be held at 2 p.m. June 26 in the Willow Twp. Cemetery, Bayard, with the Rev. William Crawford, grand master of Iowa Masons, officiating.

Michael’s story begins over the German/Austria border in a B-17 piloted by Capt. Albert C. Henning in World War II. 

In the process of a bombing run with the 459th Squadron, the “Texarkana Hussy” — his plane named for his wife, Jane — was shot down.

After bailing out and surviving the explosion, he was captured and transported through Frankfort, Germany. While at the train station, a group of German civilians became aware of the situation and were prepared to hang both Albert and the pilot he was carrying on the spot. A German soldier grabbed him and the man he was carrying and threw them both into a locked box car headed to prison camp, saving his life. 

After 17 months in a POW camp, Albert returned home but he never forgot what the German soldier had done for him.

Following the war, Albert continued in the U.S. Air Force and was reassigned to France in the mid-’50s. At that time, he and wife Jane adopted Michael Henning, a German orphan born Aug. 18, 1955. 

Michael was so proud of his father and mother. May they rest in peace.

Mike graduated from Bayard High School with the Class of 1973. He considered his classmates his lifelong friends. 

No one will ever forget Mike’s impressions, which he loved to share, making people laugh. He could imitate anyone but was especially known for John Wayne, Jack Benny, Harry Morgan and a host of others. His sound effects of a Kawasaki motorcycle hitting a brick wall were legendary, always bringing a smile to his classmates.  

His life plans were to be a cattle farmer, but a serious car accident changed those intentions. He rented out his farm ground to Jerry Peckumn and reluctantly sold his cattle. 

He became a volunteer at Thomas Rest Haven and for other organizations. Mike worked for a short time at Thomas Rest Haven. He was a dedicated volunteer there, spending many hours with the residents. He called Bingo and enjoyed awarding prizes. Mike helped residents by taking them shopping and to church.

Most of all, he visited with them and listened to their stories. He loved to sing the great Frank Sinatra tunes to entertain the residents and staff.  He had a beautiful singing voice.

Mike received his third degree of Masonry in Coon Rapids Charity Lodge 197 in 1989 and served the lodge as worshipful master in 1996, 2001 and 2002.  He continued to be an active Mason in Signet Lodge 264 in Carroll when the Coon Rapids lodge was discontinued. He was also a Shriner and a Scottish Rite Mason.

Mike was fondly known as “the onion man.” 

He delighted in selling bags of sweet Vidalia onions each spring to benefit the Shriners. It gave him the opportunity to talk with his friends and customers, and Mike loved to talk. This year it was a challenge for him to deliver more than 100 bags of onions, but with perseverance and the help of friends, every bag was delivered.

Mike was a collector of many items, but especially John Wayne memorabilia, “CHiPS” and other TV/movie items. He enjoyed classic vehicles, was proud owner of several used police vehicles, and “collected” motorcycles and vehicles like those he or his family had owned throughout the years. 

Mike died June 10 at his rural home in Bayard. He was 64 years, nine months and 23 days of age.

While he was an only child without any close relatives following the death of his parents, Mike considered his numerous friends as his family, and his presence and good nature will be missed forever.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret “Jane” (McGaha) Henning in 1988; his father, Albert Clifford Henning, in 1996; and his grandmother, LuLu Henning.

He is survived by his Bates and Henning cousins; his farmer, Jerry Peckumn; his lifelong friends of the Bayard Class of 1973; and so many special friends from Thomas Rest Haven and the Masons and Shriners of Coon Rapids and Carroll.

With special thanks to Kent and Kim Bates, for sharing Albert’s stories, to Luann Waldo and the Class of 1973 for the memories; to the caregivers at McFarland Clinic in Carroll, who helped Michael deal with his many health challenges; and to Aunt Janette Henning Hostetler, who filled Michael’s cookie jar countless times over the years, providing not only sustenance but comfort and advice!

Ohde Funeral Home in Manning is assisting with arrangements.

Josephine Morehouse, daughter of Julia (Nave) Comy, was born Feb. 13, 1944, in Hominy, Okla., and passed from this life June 21 at her daughter’s home in Grand Junction.

She lived her life to the age of 76 years, four months and eight days.

