Surls Funeral Home - Obituaries

Obituaries

Lorene Darlene Kempthorne, 80, of Spicer, Minnesota entered into eternal rest on June 25th, 2008 after a battle with cancer. Born, Lorene D Meinberg, in Geneva, Iowa on April 13, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Rhina and Fredrick Meinberg. She moved to Spicer, Minnesota in 1972, where she enjoyed her life with friends, family and community. Active in both Polka and Ballroom dance and appreciated for her outstanding knitting and crochet. Lorene had a special love for birds and especially Hummingbirds. She was preceded by her husband Gerald C. Kempthorne, October, 1980, and a brother Lavern Meinberg. She will forever be remembered by her family, her son Bradley Kempthorne and fiancé Heidy Rodriquez, of Parkland, Florida, Grandson, Jason Kempthorne and fiancé Amanda Bachman, of Montrose, Minnesota, Granddaughter Jennifer and husband Nicholas Wolfe of Buffalo, Minnesota and Great Granddaughter Hailey Wolfe and nieces and nephew. Funeral services with visitation to celebrate the life of Lorene will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2008, from 10:00 - 11:30 AM at Surls Funeral Home, 505 Stevens Street, Iowa Falls, Iowa, 50126, (641) 648-9554 and burial to follow at North Lawn Cemetery, Iowa Falls, Iowa.

Emma Harken, age 87 of Ackley, died on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Tuesday at the United Methodist Church in Ackley with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery, Ackley. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Monday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Richard L. Rose, age 90, of Iowa Falls, died on Friday, July 4, 2008 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Tuesday at the United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls with a 2:30 P.M. graveside service at the Crystal Township Cemetery, in Crystal Lake. There will be a reception held at the Crystal Lake Methodist Church following the graveside services.Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Monday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Richard LeRoy Rose was born June 14, 1918 at Crystal Lake, Iowa the son of Harry and Esta Tembey Rose. He received his education at Crystal Lake and graduated from Crystal Lake High School with the class of 1936. Richard served his country in the U.S. Army. He married Myrtle White, May 18, 1949 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. They made their home in Iowa Falls where Richard owned and operated the Rose Shell Service Station until his retirement in 1986. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Hyman-Peavy American Legion Post # 188, UCT, Meadow Hills Golf Course, and was a 62 year member of the Iowa Falls Elks Club B.P.O.E. Lodge #1674. Richard enjoyed golf, cards and pool in his free time.
He is survived by his wife, Myrtle of Iowa Falls, son, Douglas Rose and his wife, Anne of Waterloo, a daughter, Mary E. Miller and her husband, Meredith of Marshalltown; granddaughters, Liz Fogle and husband, Ben of Urbandale and Christi Lowry and husband, Nate of West Des Moines; three great grandchildren, Landen and Garrett Fogle and Morgan Rose Lowry; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert and Joanne White of Ventura and sister-in-law, Darlene Rose of Tucson, AZ.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother and two sisters.

Marvin R. Richtsmeier, age 67 of Ackley, was found at his home on Sunday, June 15, 2008. Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at the St. John's United Church of Christ in Ackley with burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Ackley. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Tuesday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with family receiving friends from 6-8 P.M.
Full Military Rites by the Elliott-Keninger American Legion Post #252

Marvin Roy Richtsmeier was born on October 7, 1940 in Iowa Falls, the son of Roy and Clara (Steinfeldt) Richtsmeier. He graduated from the Ackley High School in 1958. He had farmed all of his life. He was a member of the National Guard, N.R.A., Elliott-Keninger American Legion Post #252 and previous member of the St. John's United Church of Christ.
Marvin is survived by his son, Derek Richtsmeier and his wife, Jen of Wellsburg; a daughter, Dorann Richtsmeier and her special friend, Alex Norman of Des Moines; two grandchildren, Cole and Erin Richtsmeier; a sister, Joan Struck and her husband, Darrell of Ackley; a nephew, Jay Struck of Ackley; and an aunt, Avis Steinfeldt of Eldora.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

Amos Keck, age 74, of Iowa Falls died on Sunday, June 15, 2008 at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown . Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Wednesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with burial in the Friends Cemetery, Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Tuesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. Full Military Rites provided by the Hyman-Peavey American Legion Post #188 of Iowa Falls.

Amos Keck was born on November 15, 1933, the son of James and Bertha (Douglas) Keck. He attended school in Arkansas and was a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Amos was united in marriage to Frances Kay Mauderer on December 12, 1966. He had been a truck driver.
Amos is survived by his daughter, Linda Brannick and her husband, David of Bradford; two sons, John Keck of Rockford and James Keck of Mason City; an adopted son, Norman Lehmann and his wife, Colleen of Orange City; and five grandchildren Cory, Justin, LaTasha, Taten, and Rainey.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Mary E. Owens, age 89, of Iowa Falls and Des Moines, died on Sunday, June 8, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 3:00 P.M. Wednesday at the United Methodist Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 hours prior to services on Wednesday at the church. Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.
Mary was born on October 6, 1918 in Franklin County, Iowa, growing up in the Alden area. She graduated from Alden High School in 1936. She was a teacher, attending Iowa Falls Teachers College and Drake University, attaining a masters degree. She taught most of her career in the Des Moines school system. Like all great teachers, education was a calling for her. She was preceded in death by her brother Alvin Smith, mother Emma Smith, father Earl Smith, and husband David.
She is survived by her cousin Lois Haaland, her niece Susan Westerdahl, her nephews Craig Smith and Steven Smith, and their families. Mary enjoyed her cats, bird watching, the outdoors, sports and politics.
Condolences may be left at www.surls.com or sent to Susan Westerdahl at 5607 Oliver Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419.

Claus Prins, age 88, of Ackley, died on Sunday, June 1, 2008 at his home. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, June 7th at the United Methodist Church in Ackley with burial in the Hazelgreen Cemetery, rural Ackley. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley. Memorials may be directed to the Ackley Veterans Memorial, PO Box 122, Ackley, Iowa, 50601.
Claus was born on March 19, 1920 in Bellingwolde, Holland to Elzo and Harmke (Hartog) Prins. He immigrated to the United States as a toddler. He attended Country School at South Prairie Hill and Robertson. He lived with his family on various farms in Hardin and Franklin counties during his youth. Claus was drafted and later inducted into the Army on January 7, 1942 and became a naturalized U.S. citizen at that time. He served in the Pacific Theater with the First Cavalry Division 43rd Quartermaster Company until October 23, 1945. He was on a ship in the Bay of Tokyo the day the peace accord with Japan was signed. Upon returning home from the service, he started farming with his father near Macy. He continued farming after his father's death. Claus retired to Ackley in 1981. Claus enjoyed a good game of cards, socializing with friends and a slow drive through the town and country. When he was younger, he also traveled to many parts of the United States.
Claus was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Metje Prins and Mattie Struthoff; his brother, Peter Prins; a nephew, Calvin Prins; great-nephew, Andy Prins and many close friends. He is survived by his nephews, John Prins of Iowa Falls, Marvin (Sue) Prins of Ames and nieces, Donna Mae (Everette) Kromminga of Greene and Marjean (Jeff) Clemons of Ackley, a niece-in-law, Sandy Prins of Phoenix, AZ; step-nieces and step-nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Harold F. Heinz, age 82, of Ackley, died on Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at St. John's U.C.C. in Ackley with private burial at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Monday at the Sietsema Funeral Home of Ackley. A memorial has been established to the Ministerial Association of Parkersburg, Iowa.
Harold Fredrick Heinz was born on February 5, 1926 in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the son of Fredrick and Elizabeth (Sailer) Heinz. He graduated from the Ackley High School in 1943 and was united in marriage to Mary Jane Harrington on October 2, 1949 in Ackley, Iowa. Harold had been a farmer all of his life. He was a member of the St. John's United Church of Christ, was on the St. John's UCC Board and Farmers Co-op Board, and was a Drainage District Trustee.
Harold is survived by his wife, Mary Jane of Ackley; two sons, Thomas (Tom) and his wife, Brenda of Ackley and Mark and his wife, Patricia of Ackley; a daughter, Judith (Judy) Crawford and her husband, Rolland of Iowa Falls; eight grandchildren, Stacy Mills and her husband, Dan of Phoenix, AZ, Margaret (Maggie) Malm and her husband, Jon of Baltimore, MD, Thomas J. Heinz of Ft. Dodge, Elizabeth (Libby) Heinz of Ackley, Joshua Crawford of Clear Lake, Nathan Crawford of Clear Lake, Madison Heinz of Ackley, and Meghan Heinz of Ackley; three great-grandchildren, Ben, Jack, and Sam Mills of Phoenix, AZ; and a sister, Lois Jean Meyer of Lake Forest, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Bobby Heinz; and a sister, Joan.

Hazel Marcella Richtsmeier age 86, of Ackley, died on Tuesday at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with a 6:30 P.M. Scripture Service. Memorials may be directed to the Presbyterian Village in Ackley.
Hazel Marcella Richtsmeier was born on August 22, 1921, the daughter of Martin "Frank" and Marie (Anders) Ellefson. She graduated from the Geneva High School. On December 9, 1943 she was united in marriage to Maurice Richtsmeier in Ackley, Iowa. She was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ackley.
Hazel is survived by her two sons, Michael and his wife, Carol of Bemidji, MN and Donald and his wife, Linda of Ackley; three daughters, Mary Dellwo and her husband, Bruce of Rosemount, MN, Ruth Schneider and her husband, Wayne of Jesup, and Rita Julius and her husband, Doug of West Bloomfield, MI; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Francie Richtsmeier of Coon Rapids, MN.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Maurice; a daughter, Mary Kathryn; two sons, Steven and John; a daughter-in-law, Marty; and a brother, Harold "Curly" Ellefson.

Rena Boyenga, age 95, of Ackley, died on Monday, May 19, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Thursday at the Washington Reformed Church, Ackley with burial in the First Reformed Cemetery, Everly, Iowa. Visitation will be one hour before services at the church on Thursday. Sietsema Funeral Home of Ackley is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be directed to the Washington Reformed Church of Ackley.