Josie attended the Oaks Indian Mission School as a child and graduated from Hominy High School in Hominy, Okla. 

In 1970, while living in Los Angeles, Josephine was married to Carl Morehouse in Tijuana, Mexico. Four children were born to this union.

They moved to Hopkins, Mo., in 1974 and later divorced in 1980. After the divorce, Josie moved her family to Marysville, Mo., where she met the love of her life, Don Wardlow, in 1981. They were together until his death in 2006.

During her adult life, Josie worked as a certified nursing assistant. She loved fishing, traveling, cooking and most of all spending time with her family.

She moved to Grand Junction in 2008 to live with her daughter and son-in-law, where she resided until her passing.

She is survived by her children and their spouses: Carl (Kristy) Morehouse, of Des Moines; Steve (Kittie) Morehouse, of Indianola; Jo (Tony) Jones, of Grand Junction; and Chad (Tracy) Morehouse, of Casey; stepdaughter Becky Davis; and grandchildren Colby, Tori, Caitlin, Dalton and Cole. 

Those who preceded her were her mother; life partner Don; and a brother, Johnny Nave

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. June 27 at the Grand Junction Community Center.

Cards and memorials may be sent to her daughter, Jo Jones, at 403 14th St. South, Grand Junction, IA 50107.

Brown Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Mary Coan Geisler was born the daughter of John and Agnes (Fickbohm) Coan on July 2, 1919, in Perry, and passed from this life June 29 at her rural home near Churdan.

She lived a full life to the age of 100 years, 11 months and 27 days.

Mary’s mother died when Mary was 18 months old and her father could not care for his five children. Mary’s mother’s sisters stepped forward to care for the children and Mary’s aunt, Emily Connelly, and her husband, Patrick, took Mary into their home. They raised Mary and later legally adopted her.

Mary attended country school and graduated from Churdan High School in 1936 at the age of 16. She then attended Cherokee Jr. College and the University of Northern Iowa, receiving a teacher’s certificate. She returned to Churdan and taught in country school during the height of the Great Depression, which left an indelible impression on her. 

Her favorite subject was history and she was an avid book reader. It is thought that she had read more than 5,000 books from the Churdan Public Library.

On May 23, 1944, Mary Coan was united in marriage to Edward Geisler Jr. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Eight children were born to this union: Sylvene, Patrick, John, Jerry, Anne, Andy, Daniel and David. 

After marriage, Mary semi-retired from full-time teaching but would do substitute teaching. She fully retired in 1955. 

Ed and Mary farmed and raised their family in the Churdan area. They moved into Churdan in the early 1970s and Mary enjoyed helping at the Brown Funeral Home, where her assistance was greatly appreciated. They moved back to the family farm in 1988. Ed passed away 1989 and Mary continued to live on the farm until her death. 

Mary was a lifelong member of St. Patrick and later St. Columbkille Catholic Churches. Mary joined the Catholic Daughters of America in 1947 and was a member for 83 years. She was also a member of the Rosary Society, 50-year church choir member and taught religious classes for 25 years.

Mary was always thankful for her full life but had many times of great sadness, especially the deaths of four of her children. 

She is survived by her children: Patrick (Marice) Geisler; John (Marian) Geisler; Anne (Joe) Minnehan; and Andy Geisler; daughter-in-law Deb Geisler, all of Churdan; 22 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Those who preceded her in death were her parents; husband; children Sylvene, Jerry, Daniel and David; sons-in-law Gary Hatfield and Todd Mount; grandsons Ryan Geisler and Brandi Baugh; great-granddaughter Lola Geisler; brother Gene Coan; and three sisters: Dorothy Pitzen, Pauline Brennon and Helene Kopp. 

A private family Mass will be held July 2 — Mary’s 101st birthday — at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church at Cedar with Father John Gerald officiating.

Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Musical selections will be played by organist Lois Last, with Greg Carey serving as cantor. Mary had requested that “Ave Maria” be sung at her funeral. It will be sung by Steve and Greg Carey.

Casket bearers will be her grandsons: Jason Hatfield, John Geisler Jr., Greg Geisler, Jerad Mount, Kirk Geisler and Spencer Geisler. 

Memorials are suggested to be given to St. Patrick’s Historical Church Fund or the Churdan Public Library.

Brown Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Rudolph (Rudy) Walter Johnson, 88, passed away peacefully on June 25 while in hospice care at the Greene County Medical Center.

A funeral service was held June 27 at the First United Methodist Church in Jefferson, with words of comfort by the Rev. Charlie Thompson, of Greenbrier Methodist Church.

Music included “What Child Is This,” with soloist Gary Haupert and accompanist Lula Garnes.

Casket bearers were Steve Schnebly, Doug Lawton, Rod Frederick, Gene Weaver, Luke Hoyle and Matthew Hoyle.

Interment was in the Greenbrier Twp. Cemetery.

Graveside military rites were given by the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard, Jefferson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9599 and Floyd Brown American Legion Post 11, with Victoria Chargo, bugler.

Rudy was born Sept. 13, 1931, in Chicago to Gust and Taletta Husvik Johnson. The family moved to the farm in Greenbrier Twp. in 1937. Rudy lived, then farmed there, the rest of his life.

Rudy graduated from Bayard High School in 1951. As a youth, he was involved in 4-H, basketball and softball.  As an adult, Rudy continued playing sports for many decades.

In 1952, Rudy became a Marine and was stationed in Japan for two years during the Korean War. He was also in the Reserves for six years, receiving an honorable discharge in April 1960.

He was a 58-year member of the American Legion.

Rudy belonged to Floyd W. Brown American Legion Post 11 and David M. Mosher VFW Post 9599. Rudy honorably represented both organizations by faithfully performing military funeral honors and Memorial Day services. He also served as color guard for parades and football games.

Karen McCool and Rudy were married on Dec. 4, 1966, in Guthrie Center. They were divorced in 1984.

As a regular blood donor, Rudy was able to donate more than 50 gallons. Rudy was also a cancer survivor and participated in the Survivors Walk at the Greene County Relay for Life.

Rudy and longtime friend LaVonne were avid dancers (waltzing was their favorite) for almost 20 years.

While a lifelong member of the Greenbrier United Methodist Church, Rudy faithfully attended Sunday services.

Rudy is survived by his brother, Charles (Susan) Johnson; several nieces and nephews and their children; and brother-in-law Dennis Naughton.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Anne Naughton.

Rudy’s final resting place is Greenbrier Twp. Cemetery alongside his parents.

Memorials may be made to Greenbrier United Methodist Church, VFW Post 9599 in Jefferson, American Legion Post 11 in Jefferson, or the Relay for Life of Greene County.

Services were arranged by the Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home.

Dean LeRoy Foster was born in Belmond on Jan. 31, 1958, to Gerald and Norma (Swain) Foster. He died in Jefferson on June 25 at the age of 62.

Visitation was held July 1 at the Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. July 2 in the Junction Twp. Cemetery, Grand Junction, with words of comfort by Bill Allen, lay leader, of First Baptist Church, Jefferson.

Graveside military rites will be given by the United States Army Honor Guard, Jefferson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9599 and Floyd Brown American Legion Post 11. 

Dean attended Bismarck High School in Bismarck, Ark., and graduated in the Class of 1976. 

After high school, Dean attended college at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark. In May of 1980, Dean entered the Army through the ROTC program, where he served 12 years and attained the rank of captain before being discharged to serve in the Reserves in July of 1992, upon which he attained the rank of major.

During his time in the Army, he participated in both Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

He also met and married Beth Lucinda “Cindy” Rhoades.  They had two children: Anna Helfen (née Foster) and Christopher Adam Foster.

Dean began civilian life by working as a store manager before moving on to drive a semi for many years. He founded his own trucking company, A Friend Trucking, aptly named because he enjoyed answering the phone, “You’ve got a friend!” He enjoyed the open road, meeting new people and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His dog, Random, was his faithful traveling companion for many years. 

After retiring from trucking, Dean went to work for a local farmer, Dennis Murphy, assisting with chores, farming, cattle and transporting of grain.

Dean’s health eventually kept him from working. He was retired at the time of his death.