Rena Boyenga was born on March 9, 1913 in Fostoria, Iowa, the daughter of Louie and Hattie (Bleeker) Boyenga. She graduated from the Okoboji High School. Rena was a homemaker and had been a member of the Washington Reformed Church at Ackley.
Rena is survived by her two nieces, Sharon Born and her husband, John of West Des Moines and Sue Grimm of Arlington Heights, IL; two great-nephews, Mike Born and his wife, Vicki of Portland, OR and Jeff Grimm of Oak Park, IL; five great-nieces, Kelley Hovelsrud and her husband, Jerry of Unadilla, NE, Kris Obia and her husband, Charles of West Des Moines, Julie Pinks and her husband, Kyren of Des Moines, Wendy Milligan and her husband, Jim of Palatine, IL, and Laura Grimm of Mt. Prospect, IL; 8 great-great-nephews, Jake, Evan, Easton, Bowen, Jaren, Sawyer, Redek, and Isaiah; and 4 great-great-nieces, Amron, Larkin, Elleigh, and Emma.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Anne Oltrogge.
Special thanks to Anna Mae Diemer of Ackley, Rena's neighbor and a great help to her over the past few years.

Mildred L. Wulkau, age 94, of Williams, died on Monday, May 19, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Friday at the United Methodist Church in Williams with burial in the Williams Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-8 PM Thursday at the Surls Funeral Chapel in Williams. Memorials may be directed to the City of Williams Park Shelter, Williams United Methodist Church, or the City of Alden Humane Society.

Mildred Laura Wulkau was born on September 18, 1913, the daughter of L.J.S. (Larry) and Etta (Nicholson) Cheyne. She graduated from the Williams High School in 1930. On October 1, 1940 she was united in marriage to George C. Wulkau at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Mildred had been a past Post Master at the U.S. Post Office. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Williams; American Legion Auxiliary; and the American Postal Workers.
Mildred is survived by her daughter, Linda Halsne and her husband, Dennis of Slater; a son, Larry Wulkau of Williams; a grandson, Kenton Halsne and his wife, Kris of Huxley; a granddaughter, Susan Elsberry and her husband, Matt of Johnston; five great-grandchildren, Rylee Cahill, Regen and Renna Halsne, and Ava and Lauren Elsberry; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Carl (Mary) Wulkau of Carson City, NV; and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George in 1968; a brother, Donald S. Cheyne; a sister, Grace Jean Storm; and an infant granddaughter, Nancy Kay Halsne.

Dorothy Hazel Madden, age 93 of Iowa Falls, died on Monday, May 12, 2008 at the Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Thursday at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Hazel Madden was born August 14, 1914 at Iowa Falls, Iowa the daughter of William and Lulu Collier Ellison. She received her education in the local rural schools. She was united in marriage to Carroll Madden on March 24, 1934 at Webster City, Iowa. Dorothy kept busy as a farm hand, dish washer and baby sitter. Dorothy was a member of the First United Methodist Church, U.M.W., Prairie View Club, Tuesday Pals, Sunset Trimmers and Seniors United. She is survived by her daughter Jessie Birchard and husband Everett of Lake City, FL.; son-in-law, Bill Godsell of Iowa Falls; four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and three great great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son in infancy, two sisters, one brother, her husband, Carroll and a daughter, Geraldine Godsell.

Paul Humke, age 92, of Ackley, died on Sunday, May 11, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 17th at the First Presbyterian Church in Ackley with burial in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitaton will be 6 - 8 p.m. Friday May 16th at Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Paul Frederick Humke was born May 25, 1915 at Ackley, Iowa the son of Charles F. and Amanda (Ukro) Humke. He received his education in local schools and graduated from Ackley High School. He married Mildred Faye Schultz February 19, 1941 at Tama, Iowa. The couple made their home in rural Ackley. Paul was a lifetime farmer as well as a school bus driver for Ackley School's for 25 years. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Ackley. Survivors include his wife of over 67 years, Mildred of Ackley; three daughters, Pauline Hardman and husband Ron of Ackley, Charlene Beichley and husband Darwin of Waukee and Marlene Nichless and husband Hal of New Hope, MN.; grandsons, Shannon and Brandon Hardman of Ackley, Jason Beichley and wife Kaci of Olathe, KS. and Kevin Beichley of Ames. He was preceded in death by his parents, Amanda and Charles F. Humke and a grandson Aaron Beichley.

Jenniemae Francis, age 88, of Ackley, died on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. John's U.C.C. in Ackley with burial in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 - 5 p.m. Sunday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Jenniemae Francis was born on November 3, 1919 in Faulkner, Iowa, the daughter of Guy and Johanna (Freese) Francis. She received her early education at Grinnell, Brooklyn and Kellogg. She graduated from the Kellogg High School in 1937 and Grinnell College in 1941. She worked as a Chief Telephone Operator in Bondurant for 19 years, as a File Clerk and Data Processor at Grinnell College for 23 years, and then worked in Ackley. Jenniemae was a member of the St. John's United Church of Christ and the Willing Workers.
She is survived by her many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her adopted parents; biological parents, Roger Rotgers and Jana Freese Rotgers; brothers, John Rotgers, Rudolph Rotgers, Robert Rotgers, and Harry Rotgers; and two sisters, Tena Noble and Caroline Carrie Armstrong.

Wanda S. Chaplin, age 74 of Iowa Falls, died on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in Northlawn Memory Gardens. Visitation is 4 - 8 P.M. Friday with family receiving friends from 6 - 8 P.M. at Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Wanda Sophia Chaplin was born on May 7, 1933 in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the daughter of Henry and Mae (Stevens ) Schade. She attended Iowa Falls Schools. Wanda was united in marriage to Keith Chaplin on Februry 14, 1950 in Iowa Falls. She had retired from being a Nurses Aide at the hospital and nursing homes. She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, American Legion Auxiliary and the East Side Ladies.
Wanda is survived by her two sons, Felton Chaplin and his wife, Del Marie of Iowa Falls and Craig Chaplin of Iowa Falls; a daughter, Kimberly Mann and her husband, Randall of Mason City; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; many special people who called her "Grandma"; a sister, Marie Berges of Washington, MO; and many extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Keith; a daughter, June Garwick; a brother, Steven Schade; and a brother in law, Berkley Berges.

Colleen Tjaden, age 66, of Iowa Falls, died on Monday, April 21, 2008 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday at the St. Mark's Catholic Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Wednesday at the St. Mark's Catholic Church with a 7:00 P.M. Vigil Service. The Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.

Colleen Margaret Tjaden was born on July 22, 1941, the daughter of Clifford and Mercedes (Reinbold) Uhl. She graduated from the Schleswig High School. On June 24, 1972 Colleen was united in marriage to John "Jack" Tjaden in Iowa Falls. Colleen worked for Northwestern Bell, US West and Qwest, retiring after many years as an operator, supervisor and group manager. She was a member of the St. Mark's Catholic Church, American Legion Auxiliary, Telephone Pioneers, and Edgewood.
Colleen is survived by her husband, John "Jack" Tjaden; two daughters, Jacqueline Rieks and her husband, Don of Des Moines and Patricia Reece and her husband, Richard of Westerville, OH; a son, Ronald Tjaden and his wife, Stephanie of Mason City; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three sisters, Elaine Collins of Mapleton, LaVonne Friedrichsen of Mapleton, and Sharon Juelfs of Cushing; and three sisters-in-law, Lisa Hanson Uhl of Dougleston, NY, Judy Uhl Husted of Glendora, CA, and Mary Uhl of Oto.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Robert, Kenneth, Clifford and Alan Uhl; and a sister, Joan Glassel.

Phyllis LaVon Russell, age 79 of Hampton, died on Thursday, April 17, 2008 at Hampton Health Care Center in Hampton. Graveside service and burial will be 1:00 p.m. Monday at the Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak, Iowa. Visitation will be 2 - 4 p.m. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Phyllis LaVon Russell was born August 25, 1928 at Tracy, Iowa the daughter of William and Mary (Scott) Winegardner. She received her education in Des Moines and graduated from Des Moines East High School. She married Austin Russell, Jr. April 22, 1950 at Des Moines. Phyllis was the Executive Secretary to the editor of Better Homes and Gardens. She was a former member of the Waukee Christian Church. Phyllis will be remembered most for being a gracious wife, mother and grandmother who truly enjoyed her family. She is survived by her daughter, Mrs. Paula Cox and her husband John of Alden; one granddaughter, Monique Hall and her loving partner, Jay Vogel and children, David, Jewelle and Haylee all of Alden. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Brandt, one sister and two brothers.

Everett LaVerne Steven Griffin, age 80, of Ackley, died on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Memorial services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, April 26th at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with full military rites by Elliot - Keninger post #252 of the American Legion. A memorial has been established to the Presbyterian Village in Ackley.

Everett (Steve) Griffin was born December 21, 1927 at Charles City, Iowa the son of Edward and Florence (Hanson) Griffin. He received his education at Immaculate Conception Catholic School and graduated high school there. He served his country in WW II with the U.S. Army and later with the Merchant Marines. Everett was a drill press operator with John Deere in Moline, IL. for 15 years when his strokes forced him into retirement. He was a member of the American Legion. Survivors include his children, Vickie Kondora and her husband Terry of Ackley, Diane Hasley and her husband Bob of Simi Valley, CA., Jennifer Rudnitzki and her husband Norm of McGregor, IA. , Duane Griffin of Bellevue, WA. , Doug Griffin of Charles City, IA. , Peggy Wells of Manly, IA., Eric Griffin of Florida and Andrew Griffin of Charles City, IA.; 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren; three sisters, Arlene Lynes of Lansing, IA., Phyllis Bluhm and husband Roger of Waverly, IA. and Margaret Schwickerath of Charles City, IA.; one brother, Jesse Griffin and his wife Terri of Charles City, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers.

Carlene Joan Harty Steding, age 73, of Iowa Falls, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 4, 2008 at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Tuesday at St. Peter's United Church of Christ, rural Geneva with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Monday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Carlene was born on November 26, 1934 in Franklin County, Iowa, the daughter of Aeilt and Dena (Brower) Duit. She graduated from the Geneva High School, Ellsworth Community College and the Univ. of Northern Iowa. She was united in marriage to James Harty on December 15, 1956 at St. Peter's U.C.C. rural Geneva. After his death, she married Larry Steding on January 14, 2007 at St. Peter's U.C.C. Carlene had been a teacher with the Alden Community School District, retiring in 1993. She was a member of St. Peter's UCC serving in various capacities, Pleasant Hill Cemetery Society, Ellsworth Hospital Auxiliary, and Delta Kappa Gamma.
Carlene is survived by her husband, Larry Steding of Iowa Falls; two daughters, Vicky Beer and her husband, Gary of Boone and Becky Koenen and her husband, Darrell of Aplington; three grandsons, Colin Askelsen of Boone, Gregory Koenen of Aplington, and Thomas Koenen of Aplington; a granddaughter, Nicole Beer of Boone; three brothers, Duane Duit and his wife, Marge of Nevada, Virgil Duit and his wife, Audrey of Slater, Calvin Duit of Clear Lake; and two sisters, Norma Burman and her husband, Keith of Aplington and Lavonna Meyer and her husband, Marlan of Hampton; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and first husband, James Harty.