Dean is survived by his children: Anna (Allen) Helfen and Christopher Adam Foster, both of Ohio; his mother, Norma Pollock, and stepfather, Ron Pollock, of Jefferson; brother Robert Foster, of Germany; stepsiblings Robin Pollock, of North Carolina; Terri (Joel) Tiffany, of Grand Junction; and Ron (Heather) Pollock Jr., of Jefferson; and nephews Benjamin Foster and Alexander Foster; Tyler Tiffany; Keyden Pollock; and niece Gabby Pollock; and other family and friends.

Dean was predeceased by his brother, Alan Foster; his father, Gerald Foster; and grandparents.

Juanita Childers Pritchett, 87, of Vale, N.C., passed away July 4 at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

Born Sept. 17, 1932, in Otoe County, Neb., she was the daughter of the late Joseph A. Childers and the late Edith A. Bird Childers.

In addition to her parents, husband John J. Pritchett, brothers Wilber Childers, Joseph Childers and Jerry Childers, and sisters Edith C. Pauley and Connie C. Swanger preceded her in death.

Juanita was known as Grandma Bear — Grand (highest in rank, immense, awe-inspiring, most)/Ma mother (loving, protector, provider, teacher)/Bear (fierce, cuddly, to carry or support, as in bear the load).

Left to cherish her memory are two sons: James Pritchett and wife Juli Ann, of Ames; and Joseph Pritchett and wife Kimberly, of Vale, N.C.; two daughters: Julie P. Deaton and husband Ron, of Sherrills Ford, N.C.; and Jean P. Torbett and husband Brian, of Vale, N.C.; 14 grandchildren; 19 great- grandchildren; 193 foster children that she cared for.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Visit burkemortuary.com to register your condolences.

Burke Mortuary in Maiden, N.C., is serving the Pritchett family.

Sandra Jean (Clark) Durbala, 62, of Hills, passed on July 1 surrounded by family.

Sandy was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend and advocate.

Sandy was born May 8, 1958, in Jefferson to Dean and Shirley Clark.

She attended Jefferson Community High School and continued her education at the American Institute of Business, graduating in 1977 with an associate’s degree.

Sandy went on to work in the banking industry at Brenton Bank in Jefferson and First National Bank in Iowa City.  She transitioned to the field of fundraising and worked for Grinnell College and Prelude Behavioral Services. 

In seeing the amount of work she could accomplish in a day, one would be surprised to know that Sandy described herself as “not-a-morning-person.” Always a planner, moving from list to list, project to project, Sandy did not sit still until the end of the day when it was time to snuggle in her favorite recliner with a blanket to watch the political commentaries of the day. 

Sandy was passionate about gardening and home remodeling — painstakingly personally refurbishing an early 20th century craftsman home in Grinnell to its original glory. Sandy was never afraid to tackle any project big or small. She loved the smell of sawdust.

Sandy had a lifelong thirst for learning. She craved documentaries, thought-provoking podcasts, NPR and PBS. Sandy was passionate about social justice issues — marching for women’s rights, advocating for LGBTQ rights and raising money and awareness for women in recovery. She felt an obligation to justice and social responsibility. She truly left an impact on her family, lifelong friends, co-workers and those less fortunate, and has left a tremendous legacy in her children and grandchildren.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Mike Durbala; four children: Erin McCandless (Jacob), Monica Fitzgibbon, Paul Durbala and Cassandra Moser (Jordan); and eight grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother, Shirley Clark, of Jefferson; sisters Sheri Heisdorffer (Duane) and Cindy Goodrich (Doug), brother Dave Clark (Sam Elias); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her father, Dean Clark; her father-in-law, Bob Durbala; and grandchild, Charlie Fitzgibbon.

In true form, Sandy was very independent and fought to the very end, all the while never losing her compassion for others, her humor and sarcasm.

Sandy’s wishes were not to have any services at this time as she greatly understood the importance of remaining safe during this time.

Family will host a celebration of life at some point in the future. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting you make a donation to a social justice charity of your choosing.

Graveside services for Rick Comer, 64, of Grand Junction, will be held at 10:30 a.m. July 11 at Violet Hill Cemetery, Perry. Father John Gerald, of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson, will officiate.

Ricky Eugene Comer was born Jan. 31, 1956, to Eugene (Gene) and Marjorie (Kiner) Comer in Perry. Rick grew up and graduated high school in Cheyenne, Wyo. He worked briefly in the music business and then worked construction for most of his life. 

Rick moved to Grand Junction in 1982, where he lived until his death. Rick never met a stranger. He was a friend to all. His antics and fun-loving nature amused everyone.

Ricky died June 28 at his home.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene.

He is survived by his mother, Marjorie, of Cheyenne; brother Edward (Nikkie), of Tennessee; sister Kathleen (Steve) Lansford, of Denver, Colo.; much family and many, many friends.

Please make any memorial donations in Rick’s honor to Hospice Medical Center of Iowa or to the Iowa Donor Network.

Cards may be sent in care of Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, 119 W. Lincoln Way, Jefferson, IA 50129. Online condolences may be left at sliningerschroeder.com.

Ronald Dale Lawson, 80, of Boone, passed away surrounded by family on July 6.

He was born on April 11, 1940, in Webster County, the son of Wayne and Arlene Lawson. 

Ron was raised on their family farm in the Jefferson area, along with his two brothers, Gary and Ed Lawson. Working on the farm was where Ron developed his strong work ethic and humble nature. 

On Sept. 20, 1963, Ron was united in marriage to Diana Kafer. The couple later welcomed two daughters, Lynn and Susan.

Ron served in the Iowa Air National Guard in Fort Dodge from October 1962 to September 1968. Along with his military service, he spent time working for Western Electric, Northwestern Bell and AT&T. With the help of his wife, Ron started his business, Lawson Communications, in September of 1991. Ron was dedicated to the telephone business until his retirement in 2015 after 55 years of work.

Following his retirement, Ron spent his time enjoying coffee and company at the Dutch Oven bakery, weekly supper clubs with friends, attending his grandchildren’s activities, working in his yard or on home improvements with his grandson, and traveling with his wife and family. Ron was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Boone. 

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Arlene Lawson.

He is survived by his wife, Diana Lawson; daughters Lynn (Tim) Johnson and Sue (Mark) Lawson; grandchildren Lance and Taylor Johnson; and two brothers, Gary Lawson and Ed (Donna) Lawson. 

The family will have a private graveside service at Linwood Park Cemetery in Boone, with Pastor Matthew Martens officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be used at their discretion.

Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, 609 7th St., Boone, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at schroederfuneral.com.

Kay Ann (Burger) Marten, of West Des Moines, passed peacefully into heaven Saturday evening, July 11, surrounded by her loved ones.  

Kay was born Oct. 19, 1937, in Ida Grove to Albert and Ruby Burger, and grew up in Jefferson.

Kay attended the big old grade school. That terrifying first day move from fourth to the fifth grade, a floor above, was made easier when she looked up those stairs and standing at the top leaning against the post was a confident tall boy wearing round brown plastic glasses, staring down at her.  He smiled, she felt it and that was it — he was her world for the rest of her life!

Kay excelled on the clarinet and Denny on the trumpet, so they often walked together to the big high school to play in the marching band and orchestra. Both were first chair, both went to state level each year. Denny attended U of Iowa and Kay, Drake. They married July 8, 1956.

Over the years, Kay worked in various business offices in Des Moines and taught English courses at Des Moines Area Community College. Kay loved spending time with her family, playing the piano, shopping, camping and traveling with her grandchildren. She enjoyed the outdoors and passionately cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. She made every occasion special, and probably with matching decorations!

Shortly after retiring, Kay and Denny moved to Branson, Mo., where they lived happily for nine years before returning to Des Moines in 2013. Kay loved the music shows in Branson, learned to play golf, hosted many at their home, fished and enjoyed playing cards with her family and friends.

Kay is survived by her husband of 64 years, Denny; daughter Debra (Kevin) Kading; son David (Karen) Marten; brother Bill (Sheri) Burger; sister-in-law Linda Marten; brother-in-law Tom (Diann) Marten; Cynthia Burger, sister-in-law; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  

She was lovingly referred to as “Gigi” by her grandkids.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents; sister Julie (Ted)Riley; brother Jon Burger; sister-in-law Norma (Richard)Smith; great-granddaughters Emma and Madison Bright.

Several small celebration-of-life gatherings with family and friends will be held at later dates.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff on Powell 3 at Methodist Hospital and the John Stoddard Cancer Center for their endless care, compassion and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jefferson High School marching band, where Kay and Denny’s music first began. 