Maurice LeRoy Andrews ,87 of Ames died Tuesday at Riverside Manor in Ames. Graveside Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday at the Union Cemetery in Iowa Falls.

Maurice LeRoy Andrews was born December 28, 1920 in Lee Township, Franklin County, Iowa the son of George and Delight (Bump) Andrews. He received his education at rural Lee Township and graduated from Iowa Falls High School. He continued his education graduating from Ellsworth Community College and Iowa State University with a degree in Chemical Engineering. Maurice served his country in the United States Army. Maurice was a personal caregiver. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, life time member of American Legion and was an avid stamp collector. Survivors include his two sisters, Bonnie Smit of Steamboat Rock, IA. and Beatrice Marie Fraser of Chowchilla, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents and cousins.

Robert (Sammy) Shaner, 84 of Iowa Falls died on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Private family services will be held at a later date. Robert (Sammy) Shaner was born October 18, 1923 at Robertson, Iowa the son of Floyd and Ellen Shaner. He married Helen Shumaker October 13, 1949 at Iowa Falls. Robert owned and operated Smal-Fry Children's Store in Iowa Falls. He was a member of the First Congregational U.C.C. in Iowa Falls.Survivors include his son, Kerry of of Cedar Rapids and daughter, Janine Shaner of Iowa Falls. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and three sisters.

Gladys Hartkopp, age 83, of Iowa Falls, died on Monday, March 17, 2008 at the Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral services are 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery rural Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 5 - 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Gladys Pearl Hartkopp was born October 16, 1924 at Hampton, Iowa the daughter of Ray and Watchie Schoon Diemer. She married Ernest Hartkopp November 29, 1941 at Bethany, Missouri. Gladys was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls and a lifelong Hardin County resident. Survivors include her husband, Ernest, children, Charles Hartkopp and his wife Bonnie of Geneva, Ronald Hartkopp and his wife Laura of Iowa Falls, Marlene Merklin and her husband Bill Gross of Clear Lake; ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dallas Diemer and his wife Pat of Iowa Falls and Wallace Diemer and his wife Sharon of Hampton, Iowa; she was preceded in death by a son, Darwin and nine brothers and sisters.

Raymond Homan, age 90, of Ackley, died on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Wednesday at the St. John's United Church of Christ in Ackley with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-4 P.M. Tuesday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

On January 11, 1918, twin boys arrived in the Butler co. farm home of Frank and Margaret Puls Homan. They were named Raymond and Roy, and grew up with a sister, Helen. Ray had a typical childhood on the family far, learning that the work everyone did was of vital importance to the operation. He was educated from 8th grade in country school and recalled how cold the schoolhouse was until the stove could make it comfortable and the work it took to see there were supplies to fuel the stove. Part of the WWII generation, Ray served his country in the Field Artillery of the Army's 61st Cavalry. His unit suffered heavy losses in action in the Philippine's as they landed on beaches defended by the entrenched Japanese, some of whom fired on the Allied forces from positions in the trees to which they had tied themselves. Ray was on of the lucky survivors who served in that part of the word, but he did suffer a bout of malaria. After his discharge, Ray helped on the farm for awhile, then went to work in Ackley for Artis Hatchery for a time before beginning a long period of employment as a custodian the Ackley Elementary School.
Ray met and dated Lucile Sessler of Ackley, and they were married on August 6, 1946. They bought and lived in a house on the corner of First Ave. and State St. in Ackley for many years. It was conveniently located to the library, the school where Ray worked, their church, the post office and downtown. They raised one child, a son, John.
The Homans took pride in the upkeep of their house and small yard, enjoyed having some flowers and for a time kept a few chickens in a vacant lot next door. For many years, Ray was part of a successful bowling team, and those trophies remain some of his prized possessions. One of his best games was a 247, and he had the thrill of picking up the 7-10 split. He and Lucile both loved to go for drives and had the pleasure of car trips to visit John in Tennessee and to the Amana Colonies Ray like to do woodworking projects, and in retirement enjoyed being part of an early morning card group who met uptown.
Ray joined Lucile as a resident of the Village in April 2005. Ray attended St. John's UCC in Ackley and has been a proud member of the American Legion since 1946.
His remaining family is small. He is survived by a son, John, and his wife, Cindy Homan, who live in Nashville, TN; a sister, Helen Bergman of Ackley; a sister-in-law, Sophia Homan, who passed away on Monday morning, March 10th; nephews and nieces, Merlyn Cordes of Des Moines, Linda and Larry Epeley of Polk City, Gail and Doyle Osburn of Polk City, Joe and Kay Bergman of Cedar Falls, Cindy and Keith Balvanz of Wellsburg, Deb and Ron Kuhfus of Iowa Falls, Jim and Donna Bergman of Ames, and Mary Braga of Ankeny. He has no other living siblings, and they have no grandchildren.

Freda Emma Winter, age 94, of Iowa Falls, died on Tuesday, March 4, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-7 P.M. Friday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Freda was born on February 10, 1914 in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the daughter of Fred and Mollie (Gnade) Meyer. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1932 and attended Gregg's Business School in Chicago. Freda was united in marriage to Edgar Winter on November 29, 1941 in Chicago, IL. She had been a secretary at Continental Music Co., an Executive Secretary with Rustoleum and then worked part time for Marshall Fields, all in Chicago.After being a resident of Evanston, Il for 50 years, she moved back to Iowa Falls. She had been a member of the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls, United Methodist Women, Sarah Circle, Rustoleum Royal Scot, card clubs, the Hospital Auxiliary, and the Senior Center.
Freda is survived by her four sisters, Mildred Poland of Kewanee, Il, Wilma Wulke of Marshalltown, Arlene Smit of Iowa Falls, and Marilyn Furman and her husband, Dean of Bradford; a brother, Leonard Meyer and his wife, Annabel of Iowa Falls; a brother-in-law, Jim Winter (Margaret) of Johnston; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edgar; two brothers, Henry Meyer and Lewis in infancy; and three sisters, Dorothy Bach, Maxine Barton and Irene Meyer.

Dorothy D. Trampel, age 87, of Rolfe, Iowa and formerly of Williams died on Sunday, March 2, 2008 at the Rolfe Care Center. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at the Williams United Methodist Church. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 4-8 P.M. at the Surls Funeral Chapel in Williams.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Karen (Fred) Lee of Otho, Larry Trampel of Okalahoma City, OK, Pamela (Robert) Allen of Gilmore City, and Allen (Sue) Trampel of Cedar Rapids; 5 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 2 step-great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, Vernon (Arlene) Kinsinger of Grundy Center, and George (Mary) Kinsinger of Camdenton, MO.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, J. Andrew Trampel in March 1990; and 2 brothers, Wayne Kinsinger of Grundy Center and Marlyn Kinsinger of Ames.
Dorothy Kinsinger, the daughter of William A. and Mary Ann (Sherbon) Kinsinger was born February 7, 1921 at Grundy Center, Iowa. As a teenager, she moved with family to Williams. On October 11, 1941, she was united in marriage to J. Andrew Trampel at Kamrar, Iowa. They made their home on a farm near Williams. They moved into town in 1975. Andy passed away March 7, 1990. Dorothy continued to live in Williams and worked at the Boondocks at I35 and Hwy 20 for 37 years as a waitress. In 2004 she moved to Arlington Place in Pocahontas, Iowa, then in 2007 she moved to the Rolfe Care Center.

Ellsworth G. Helm, age 91, of Popejoy, died on Thursday, February 28, 2008 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at the United Methodist Church in Popejoy with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-6 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Alden.
Full Military Rites by the Dows American Legion Post #523.

Ellsworth George Helm was born on June 26, 1916 in Plymouth, Iowa, the son of C. Almond and Tilla (Rossum) Helm. He graduated from the Plymouth High School and was in the Air Corps from 1942-45. Ellsworth was united in marriage to Mary Elizabeth Keeney on August 23, 1941 in Plymouth, and later to Eva Bridges on April 13, 1951 in Dows. He was co-owner of Ackerman's Inc. Ellsworth was a member of the Dows American Legion Post #523 and the Popejoy United Methodist Church.
Ellsworth is survived by his two daughters, Carol Vanderloop and her husband, Tom of Alden and Becky Kalous and her husband, Carroll of Alden; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Fonda Hickethier of Alden and son-in-law, Roger Deike of Mason City.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two wives; a son, Marlyn Hickethier; a daughter, Cheryl Deike; an infant child; and infant twin granddaughters.

Avonelle E. Surls, age 82, of Alden, died on Thursday, February 21, 2008 at the Hampton Health Care Center in Hampton. Funeral services are 2 :00 P.M. Monday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 - 4 P.M. Sunday at theSurls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Avonelle E. Surls was born August 1, 1925 at Iowa Falls, Iowa the daughter of August and Sophie Hubrecht Meyer. She received her education in Iowa Falls and graduated from Iowa Falls High School in 1943. She married Wayne Surls February 12, 1946. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls and Royal Neighbors. Avonelle retired from Weaver Construction Company where she had been a book keeper. Survivors include her husband, Wayne of Alden; son, Russell Surls of Iowa City; three grandchildren, Chris Surls of Mount Vernon, Daniel Surls of Des Moines and Rebekah Clark of Iowa City; one great-grandson Joshua Clark of Iowa City and a brother, Marvin Meyer of Iowa Falls. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Donald and Lawrence

Lorrie Ann Knoll age 42 of West Des Moines and formerly of Ackley, died on Monday, February 18th, 2008 at the Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. Memorial services and visitation will be 6-8 PM Thursday at the United Methodist Church in Ackley with inurnment in the Hazel Green Cemetery, Ackley. Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley is in charge of arrangements.

Hyla Ann (Severson) Harms passed away on February 6, 2008 at the age of 98 years and four days. Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday at the United Methodist Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 hours prior to services at the church on Saturday. Surls Funeral Home of Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.

Hyla was born on February 2, 1910 in Radcliffe, Iowa to Nels and Ethel (Mason) Severson. She was one of eight children. Hyla graduated from the Radcliffe High School and taught several years in country schools in Hamilton and Hardin counties. She later worked in Chicago as a governess and at the World's Fair in 1933 she met Rudolph J. Harms of Alden. They were married March 21, 1936 and they farmed near Alden for many years. Hyla was a loving wife and mother and was active in the Alden Methodist Church, The Order of Easter Star, Rainbow Girls, 4-H and many other community activities. She and Rudy retired to a home in Alden and spent many winters in Weslaco, Texas. Hyla later moved to the Scenic Living Communities in Iowa Falls where she had been a resident for 9 years. Hyla is survived by three children; Everett (Ann) Harms of Alden, Dr. Dean (Mary) Harms of Ames and Ann (Dr. Richard) Gamble of Spirit Lake and the Villages, FL; 7 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, in 1986, an infant daughter, and her sisters and brothers.
Memorials may be directed to the Alden Methodist Church.

Betty Lou (Lauterbach) O'Brien, age, 78 of Ackley, died on Tuesday, February 5, 2008 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with a 7 P.M. Vigil Service.

Betty was born in Iowa Falls, Iowa on September 2, 1929 the daughter of Martin and Nell Lauterbach. Betty graduated from Iowa Falls High School and Ellsworth college and later married Phillip J. O'Brien of Geneva, Iowa on April 19, 1952. Betty was employed as a grade school teacher in Geneva, Iowa and Aplington, Iowa. Betty later worked at the Hampton nursing home in Hampton, Iowa. Betty was an active quilter and an excellent seamstress and belonged to a local group. Betty volunteered at the Ackley Public Library and was active in the Childrens reading program. Betty enjoyed playing cards, watching her grandchildren participate in athletics and was an excellent cook. Betty attended St. Mary's church in Ackley and taught religious education in her younger days. Betty enjoyed reading, gardening and was active in the Ackley women's club. Betty is survived by four children Jeanette Cole (Ken) of Pinole California, Scott O'Brien (Marilyn) of Geneva, Iowa; Fr. Steven O'Brien of Indianapolis, Indiana and Stuart Jeffrey O'Brien (Lisa) of Ely, Iowa. She is also survived by a brother Richard Lauterbach of Iowa Falls and sister Ruth Fahden of Tucson, Arizona. Betty treasured her grandchildren Bailey, Hannah and Aislyn Cole of Pinole, CA; Meredith, Darren & Sybil O'Brien of Geneva, Iowa; and Delaney and Devin O'Brien of Ely.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband Phillip, her parents, her brother Lewis Lauterbach and her sister Harriet Hackbarth.

Alta Mae McFarland, age 85, of Blairsburg, died on Friday, January 25, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls.
Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at the Missionary Alliance Church in Blairsburg with burial in the Saratoga Cemetery, rural Webster City. Visitation will be 2-5 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Chapel in Williams.

Alta Mae McFarland was born on February 2, 1922 in Hewitt, Minnesota, the daughter of Bernard and Susan (Hubbard) Irons. She attended country school in Minnesota. On June 26, 1938 Alta was married to Gerald McFarland in Burt, Iowa. She had been a homemaker and was a member of the Missionary Alliance Church in Blairsburg.
Alta is survived by her two sons, James and wife, Andrea of Blairsburg and Robert of Blairsburg, two daughters, Judi and husband, Melvin Katschke of Blairsburg, and Shirley and husband, John Wallace of Webster City, 10 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 19 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Nora Burnett of Swea City; and a brother, Kenneth Irons of Scottsdale, AZ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Larry McFarland; grandson, Mike Katschke; and fourteen siblings.

Gertrude Havens, age 88, of Iowa Falls, died on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Private memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital, 110 Rocksylvania Ave., Iowa Falls, Iowa, 50126.

Gertrude Mae Havens was born on April 7, 1919 in Grundy Center, Iowa, the daughter of Jacob and Bertha (Sealman) Smit. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School.
Gertrude is survived by her son, Dan and his wife, Sara of Pittsburgh, PA; two granddaughters, Christine Dale of Waterloo and Cathy Schafer of Fairfield; 8 great grandchildren; a sister, Elsie Elliott of Iowa Falls; a sister-in-law, Bonnie Smit of Steamboat Rock; and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harlan Smit; brother in law, Wendell Elliott; and ex-husband, Max R. Havens

Gary N. Fuller, age 68, of Iowa Falls, died on Friday, January 18, 2007 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Tuesday at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Berlin Cemetery, Owasa. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Monday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. A memorial fund has been established.

Gary Neil Fuller was born on June 30, 1939 at Owasa, Iowa, the son of Fred and Alta (Holcomb) Fuller. He was in the U.S. Army National Guard for four years. On February 22, 1959, Gary was united in marriage to Judith Ward at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls. Gary had farmed, retiring in 2002. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was on different Church Boards, also the Park Board, Fair Board and on the Ag Board at Ellsworth Community College. He was a Jackson Township Trustee and had been on the Owasa Fire Dept. and was Fire Chief for several years.
Gary is survived by his wife, Judy; three daughters, Terri Peterson and her husband, Jess of Iowa Falls, Beth Miller and her husband, John of Waukee, and Pam Sicard and her husband, Rick of Ackley; a son, John Fuller and his wife, Elaine of LaGrande; nine grandchildren, Jill, Lisa, and Jamie Peterson, Bryce and Grant Miller, Dustin, Jessi, and Bobbi Sicard, and Nickolas Fuller; a sister, Janice Knott and her husband, Don of McCallsburg; three sisters-in-law, Joan Birkemeyer of Minneapolis, MN, Jane Johns and her husband, Dean of Ackley; and Joyce Metzger of Gaffney, SC.; and a special friend, Jan Foster.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Wayne Metzger and Gene Birkemeyer.

Francis Drew, age 85, of Ackley, died on Friday, January 18, 2008 at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames. Services will be 10:30 A.M. Wednesday at the St. John's United Church of Christ in Ackley with inurnment in the Oakwood Cemetery, Ackley. Family will receive friends from 4-7 P.M. Tuesday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

William Francis Drew was born on January 26, 1922 in Mystic, Iowa, the son of Francis and Bess (Entsminger) Drew. He graduated from the Sumner High School in Sumner, Iowa in 1940 and attended A.I.B. in Des Moines. Francis was united in marriage to Margaret Rule on October 9, 1946 at the Ackley Presbyterian Church. He was a member of the St. John's United Church of Christ and served on the church council and was past President. He owned and operated Drew's Shoe Store from 1949-72. From 1972 to retirement he was a salesman and shareowner in Sailer Ford, Inc. He was a 50 yr member and past Master of the Masonic Fountain Lodge and also a member of the Iowa Falls Elks Club B.P.O.E. Lodge #1674. He served as a Boy Scout Leader, member and past President of the Chamber of Commerce in Ackley and served on the Ackley School Board. Francis is survived by his two daughters, Katherine Short and her husband, David of Hubert, NC and Joan Abbas and her husband, David of Iowa Falls; a granddaughter, Margaret Wiesemann and her husband, Chris of Durham, NC; two grandsons, Drew Short and his wife, Kate of Newport, NC and Ross Abbas of Iowa Falls; two great grandchildren, Noble Short and Haylee Abbas; a very special friend, Diana Ruhl of Iowa Falls; a brother, Paul Drew of Murray, KY; three sisters-in-saw, Gladys Drew of Ackley, Helen Drew of San Marcos, TX, and Jo Lamar of Iowa Falls.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and four brothers, Leo, Robert, Delbert, and Lyle Drew.

Della Cady, age 95, of Williams, died on Friday, January 18, 2008 at the Southfield Care Center in Webster City. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Thursday, January 24th at the United Methodist Church in Williams with burial in the Williams Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday. The Surls Funeral Home in Williams is in charge of arrangements.

Della Mae Cady was born on March 3, 1912 in Brachsburg, Nebraska, the daughter of Joe and Sarah (Hupp) Cady. She attended school in Nebraska. Della was a member of the United Methodist Church and the Legion Auxilliary.
Della is survived by her brother, James Cady of Coon Rapids. She was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers, Donald, Boyd, Dale, Joe Jr., George and one lost in infancy; five sisters, Doris, Jeannette, Hattie, Rosanna and Ellen.

Henry Spieker, age 101, of Iowa Falls, died on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday at the Church of the Open Bible in Iowa Falls with burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Ackley. Visitation will be 4-6 P.M. Friday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Henry Spieker was born on June 22, 1906, in rural Grundy County, Iowa, the son of Fred and Martha (Lindaman) Spieker. He attended Grundy County rural schools. He was united in marriage to Clara Richtsmeier on June 28, 1933 in Wall Lake and after her death, he was married to Stella Howes on June 14, 1980 in Iowa Falls. Henry was a farmer until 1948 and then he was a carpenter. He was a member of the Church of the Open Bible and served on the church board for over 30 years.
Henry is survived by a grandson, Jason Herr and his wife, Stacey of Cincinnati, OH; sister, Ethel Mae Mulder and her husband, Richard of Parkersburg; and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Spieker of Ackley.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his two wives, Clara and Stella; two daughters, Joan Spieker and Carol Jean Herr; four brothers, Jerry, Fred, Raymond, and Rudy Spieker; and four sisters, Louise Kriemeyer, Myrtle Walbaum, Ann Stockdale, and Loretta Gieken.

Ronald K. Laing, 66, passed away Sunday, January 13, 2008 at the Mercy Hospice-Johnston after fighting a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, January 16 at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls. Visitation will be held at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls from 5-7 P.M. on Tuesday, January 15. Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls will be assisting the family with service arrangements and cremation care.
Ron was born on August 22, 1941 in Mineola, New York to Margaret (Oerter) and Ronald K. Laing, Sr. After growing up on Long Island, New York and graduating from the Huntington High School, he continued his education at Farmingdale ATI. In March of 1961, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Ron served as a Presidential Honor Guard in Washington D.C. While stationed in Hawaii he met Patricia J. Hosch. They were married at St. Augustines Church in Waikiki, HI on December 28, 1964. Upon military discharge in June of 1965, they moved to Long Island, NY and lived there until 1967. At that time, they moved to upstate New York where Ron worked in sales for Wine Merchants. In 1975 they moved with their three children to Iowa Falls, Iowa where Ron continued his sales career in the animal health field. Ron enjoyed following sports, traveling, good food, great conversation, the ocean and most of all, spending time with his wife, children and eight grandchildren. He will be remembered by his family and friends for his hearty laugh, great sense of humor and unconditional love and pride he had for his family.
He is survived by his wife, Pat, of 43 years; two sons, Mike and wife, Shelana of Beaverdale, IA and Doug and wife, Christi of Blue Springs, MO; one daughter, Renee and her husband, Brad of Overland Park, KS; eight grandchildren, Justin, Matthew, Jakob, Joshua, Madison, Kaitlin, Halle, and Megan; a brother, Richard Laing of Summit, NJ; and a sister, Nancy Reynolds of Long Island, NY.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Ron for the wonderful, compassionate care that he and his family received at Mercy Hospice-Johnston, 5820 Winwood Dr., Johnston, IA, 50131

Willard K. Neuman, age 78, of Iowa Falls, died on Monday, January 7, 2008 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Memorial services will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday at Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Northlawn Memory Gardens. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Friday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Bethany Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Iowa. On line condolences may be sent to www.surls.com

Willard Keith Neuman was born on November 23, 1929 in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Harry and Marie (Mogle) Neuman. He graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1948. Willard was united in marriage to Darlene Dreyer on March 22, 1952 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. He was a former member of Kiwanis Club and Loyal Order of the Moose. He was a Mentor for the Iowa Falls Schools and was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church. Willard did home delivery with Evergreen Dairy, drove a retail truck to stores for A&E Dairy, retired from Berry Plastics in 1992 and from I.F. Community Schools in 2004 where he was a bus driver for many years. Willard is survived by his wife Darlene Neuman of Iowa Falls; a daughter Jacklyn Dee Meyer Tripkosh and her husband Tim of Ely; four grandchildren; one great granddaugher; and two step-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother, Wayne and a son-in-law, Wendell Meyer.