Checks made out to:

Greene County School Foundation, memo “high school band,” 204 W. Madison St., Jefferson, IA 50129

Or to:

Venmo@JeffersonMarchingBand-memorial         

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Katherine Marie Geisler, daughter of Albert and Lucille (Schmidt) Geisler, was born on Dec. 31, 1958, in the Jefferson Hospital. She was the older of two children.

Kathy graduated from Paton-Churdan Community School in 1977 with a “perfect attendance record.” Kathy started her love for nursing at age 16, beginning as a nurse’s aide in Long Term in Jefferson.

After her high school graduation, she attended Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. She graduated in 1979 as a registered nurse. She began work at the Greene County Medical Center in 1979, working in the OBGYN department and later was named house supervisor.

From the hospital, she transferred to the Jefferson Clinic in 1989, which later became McFarland Clinic, where she was currently working. In her 41-year nursing career, her greatest love was caring for the patients.

Kathy enjoyed traveling when she could, over the years going to California several times to visit family, Mexico and Germany. She especially enjoyed taking a trip to Australia and New Zealand, where she went for a nursing seminar.

Kathy also had a passion for playing her clarinet, especially her time in the Town and Country Band. Kathy had read the Bible through many times as she had a great faith in Christ. She was a member of the Gospel Open Bible Church.

Kathy always enjoyed the many, many visits of her little cousins, always teaching them something new. This included “driving lessons,” school work, to be careful, to come back soon, and always reminding them to wash their hands!

Kathy passed away on July 13 at the Mary Greeley Israel Hospice House in Ames.

She was preceded in death by her father, Albert, in 2012; her mother, Lucille, in 2017; her grandparents, Alva and Clara Schmidt, and Emilie and William Geisler.

She is survived by her sister, Barbara Geisler, of Paton; her aunt, Edith Geisler, of Fort Dodge; several cousins; other relatives; and many friends.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. July 17 at Gospel Open Bible Church in Jefferson, with words of comfort by Pastor Chad Cummings.

Music will include the hymns “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace,” with accompanist Danille Curtis, and “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe.

Casket bearers will be Nick Miller, Conner Juergensen, Cale Juergensen, Eli Riedesel, Gage Behrens and Matt Johnson.

Nursing career tribute will be given by the Unity Point Trinity Honor Guard.

Interment will be in the Jefferson Cemetery.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Frank Joe Spaulding, 72, of Des Moines, passed away peacefully at his home on July 6.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

On the day of June 16, Robert (Bob) Jon Minnihan, of Rancho Mirage, Calif., died at the age of 83.

Bob was born to Louis and Katherine Minnihan on Dec. 10, 1936, in Jefferson. He received his degree in mechanical engineering in 1958 from Iowa State University

Bob enjoyed racquetball, skiing and sailing. He was affectionately known by his friends as “Captain Bob.”

He believed in being fair in all matters.

Bob started Dynamic Systems Inc., a successful business in wastewater treatment technology, where he served as CEO and president until his retirement in 2002. After retirement, Bob was an active member of Rotary International.

His blue eyes, silver hair and warm smile touched everyone he met.

Bob is preceded in death by his father, mother and son, Peter.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia; his son, Paul, and mother Katharine; his stepdaughter, Erin Johnson; and his grandson, Conor Crissy. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Linda); sister Marcia; nieces Lisa (Chuck) and Julia; and nephews Eric (Michelle) and Doug.

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to Books for Africa, booksforafrica.org.

Sharon Kay Webb, 76, of Bagley, passed away on July 14 at her home.

Sharon was born at Greene County Hospital to Frank and Hazel Scheuermann. She grew up in the Cooper/Winkleman Switch area with her 10 brothers and sisters.

Sharon graduated from Jefferson Community High School. After high school, she moved to Des Moines, where she met her husband, Lance Webb. They were united in marriage in 1964. They settled at their home in Bagley shortly after.

Sharon worked as a secretary for more than 30 years at Y.J.B. Community Schools and Panorama Schools before retiring in 2008.

Sharon enjoyed going out to eat with friends and family. She loved her vacations to Branson, Mo., and being a fan girl of Joseph Hall (Elvis impersonator).