Gary Crosser, Sr., age 68, of Iowa Falls, died on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the First Christian Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 P.M. Friday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Gary LaVerne Crosser, Sr. was born on September 17, 1939 in rural Iowa Falls, Iowa, the son of Kenneth and Mildred (Farrell) Crosser. He attended Sleepy Hollow Country School and graduated from the Owasa High School in 1957. Gary was united in marriage to Karen Ulrich on March 17, 1959 at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden. He had been a welder with Iowa Prestressed Concrete for 33 years. Gary loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, church activities, loved music and loved to sing.
Gary is survived by his wife, Karen; a son, Gary Crosser, Jr. and his wife, Pam of LaPorte City; four daughters, Brenda Hammarmeister and her husband, Steve of Iowa Falls, Scarlette Zompa and her husband, Don of Webster City, Shelly Kreitlow and her husband, Kurt of Ankeny, and Carmen Crosser and her husband, George Radecke of Geneva, IL; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Bonnie Minteer and her husband, Lyle of Union and Geraldine Schulz and her husband, Vic of Nevada; and a sister-in-law, Velma Lois Crosser of Iowa Falls.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Donald.

Dorothy Hale, age 93 of Iowa Falls died Tuesday January 1st, 2008 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Friday at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Friends Cemetery, Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Dorothy I. Hale was born on May 3, 1914 in Fort Dodge, IA, the daughter of Leon and Mae (Ramsden) Osmanson. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School and the Ellsworth Music Conservatory. Dorothy was united in marriage to Roger Hale on September 4, 1938 in Nebraska. She was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church and the Etude Club.
Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Dee Ann Olsen and her husband, Ken of Spickard, MO; three sons, Tom and his wife, Judy of Holiday, FL, Bob and his wife, Lorrie of St. Louis Park, MN, and John and his wife, Lori of Alden; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a brother, Lee Osmanson of Omaha, NE; and a sister-in-law, Betty Osmanson of Omaha, NE.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Roger; a brother, Roger; a sister, Evelyn Rosien; brother-in-law, Richard Rosien; sister-in-law, Donna Osmanson; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Richard and Margo Hale; and a baby brother and baby sister in infancy.

Alfred Brower, age 98 of Hampton, died on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at North Iowa Hospice House in Mason City. Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with burial in the Christian Reformed Cemetery in Ackley. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday at Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Alfred J. Brower was born on August 10, 1909 in Geneva, Iowa, the son of John and Anna (Terfehn) Brower. He was united in marriage to Mae Heronimus on January 15, 1937 in Holland, Iowa. Alfred had farmed all of his life. He was past Elder and Deacon of the Christian Reformed Church in Ackley and a member of the N.F.O.
Alfred is survived by his children, Gary and his wife, Kay of Geneva, Sharon Hartman and her husband, Dale of Eldora, and Jay and his wife, Linda of Hampton; 7 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mae; a brother, Henry Brower; and a sister, Dena Duit.

Alida Grinde, age 77, of Iowa Falls, died on Sunday, December 30, 2007 at the Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames. Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 - 4 p.m. Tuesday at Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Alida M. Grinde was born July 3, 1930 at Austinville, Iowa the daughter of Lyle and Lena Neymeyer Elliott. She received her education in Aplington and graduated from Aplington High School with the class of 1948 and later graduated from Waterloo School Of Beauty Culture in 1950. Alida was united in marriage to John Grinde on November 11, 1951 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Alida loved her family most of all and did anything she could for her children and grandchildren. She worked with her hands making things beautiful. She enjoyed making crafts, crocheting and flower arrangements. She worked as a beautician at Helens Beauty Shop in Alden for many years. Her flower garden was her pride and joy - no weed survived in her garden. Alida also enjoyed having coffee with her friends. She was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church.
Survivors include her mother, Lena Elliott of Aplington; her sons, Grant of Mason City and Clark and his wife Betty of Story City; grandchildren, Emma and John, two sister-in-laws, Grace Elliott and Elsie Kannegieter; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband John, son Lee, father Lyle, and two brothers, Allen and Jim.

Colleen Moore, age 71 of Williams, died on Sunday, December 30, 2007 at her home. Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Friday at United Methodist Church in Alden with burial in Northlawn Cemetery in Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Surls Funeral Home in Williams.

Colleen Catherine (Olson) Moore was born November 5, 1936 at Rowan, Iowa the daughter of Russell and Lenora (Churchill) Olson. Colleen received her education in Rowan and graduated from Rowan High School. She was united in marriage to Herbert Moore December 9, 1956 at Rowan. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Williams. Colleen enjoyed going to Curves, raising her four boys and loving all her grandchildren. She had a love of flowers and gardening.
Survivors include her husband Herbert Moore of Williams; sons, Thomas Moore and wife Becky of Eldora, Leslie Moore and his wife Michelle of Waterloo, Timothy Moore and his wife Jane of Jewell and Matthew Moore and girlfriend Anita of Williams; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; five brothers and one sister, Ronald Olson of Houston, TX., David Olson of St. Louis, MO., Larry Olson of Clarion, Sandra Willas of Michigan, Danny Olson of Florida and Jack Olson of Florida.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Dennis and Richard Olson and a sister Nancy.

Mary L. Sathoff, age 65 of Iowa Falls, died on Friday, December 21, 2007 at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls. Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa falls. Private inurnment will be in the Union Cemetery. There is no visitation.

Mary Lynn Sathoff was born January 22, 1942 at Nevada, Iowa the daughter of Glen and Mildred (Handsacker) Dadisman. She received her early education at country schools in Manly and graduated from Manly High School. Following her graduation she then attended Wartburg College. She was united in marriage to Craig Sathoff May 13, 1960 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Mary was a homemaker and antique dealer. She was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church where she served on the Church Board. She was also a member of American Heart Association and Children International.
Survivors include her children Ed Sathoff and his wife Allison of Mankato, MN., Laura Diemer of Cedar Falls, IA., Art Sathoff and his wife Cindy of Packwood, IA., Robin Sathoff of Daytona Beach, FL. and William Sathoff of St. Petersburg, FL.; eight grandchildren; two sisters, Sally Bale of Grimes, IA. and Glenda Hefty of Renwick, IA.; two brothers, Jerry Dadisman of Manly, IA. and Donald Dadisman of Georgia.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and brother in infancy and her husband, Craig.

Mary Edna Cessford, age 90, of Iowa Falls, died on Saturday, December 15, 2007 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 1:30 P.M. Wednesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery in Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 4-7 P.M. Tuesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.
Mary Edna Cessford was born October 11, 1917 at Ellsworth, Iowa the daughter of Edgar and Bessie Granby Ward. She received her education in the local schools. She married William Cessford November 2, 1939 at Nevada, Iowa. Mary was a homemaker and a waitress, she had worked at A&W, Red Rooster and Ellsworth Community College. Mary was a member of First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls. Survivors include her two daughters Judy Tripp and special friend Richard Gehrke and Cathy Ites and her husband Dean all of Alden; step-son, Earl Cessford and his wife Doris of Reno, NV.; nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and four great great-grandchildren; five sisters, Ruth Rollene of Idaho Falls, ID., Norma Lake of Webster City, IA., Freda Hutzel and husband Dick of LeGrand, IA., Shirley Hansen and husband Ike of Council Bluffs, IA. and Joan Pomeroy of Iowa Falls, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son in infancy, three sisters, two brothers, two grandchildren and one great grandson.

Helen McRoberts, age 99, of Iowa Falls, died on Saturday, December 8, 2007 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Memorial services will be 1:00 P.M. Saturday, December 29th at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls with inurnment in the Union Cemetery, Iowa Falls. There will be no visitation. Memorials may be directed to the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls.
Helen Marian McRoberts was born on July 31, 1908 in Bellevue, NE, the daughter of Samuel Henry and Emma Lillian (Wright) McRoberts. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1926. She worked at Clifton's Supermarket for many years, Pomona College in Claremont, CA and Campbell Supply Co. and edited cookbooks after her retirement from Campbell's. Helen had lived in Bellevue, NE; Dallas, South Dakota; Claremont, California and Iowa Falls, IA. Helen loved to quilt, knit and crochet. She belonged to the First United Methodist Church, Rachel Circle, and the Quilters from the Methodist Church.
Helen is survived by: Niece, Janet Millang and husband, Harlan of Sully, IA; nephew, Don McRoberts and wife LouEtta of Alamagordo, NM; Niece, Chris Rohlk and husband, Dale of Omaha, NE; Niece, Betty Carson, Independence, IA; Niece, Virginia Heth, Cedar Rapids, IA & Nephew, Richard Rainville and wife, Velma of Marion, IA.
She was preceded in death by parents, sister and brother-in-law, Margaret & Virgil Williams; brother and sister-in-law, Nelson & Jessie McRoberts; brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Esther McRoberts; half-sister and husband Phyllis & Carleton Rainville.

Earl Edward Geitz, Sr, age 67 of Williams died Wednesday, November 28th at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Monday at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Belmond Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-5 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Earl was born on May 17, 1940 in Webster City, the son of Walter and Helen (Biermann) Geitz. He graduated from Williams High School and Iowa State University. He served in the Iowa Army National Guard. On April 5, 1964 Earl was united in marriage to Gerri Turner at the First Methodist Church in Eagle Grove. Earl’s first love was being a farmer and also driving a semi-truck later in life. He was a member of the North Iowa Antique Tractor Club; Iowa Draft Pony Assoc.; Pony of America Assoc.; Iowa High School Athletic Assoc.; Iowa Pork Producers; and St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Webster City. The activities Earl enjoyed in his life were driving a Ford Coupe racecar, playing fast pitch softball with the Kamrar Merchant Softball Team and slow pitch softball with the St. Paul's Lutheran Church League Team. Earl was a High School Baseball/Softball Umpire, Superintendent of the Horse Barn at the Hamilton Co. Fair, a 4-H Leader and showed Draft Ponies at the Iowa State Fair. Earl loved watching and attending his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and sporting events.
Earl is survived by his wife, Gerri; two sons, Ed and his wife, Cheri of Iowa Falls and their children, Katie, Rebecca and Alex; and Rick and his wife, Stef of McLean, IL; a daughter, Deann Geistler and her husband, Jim of Norwalk and their children, Michael and Daniel; a sister, Janet (Geitz) Behn and her husband, Bill of Marion and nephew Jason Strohman of Cedar Rapids.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert Geitz.

Steve Hill, age 59, of Geneva, died on Monday, November 26, 2007 at Williamsburg, Iowa. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Friday at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Thursday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Memorials may be directed to his wife, Sandra at 1169 Timber Ave., Geneva, Iowa, 50633.

Steven Arthur Hill was born March 2, 1948 at Dows, Iowa the son of Arthur and Ilene Hill. He received his elementary education in the Dows school and graduated from Iowa Falls High School with the class of 1966. He married Sandra Elkin on June 28, 1970 at Iowa Falls. Steve farmed in the Geneva area and was also the owner and operator of Steve Hill Trucking. Steve was a member of the Methodist Church in Hampton and the Franklin County Cattleman's Association. Steve was a past member of the Hansell Methodist Church and youth group leader, board member and President of the church board. Steve was a past 4-H member and leader, was active in FFA while in high school, coached youth baseball and basketball.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra of Geneva; two sons, Matt Hill and wife Jennifer of Iowa Falls and Brian Hill of Iowa Falls; a daughter, Lisa Flack of Hampton; three sisters, Janice Gregory and her husband Dr. Richard of Vermillion, S.D., Janet Kauffman and husband Larry of Ankeny, Iowa and Judy Duckett and husband Ronald of Randalia, Iowa; one brother Stan Hill of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Mary Jane, Ryan, Ashley, Alexis, Makenzie, Caroline, Mattilyn and Briana; one son-in-law, Brian Flack of Bradford, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Ilene Hill; mother-in-law Caroline Elkin; brother-in-law, Mike Elkin; and sister-in-law, Jane Elkin.

Jean Thines, age 90 of Iowa Falls died Tuesday, November 27th at the Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Friday at the St. Mark's Catholic Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.

Jean Elizabeth Thines was born on July 15, 1917 in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the daughter of Peter and Kathryn (Nolan) Thines. She was baptized at St. Mark's Catholic Church at the age of two days. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1934. She started studying music at the age of seven under the direction of Mrs. Bullock. She was a member of the St. Mark's Catholic Church and later in life she played the organ and piano for the St. Mark's Catholic Church for 12 years. She lived all her life in Iowa Falls with her brother, Andrew. After his death she moved to an apartment in Iowa Falls. After six years in the apartment she moved to Scenic Manor Nursing Home. She enjoyed having the neighbor children come around to talk and be with her. She was an excellent gardener. She never shied away from work. She was still pushing a lawn mower in her late seventies.
Jean is survived by many Thines and Nolan cousins and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Kathryn, father, Peter; step-mother, Margaret; and her brother, Andrew.

Verdelle Ellingson, age 87, of Alden, died on Thursday, November 22, 2007 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at the Immanuel Memorial UCC in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-5 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Alden.

Verdelle Ellingson was born on July 19, 1920 on the family farm at Alden, Iowa, the daughter of Roy and Lila (Ranger) Gilmore. She graduated from the Alden High School. On March 6, 1941 Verdelle was united in marriage to Elmer Ellingson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. She was a member of the Immanuel Memorial UCC in Alden, Women's Fellowship, and various other organizations. She also enjoyed playing cards with her Supper Club.
Verdelle is survived by her three sons, Dean and wife, Josie of Storm Lake, Dallas and special friend, Pam Wilson of Alden, and Scott and wife, Cynthia of Alden; six grandchildren, Derek Ellingson and special friend, Lori Fite, Keri and husband, Jason Schuelke, Sara and husband, Bo Balvanz, Jay Ellingson, Molly Ellingson and fiancé, Shane Strachan, Josh Ellingson and fiancé, Jen Muller; seven great grandchildren; two brothers, Jack and Marie Gilmore of Iowa Falls and Bob and Gerene Gilmore of Webster City; several nieces and nephews and other relatives and many close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Elmer.

A special thank you to Rev. Bob Miller for his support, loving care, and many great stories about Verdelle.

Mattie Green, age 89, of Ackley, died on Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 1:30 P.M. Saturday at the Washington Reformed Church, Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Mattie Green was born on May 5, 1918 in Ackley, Iowa, the daughter of Ebbel W. and Johanna (Ennen) Gerzema. She was confirmed at the St. Peter's Church in Geneva and attended Grant Township School at rural Ackley. Mattie was united in marriage to Sam Green on December 20, 1944 at the Washington Reformed Church in Ackley. She was a member of the Washington Reformed Church and the Ladies Aid.
She is survived by her sister, Lena Gerzema of Ackley; three brothers, Arthur, Harvey, and Ebbel Gerzema all of Ackley; a sister in law, Vera Gerzema of Iowa Falls, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sam; three sisters, Hattie Heins and her husband, Albert, Grace Poley and her husband, Ewald, and Johanna Lemke and her husband, Lavern; and five brothers, Matt, Claus, Fred, John, and George Gerzema.

Doris Jass, age 77, of Alden, died on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-5 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Alden.

Doris was born on January 19, 1930 in Coggan, Iowa, the daughter of John and Etta (Kurth) Saathoff. She graduated from the Bode High School. On November 26, 1950 Doris was united in marriage to William Jass at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden. She was a member of the St. Paul's Lutheran Church and Ladies Aid and had worked as a Home Health Aid. Doris is survived by her daughter, Jane Dunning and her husband, Tom of Alden; three sons, Michael Jass and his wife, LeAnn of Garden Grove, John Jass and his wife, Pam of VanWert, and David Jass and his wife, Darcie of Alden; 16 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and two sisters, Jean Thatcher of Bode and Norma Vestweber of Goldfield.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William; a son, Chris; a granddaughter, Amy; and two brothers, Duane and Jackie

Judith Meier, age 60, of Iowa Falls and formerly of Emmetsburg, died on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Services will be 2:00 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. Visitation will be one hour before services.

Judith Eileen Meier was born on November 1, 1947 in Hampton, Iowa, the daughter of Wayne and Roberta (Elder) Meier. She graduated from the Hubbard High School and received her BS degree from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon. She worked as a social worker before becoming disabled.
Judith is survived by her mother, Roberta Meier of Iowa Falls; a brother, Dr. Les Meier and his wife, Diane of Iowa Falls; three nephews, Nathan Meier and his wife, Meghan of Bettendorf, Matthew Meier and his wife, Laura of Urbandale, and Jordan Meier of San Diego, CA; uncle and aunt, Robert Elder and his wife, Martha of West Des Moines; an aunt and uncle, Mr and Mrs. Lowell Kulow of Hubbard; and an aunt, GladyWinters of Iowa Falls; and a special friend, Mary Judge of Ames.
She was preceded in death by her father, Wayne and her grandparents.

Jean Walterman Bringer, age 75 of Chicago and formerly of Williams died Tuesday, November 13th at the Swedish Covenant Hospital in Chicago. . Funeral services will be 1:30 P.M. Saturday at the Surls Funeral Chapel in Williams with burial in the Williams Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour before services.

Jean Walterman-Bringer was born on February 2, 1932 in Kamrar, Iowa, the daughter of Jerry and Berhardine Walterman. She was educated in the elementary country schools in Iowa, and graduated High School in Williams in 1949. She entered Broadlawn's Hospital School of Nursing in Des Moines, graduating in 1952 and began her nursing career in Webster City and later in Hollister, CA, Univ Hospital and Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, Michael Reese Medical Center in Chicago, IL and Mercy Medical Center also in Chicago, IL, where she retired in 1997. She was united in marriage to Gordon Bringer on March 6, 2004. She is survived by her husband, Gordon; two step-children, Jack Bringer and Sandra Bringer; grandchildren, Natasha, Sarah, Amir, Layla; two great grandchildren, Emily and Christopher; nieces, Donnette Pierce and Peggy Koontz; and nephews, Jerry Olson, James Olson, Mike Walterman, John Walterman, Chris Walterman, and Jeff Walterman; a cousin, Hio Simpson. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Jeanette Olson and her twin, Joan Walterman; a brother, Johann Joe Walterman, twin brothers, and two sisters in infancy; a nephew, Edward Olson; a step daughter, Linda Bringer; a niece, Chic Lande; and a great nephew, Dillon Walterman.

Florence Klein, age 89 of Iowa Falls died Friday, November 9th at Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral Services will be 10:30 Wednesday at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden with burial to follow in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7pm Tuesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Alden.
Florence G. Klein was born March 15, 1918 at Dows, Iowa the daughter of Lars and Anna Douvre Schager. She received her early education in Dows and graduated from the Dows High School with the Class of 1937. She married Herman Klein October 12, 1941 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden, Iowa. Florence was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Ladies Aid and Fellowship Club. In addition to being a homemaker Florence was an extraordinary woman who loved her family very much. She had many friends and would do anything for anyone. She was a great cook and the children and grandchildren always knew they could expect a great meal while at mom's and grandma's.
Survivors include her children Corwyn Klein and Carol of Iowa Falls, Steve Klein and wife Lori of Alden, IA., Colleen Good and husband Thomas of Pilot Mound, IA.; sister Helma Hofsommer of Spencer; grandchildren, Joy Culberson (Brian) Cedar Falls, Allison Fisher (Jordan) of Boone, Janelle DeMeulenaere (Jared) of Cedar Rapids, Brent Tjarks of Washington D.C., Sena Ornelas of Independence, MO., Paula Tripp (Jeff) of Alden, Samantha Hansen (Brian) Alden, Patty Tapscott (Zach)of Peru, IL. Matt Klein of Iowa Falls and Jerry Hartema (Kelly)of Alden; step-grandchildren, Danny, Scott and Whitney Jass of Alden, Wade Good (Robin) of Boone, Matthew Good (Jessi) of Rochester, MN. and Adam and Aaron Good of Boone; 23 great-grandchildren and four step great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mary Schager of Iowa Falls, Edna Sanders of Iowa Falls, Doris Rieks of Iowa Falls, Lillian Locke of Iowa Falls, Esther Pfeffer of Cedar Rapids and Mavis Klein of Iowa Falls. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, grandchildren Mike Klein and Kimberly Hartema, five brothers and a sister.