More than anything, Sharon loved visiting with family, friends, neighbors and kids of all ages. Sharon had a huge heart, a giving soul and an infectious laugh. Her hugs are legendary!

Sharon is survived by daughter Lanette Webb, of Bagley; and son Mike Webb, of Bagley; sister Esther Monthei (Larry), of Cooper; brothers Vern Scheuermann (Margaret), of Des Moines, and Gary Scheuermann, of Scranton.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Lance Webb; brothers Ralph, Bob, Darwin, Jerry and Larry; sisters Betty Day and Marian Monthei.

Sharon wished to be cremated following her death, without any visitation or funeral. Her daughter has upheld her wishes and will have a graveside service at a later date. The service will be followed by a CELEBRATION of Sharon’s life. Details will be posted at a later date.

Sharon’s family wishes to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers during this difficult time.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home is assisting the family.  Online condolences may be left at sliningerschroeder.com.

Loren Edward Jessen, 69, of Baxter, passed away after a 16-year battle from Parkinson’s Disease on July 18 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

A visitation was held July 22 at Fredregill Funeral & Cremation Care in Baxter, with a funeral service immediately following.

Burial will take place in the Union Cemetery in Pomeroy at 1 p.m. July 25.

Loren was born on June 15, 1951, to Frank and Viola (Dose) Jessen in Sioux City. As a kid, he was always his dad’s right-hand man.

He grew up in Climbing Hill and Cedar Falls, until the family moved to Fort Dodge. Loren graduated from Fort Dodge High School with the class of 1969. 

He met the love of his life, Sylvia Schoon, in Fort Dodge. After school, Loren relocated to Scranton and began working with his dad.

He married Sylvia at the Lutheran Church in Glidden on Aug. 1, 1971. The couple ran a Polaris Dealership and a restaurant in Scranton until Loren began working as a machinist in Jefferson. In 1993, the family relocated to Baxter and Loren began working at Maytag. In 2005, he retired from Maytag. 

Loren loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them. He also enjoyed tinkering, manufacturing things, camping, Minnesota Vikings football, softball, working on his house and anything Cub Cadet. 

Those left to cherish his loving memory are his wife, Sylvia Jessen, of Baxter; sons Daniel (Tracy) Jessen, of Baxter, and David Jessen, of Baxter; mother Viola Jessen; grandchildren Heather, Holly, Bailey, Riley, Drake and Beau; many great-grandchildren; siblings Larry (Alisha) Jessen, Leon Jessen, Lyle Jessen and Lonnie Jessen; sister-in-law Cindy (Steven Swenson) Lange; many nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank; sisters Lila Jessen and Linda Eads.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. 

Fredregill Funeral & Cremation Care has been entrusted with the care of Loren and his family.

Isabel Margaret (Kacmarynski) Smith, 87, of Jefferson, passed away July 17 at home surrounded by her family.  

Visitation was held at the Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson on July 20, with funeral services at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jefferson on July 21.

Mass was celebrated by Father John Gerald, with lector Tom Feldmann and music by Sheila Pound (soloist) and Lois Last (accompanist).

Casket bearers were Jay Lyon, Rich Lyon, Steve Finn, Tom Schmit, Steve Andrusyk and Luke Andrusyk.

Interment will be at the Catholic cemetery in Jefferson.

Isabel Smith was born on May 12, 1933, in Mallard to John Kacmarynski and Mary (Olsen) Kacmarynski. Isabel graduated high school in 1951 from Mallard.

Wayne and Isabel were married Sept. 1, 1951. They started their married life in Emmetsburg. They moved to Alexandria, Va., in 1952 while Wayne was in the service. They moved to Jefferson in 1955.

In addition to being a homemaker, she held various positions, including city hostess, insurance processor at the Jefferson Clinic and worked with clients at the Genesis group homes.

She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.  She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, where she served as grand regent and she enjoyed ministering to the homebound.

She volunteered her services in many other areas in the community, including delivering Meals on Wheels, Pink Lady in the Hospital Auxiliary and Bell Tower guide.

Her family was very important to her, and was involved in their activities including a Camp Fire leader, Cub Scout leader, and was a mentor through the school system.