Marie Ricke, age 102 of Williams, died Saturday, November 10th at Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral Mass will be 11am Tuesday at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Williams with burial in the St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-7pm Monday at the St. Mary's Church with a Scripture service at 7pm. A memorial Fund has been established. Surls Funeral Chapel of Williams in charge of arrangements.
Marie Elizabeth Ricke daughter of Charles L. and Elizabeth Kerber Froehlich was born September 28, 1905 at Bloomington, IL. The family moved to Wesley, IA. in the spring of 1913, where they resided on a farm west of Wesley. After graduation from Wesley High School, Marie attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, IA. She taught rural schools in the Wesley and Doane areas. She married Lawrence J. Ricke on January 2, 1928 in Wesley. They made their home at Williams, IA. on a farm north west of Williams, until 1953 when they moved to Williams. The Rickes had five children Lawrence Jr., who was killed in an automobile accident in 1948, John Ricke who with his family reside on the family farm a Century Farm in 1983. Diane Pinkerton of Hot Springs Village, AR, Ramona Welden of Iowa Falls and Virginia Ricke of Colorado Springs, CO. Marie built a new home in 1978, where she still resided. In 1962 she was Deputy County Auditor of Hamilton County for 10 years retiring in 1972. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Williams, where she sang in the Choir for 47 years, soloing for most funerals and weddings. She was past president of Webster City Business and Professional Women, a member of Crippled Children, KYN Club, ACCW and an active member of Hamilton County Democrat Club. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence in 1956, one son Lawrence Jr., in 1948 and two grandchildren. She is survived by four children, John and Betty Ricke of Williams, IA., Ramona Welden of Iowa Falls, Diane Fugate Pinkerton of Hot Springs Village, AR. And Virginia Ricke of Colorado Springs, CO.; 16 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Carl Froehlich of Wesley, IA. and Edward Froehlich of Pensacola, FL. and one sister, Helen Huber of Algona, IA.
The previous obituary was written by Marie in about 1985. Addendum: In 1990 she began to divide her time between Williams and Yuma, AZ. She remained in her home in Williams until 2002 when she moved to Ashbrook Assisted Living in Iowa Falls.Virginia now resides in Ames, IA. Diane Fugate Pinkerton Castor still resides in Hot Springs, AR., John and Betty moved to Lake Cornelia near Clarion, Ramona still resides in Iowa Falls. The only surviving sibling is Helen Huber of Algona, IA. Marie now has 35 great-grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

Lyle R. Drew, age 80 of Ackley, died Monday at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Memorial services are 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. John's UCC in Ackley with burial in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by Elliot-Keninger Post #252 of Ackley. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley. A memorial fund has been established.

Lyle R. Drew was born June 22, 1927 at Brazil, Iowa the son of Francis Sr. and Bessie Entsmeinger Drew. He received his education at Ackley and graduated from Ackley High School. Lyle had served his country in the United States Army. He was united in marriage to Gladys Hofmeister August 22, 1947 at St. Peter's UCC at Geneva, Iowa. Lyle was the owner and operator of Drews DX in Ackley from 1954 until his retirement in 1993. Lyle was a member of St. John's UCC in Ackley, Masonic Lodge and the Ackley Country Club.
Survivors include his wife Gladys of Ackley; daughters Pat Howell and husband Gary and their daughter Ivy Howell of River Forest, IL. And Marcia Schipper and husband Clarence and their sons Rusty Schipper and wife Jessica of Waterloo and Ryley Schipper of Ackley; two brothers, Francis Drew, Jr. of Ackley and Paul Drew of Murray, Kentucky; two sisters-in-law, Helen Drew of San Marcos, TX and Jo Lamar of Iowa Falls.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.

Charlie Roelfs, age 66, of Spring Valley, California, formerly of Ackley, died on Friday, November 2, 2007 at California . Memorial services are pending at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Audrey Forr, age 58, of Iowa Falls, died on Monday, October 29, 2007 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with burial in the Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ. Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Wednesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.
It was Audrey's wishes that memorials be directed to Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls.

Audrey J. Forr was born on July 12, 1949 in Dublin, Ireland, the daughter of Michael and Mary (Mooney) Donegan. On January 21, 1968 Audrey was united in marriage to Robert Forr in Harrison, New Jersey. She was a wife, homemaker, and owner of Tops and Bottoms in Iowa Falls.
Audrey is survived by her husband, Robert of Iowa Falls; a daughter, Sherry Lundgren of Colorado Springs, CO; a son, Michael Forr of Eugene, OR; and three grandchildren, Samantha, Bobby, and Mark.
She was preceded in death by her parents.

Cecelia (Ammann) Hansen, age 92, of Iowa Falls, died on Saturday, October 20, 2007 at her home. Memorial Mass Services will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday at the St. Mark's Catholic Church in Iowa Falls with inurnment at a later date at St. Mark's Catholic Cemetery.Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Tuesday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls with family receiving friends from 6-8 P.M. A memorial fund has been established.

Cecelia was born on June 6, 1915, in Grant Township in Franklin County on the family farm. Her parents were John Ammann and Lula (Hanig) Ammann. She graduated from the Geneva High School in 1934. Cecelia was married to Earl G. Hansen on September 22, 1938 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Hampton.
Survivors include her son, Curtis John Hansen and his wife, Deborah of Baxter. Her grandchildren, Brock Hansen and his wife, Robin of Baxter and Holly (Hansen) Sandhoff and her husband, Jeff of Schaller; great-grandchildren, Veronica Condon and Morgan Hansen; brother in law, Bernard Pfeifer of Iowa Falls; and a sister in law, Coletta Ammann of Iowa Falls. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl on July 29, 1989; two brothers, Edward and Peter Ammann and her sister, Clara (Ammann) Pfeifer.

Mary Montandon, age 85, of Alden, died on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls.
Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at the United Methodist Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-6 P.M. Sunday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.
Mary Jeanette Schneider was born July 11, 1922, to Alexander and Helga (Karlsen) Schneider, Henry Township. She attended Cleghorn elementary and high schools, and took courses at Ellsworth College. On Jan. 20, 1940, she was united in marriage to Earl Leon Montandon in Webster City. Mary was a homemaker and active in two neighborhood clubs for many years, the Hardin County 4-H Committee Woman, and represented the Methodist Church in Ames as a delegate and spokeswoman. She was an active member of the Alden United Methodist Church all her life; she organized vacation Bible school and taught Sunday school for many years. Mary was active in Ruth Circle for Methodist Women, she wrote a column for the local newspaper, and she participated in all the activities of her six children. She was the primary caregiver for her husband the last 10 years of his life. Mary was known for sharing her culinary skills and Swedish tea rings with all she loved. She was loved and revered by all who knew her. Her son-in-law said, "Few people have been as privileged as her children, to have had a mother like her." She will be truly missed.
Survivors include daughters, Pamela (Roger) Summers of Costa Mesa, Calif., Cynthia (Bob) Wakefield of Orem, Utah, and Lisa (Ruven) Jimenez of Iowa Falls; sons, Doug (Janet) Montandon of San Clemente, Calif., Randy (Paulette) Montandon of Costa Mesa, and Philip Montandon of Alden; 17 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren (with one due in May); and a brother, Otto (Marian) Schneider of Dakota Dunes, S.D.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Leon Montandon; her parents, Helga and Alex Schneider; a brother, Albee Schneider; and a great-granddaughter, Mary Virginia Terry, named after "Mama Mary."

Lucile Homan, age 87, of Ackley, died on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the St. John's United Church of Christ in Ackley with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery, Ackley. Visitation will be 2-7 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Born on February 18, 1920 in Ackley, Lucile Wilhemina was the only child of John and Lena Richtsmeier Sessler. Her family on her mother's side was German, and she recalled that her grandmother never learned to speak English. Lucile's early years were spent on the family's farm, but when her father died when Lucile was still very young, she and her mother relocated to a house in Ackley. She was baptized and grew up in the church family at St. John's UCC and attended local schools, graduating from the Ackley High School in 1939. A pleasant and sociable person who took pride in her appearance, Lucile enjoyed school and her classmates and participated in some of the available extracurricular activities, including Glee Club and Girl Reserves. Following graduation in 1939, Lucile spent the next few years earning money by cleaning houses. She came to know Ray Homan and after he returned safely from service in the Philippines during WWII, Ray and Lucile began a long and successful marriage on August 6, 1946. They lived nearly all their married lives and raised their only child, John, in the same house, which was conveniently located to downtown, schools, their church, post office, the library and the doctor's office. A stay at home mom, Lucile kept busy with homemaking and gardening. She belonged to the Willing Workers group at her church, quilted at church, and taught Sunday school. For a time, she and Ray kept some chickens in a neighboring empty lot for eggs and the birds came close to being pets to Lucile. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and doing fancywork. After Ray retired, they both enjoyed fishing, antiquing, and going for rides, especially an occasional car trip to visit their son and daughter in law in Nashville, TN. When increasing debility made it necessary for Lucile to move to the Presbyterian Village in 2003, Ray faithfully walked over daily to spend time with Lucile and bring her whatever she needed. They remained devoted to each other and made their home together in a shared room at the Presbyterian Village. Lucile is survived by her husband, Ray of Ackley; a son, John and his wife, Cindy of Nashville, TN and a sister-in-law, Helen Bergman of Ackley. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Elsie Nehring, age 83, of Iowa Falls, died on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at Ellsworth Municipal in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 1:30 P.M. Monday at the United Methodist Church in Owasa with burial in the Berlin Jackson Township Cemetery. Visitation will be 1-3 P.M. on Sunday at the church. The Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.
Elsie was born on December 26th, 1923 to O.C. and Ella (Rierson) Reed at their farm home 2 1/2 miles North of Radcliffe, Iowa. She attended country school near her home and later Radcliffe High School where she played basketball and sang in the choir. She was united in marriage on December 4th, 1939 to Donald E. Nehring at Liberty Missouri. They made their home in Owasa and raised seven children. She was a devoted wife and mother and held jobs seasonally with the Turkey Plant in Ellsworth, and sorted corn in Eldora. After Donald passed away in 1985 she worked for the Nutrition Site in Iowa Falls at the Catholic Church as a cook's assistant. She was proud to attain her GED at age 65 in 1989 and then began working at the DHS office in Eldora, a job she enjoyed very much. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Owasa where she was active in United Methodist Women. In 2003 ill health placed her in the Eldora Nursing & Rehab Center in Eldora where she was a resident until her death.
Surviving her are her children Dick (Mary) Nehring, Alden; Charlene (Sam) Martin, Sun City, AZ; Harold Nehring, Big Spring, TX; Angela (Jim) Pippin, Spanaway, WA; Debra (Adam) Terry, Owasa; Ella (Greg) Wilson, Gillette, WY; Betty Jo (Rick) Reynolds, Casper, WY; 23 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild, sisters Ruby Abramson, Prairie Farm, WI and Laureen Spitler, Webster City; a brother-in-law, Dale (Erlene) Nehring, Oakhurst, CA; Sister-in-law, Bessie Nehring, Owasa and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, her parents, a grandson Donald Lee Nehring, brother Russell Reed, sisters Marjorie Weiss and Hazel Gelhaus.