She was fun loving and competitive, playing Bridge, Scrabble, Yahtzee and many other games. She always had a puzzle on the table and completed a large number over the years. She loved to read and usually had one or two books checked out from the library. She was a master gardener and shared her vegetables with family and friends.

She loved sewing and quilting. She made a quilt for every grandchild when they graduated high school. She made numerous dresses for the organization Little Dresses For Africa.

Isabel loved to travel, including trips with Wayne and family to England, Ireland, Italy, France, Alaska and Hawaii. She traveled all over the country visiting her children and grandchildren, including Florida, Colorado, California and Missouri. She visited numerous national parks and monuments and loved learning about each site.

Isabel and Wayne belonged to Lakeside Golf Course for many years. Isabel was a dedicated exerciser and belonged to the rec center and walked many miles on the track and treadmills and the streets of Jefferson.

Isabel knew no strangers. She took the time to introduce herself and make new friends.

Isabel was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Wayne; her parents, John and Mary Kacmarynski; her brothers Bernard Kacmarynski and Phillip Kacmarynski; and sister Veronica (Kacmarynski) Schmit; and son-in-law Jack Lyon. 

From their union they had seven children: Diane Lyon, of Ames; Kathryn (John) Evers, of Ankeny; Denise (Steve) Andrusyk, of Fort Collins, Colo.; Janet (Harry) Koehler, of St. Louis; Timothy (Jody) Smith, of Jacksonville, Fla.; Christine (Steve) Finn, of Bettendorf; and David (Ginger) Smith, of Rocklin, Calif.

Grandchildren include: Jay (Tina) Lyon, Richard Lyon, Nicole Oliver, Elisha (Carl) Kubalsky, Aja (JR) Gregory, Luke (Molly) Andrusyk, Eric (Keri) Koehler, Alex (Cailin) Smith, Allison (Ben) Baker, Kayla Finn, Sari Finn, Emma Smith and Maddeline Smith.  

Great-grandchildren are: Taylor Lyon, Jack Lyon, Maya Lyon, Dobry Kruszka, Scout Kruszka, Priya Kubalsky, Alina Kubalsky, Addy Gregory, Barrett Gregory, Cohen Gregory, Fritz Koehler, Charles Koehler, Sage Smith, Leo Smith, Ryan Smith, Mae Smith, Ryland Baker, Wyatt Baker, Landon Baker, Landon Andrusyk, and one on the way.

She is survived by her sisters, MaryAnn (Kacmarynski) Wagner and Patricia (Kacmarynski) Twait; and brother John Kacmarynski; many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, you may direct your memorials to the Jefferson Public Library or the Catholic Daughters of America.

Roseanne Lee Costello, daughter of Harold Lee Murphy and Gloria Choate Murphy, was born June 13, 1954, in Jefferson. She died at home with her family by her side on July 27.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. July 30 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Jefferson, with words of comfort by Father John Gerald.

Casket bearers will be Paul Costello, Nick Murphy, Jerry Murphy and Steve Murphy.

Roseanne grew up in Jefferson and graduated from Jefferson High School with the Class of 1973.

On Nov. 10, 1973, Roseanne married her high school sweetheart, Brian Costello. They made their home in Jefferson and were the proud parents of three children: Jennifer, LeeAnne and Paul.

She worked for many years as a clerk for Frigidaire and then later Electrolux before retiring. Roseanne loved to can vegetables and make salsa. She also enjoyed doing crafts, especially crocheting.

Most of all she loved spending time with her family; they meant more to her than anything in the world.

Roseanne was preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister, Susan Murphy; and a grandson, Justin Wika.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Costello, of Jefferson; her children: Jennifer (Brian) Wika, of Rio Rancho, N.M.; LeeAnne (John) Sorensen, of Henderson, Nev.; and Paul Costello, of Jefferson; two grandchildren: Jason Wika and Johannah Wika; her siblings: John Murphy, of Jefferson; Steve Murphy, of Jefferson; Jerry Murphy, of Jefferson; Michelle (Dale) Shriver, of Ankeny; and Andy (Judy) Murphy, of Jefferson; nieces; nephews; other relatives; and friends.

Memorials in honor of Roseanne are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home is assisting the family.