Dorothy Mary Van Loh, age 78, of Ackley, died on Friday, October 5, 2007 at her home. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Faith Presbyterian Church rural Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Monday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Dorothy Mary Van Loh was born November 10, 1928 at Eldora, Iowa the daughter of Walter and Annie Fischer Evans. She received her education in local schools. Dorothy was united in marriage to John Van Loh February 21, 1950 at Steamboat Rock, Iowa. The couple made their home in the Ackley area where they were engaged in farming. Dorothy was a member of Faith Presbyterian Church, WIC, and Sewing Circle. She enjoyed cooking and canning but, most of all loved caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Marvin Van Loh and his wife Ann of Gilbert, IA. , Mary Jane Van Loh, Rosemary Van Loh, Dennis Van Loh and his wife Kathy all of Ackley and Judy Van Loh of Iowa Falls; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; one brother, Pete Evans of Union, IA.; a sister Cornetta Young and her husband Marvin of Florida; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, John Van Loh; two brothers and one sister.

Edith Eleanor Powers Lohman, age 87 of Iowa Falls, Iowa died Monday, October 1, 2007 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Memorial services will be 1:00 P.M. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. There will be no visitation.
Edith Eleanor Powers Lohman was born July 9, 1920 at Lamar, CO. the daughter of Edgar and Eva (Neil) Moore. The family moved to Indianola where Edith received her education graduating from Indianola High School in 1936 and Simpson College in 1940. She was united in marriage to Don Powers August 24, 1941 at Indianola. Following his death in 1982 she was united in marriage to Francis Lohman June 14, 1989 at Jackson County, MO. Edith was a member of Highland Golf Club and enjoyed spending time on the course when her health permitted. Survivors include her two sons, Richard M. Powers and his wife Betty L. Jensen of San Carlos, CA. and Gary R. Powers of Iowa Falls; grandchildren, Robert D. Powers of Vancouver, BC, Jason M. Powers and his wife Jamie of Iowa City, Jessica Powers of Iowa Falls and Marianna Powers of Lefkada, Greece; great-grandchildren, Evelyn H. Powers and Martin J. Powers both of Iowa City. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Donald R. Powers and Francis H. Lohman, Sr.; four sisters and two brothers.

LeRoy D. Huesman, age 68, of Parker, CO., and formerly of Des Moines and Ackley died on Saturday, September 29, 2007 at the Littleton Adventist Hospital in Littleton, Co. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at West Friesland Presbyterian Church rural Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

LeRoy Dale Huesman was born on August 5, 1939 in Ackley, Iowa, the son of Jans and Ella (DeVries) Huesman. He graduated from the Ackley High School and had served in the U.S. Army. LeRoy was united in marriage to Shirley Hook on August 30, 1963 at the Colfax Center Presbyterian Church at rural Holland, IA. He was an Elder of the West Friesland Presbyterian Church, usher and choir member at the Assembly of God, usher at Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch, CO.
LeRoy is survived by his wife, Shirley of Parker, CO; a daughter, Lisa Orth and her husband, Dan of Highlands Ranch, CO; a son, Todd Huesman and his wife, Susan of Sheldon, IA; four grandchildren, Nicholas Hueseman, Alexander Orth, Lucas Orth, and Mikayla Orth; a brother, Meint Huesman and his wife, Dorothy of Titonka, IA; a sister, Fern Meyer and her husband, Alvin of Ackley, IA; and two brothers-in-law, Rueben Schultz of Olathe, KS and Donald Snittjer of Ruthven, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Anna Schultz and Helen Snittjer.

Bonnie B. Jones,age 96, of Iowa Falls, died on Saturday, September 29, 2007 at the Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls. Funeral services are10:30 a.m. Wednesday at First Christian Church in Iowa Falls with burial in the Union Cemetery. Visitation is 5- 7 p.m. Tuesday at Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. A memorial has been established.
Bonnie Belle Jones was born March 8, 1911 at Iowa Falls, Iowa the daughter of Pearl and Bessie (Palmer) Brown. She received her early education in local schools and graduated from Iowa Falls High School with the class of 1932. She married Marion Jones January 19, 1935 at Iowa Falls where the couple made their home 2 miles east on Hwy D 15. Bonnie was a homemaker, a mother, as well as someone who was involved with the operations on the farm. She had also worked at the Junction Cafe for several years. She was a member of First Christian Church in Iowa Falls. Survivors include her sons, Jerry Jones and his wife Linda of Bellevue, NE., Ron Jones and his wife Marianne of Iowa Falls, and Don Jones and his wife Dinah of Iowa Falls; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; a sister Inez Hanson and her husband Elmer of Roswell, GA. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion; three sisters, Beulah Hensing, Cecil Mardick and Nell Bryant; one brother, Kenneth Brown .

Bernard Grimes, age 87, of Alden, died on Monday, September 24, 2007 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Friday at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 P.M. Thursday at the Surls Funeral Home in Alden.
Bernard Carl Grimes was born June 15, 1920 at Fort Dodge, IA the son of Carl and Josephine (Brown) Grimes. He received his education in Fort Dodge graduating from Fort Dodge Senior High School in 1938. Bernard was in the U.S. Army and served his country during WW II in Germany. Bernard married Evelyn Vetter August 11, 1948 at Manson. Following their marriage they resided in Fort Dodge where Bernard worked at Mitchell Lab as a Dental Technician for 40 years. Bernard and Evelyn bought the Alden Motel in 1967 and have lived there ever since. Bernard retired in 1985. He attended St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Alden. Bernard enjoyed spending his free time golfing, fixing things, and spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Evelyn of Alden; son, Gary Grimes, Sr. and his wife Cindy of Fort Dodge; a daughter, Linda Zamora of Alden; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Tammy Miller and her husband Brian and their daughter Katrina of Cedar Falls, Gary Grimes, Jr. of Cedar Falls, Melody Henderson and her husband Matt and their daughter Lauren of Chandler, AZ. Felicia Zamora and her fiancé Chris Van Wyk of Fort Collins, Co. and Joe Zamora and his wife Jessica of Coralville; one sister Dorothy Taylor of Fort Dodge. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Marian Rewerts, age 88 of Iowa Falls and formerly of Steamboat Rock, died on Friday, September 14, 2007 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 3:00 P.M. Monday at the Presbyterian Church in Steamboat Rock with burial in the Steamboat Rock Cemetery. Visitation will be 3-5 P.M. Sunday at the church. The Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley is in charge of arrangements.
A memorial fund has been established.
Marian Agnes Greenfield Rewerts was born on July 15, 1919 in Ackley, Iowa, the daughter of Harm and Grace Johnson Greenfield. She was united in marriage to William John Rewerts on February 14, 1939 at her parents home in Butler County. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church at Steamboat Rock where she was involved in many church activities, Steamboat Rock Iowa River Conservation Club and Library Coffee Club. She enjoyed camping and fishing, wintering in Texas, and she entertained with her harmonica and friend Lucille on the piano. Marian is survived by her son, Jerry Lee Rewerts and his wife, Carol of Nevada; five daughters, Marlys Jean Berry of Oelwein, Wilma Kay Rose and husband Dave of Brighton, Susan Ione Jaspers and husband Art of Ackley, Lois Grace Mills and husband Pat of Iowa Falls, and Shirley Ann Heefner and husband Jim of Iowa City; 20 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William; a son, Darwin (Butch) Rewerts; 2 grandsons, Shannon Rose and Jason Rewerts; six sisters, Stena Gerdes, Lily Ackerman, Miranda Maifield, Jeanette Meinders, Grace Hovenga, and Viola Ploeger; and a brother, Herman Greenfield.

Thomas Sherfield, age 88, of Ackley, died on Friday, September 14, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Monday at the Faith Presbyterian Church in Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 3-5 P.M. Sunday at the Faith Presbyterian Church. Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley is in charge of arrangements.
Full military rites provided by the Elliott-Keninger American Legion Post #252 of Ackley.
Thomas Clarence Sherfield was born on December 15, 1918 in rural Ackley, Iowa, the son of Onkie and Tena (Jutting) Sherfield. He served in the US Army from 1942-46. Thomas was united in marriage to Jennie Freese on December 3, 1941 at the Methodist Church in Geneva. He was a farmer and had been a member of the Faith Presbyterian Church where he served on various church boards.
Thomas is survived by his one son, Clarence Sherfield and his wife JoAnne of Ackley; a daughter, Marlene Sprain and her husband Bruce of Glenwood, IA.; two granddaughters, Andrea McLean of St. Paul, MN. and Rebecca Johnson and her husband Eric of Aplington, IA. and their two children, Hannah and Alan Johnson both of Aplington; a sister-in-law, Ramona Sherfield of Eldora; and a brother-in-law, Frederick Freese of Ackley.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jennie; a sister, Ruth; and a brother, Raymond.

Merlin John Lupkes, age 74 of Ackley, died on Thursday, September 13, 2007 at his home. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Monday at the Washington Reformed Church at rural Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 2-5 P.M. Sunday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley. There will be no viewing at the church. A memorial fund has been established.

Merlin John Lupkes was born on May 1, 1933 in rural Kesley, Iowa, the son of John and Grace Ibeling Lupkes. He graduated from the Aplington High School in 1952. Merlin was united in marriage to Josephine Abbas on December 7, 1954, Mary Ann McWilliams on August 18, 1972, and to Florance Aldinger on December 7, 2002. He had been a farmer and was a member of the Washington Reformed Church and the American Cream Draft Horse Assoc.
Merlin is survived by his wife, Florance; three sons, Myron Lupkes and his wife, Jayne of Joice, Wendell Lupkes and his wife, Renee of Waterloo, and Justin Lupkes and his wife, Lora of Ackley; five step-daughters, Diane Miller and her husband, Wendale of Dumont, Bev Warns and her husband, Jim of Keller, TX, Pat Warmbier and her husband, Dave of Woodbine, Pam Hill and her husband, Mike of Ironton, MN, and Jennifer Nolting and her husband, Kent of Kansas City, KS; three step-sons, Don McWilliams and his wife, Anne of Dumont, Rick Aldinger of Big Sur, CA, and Doug Aldinger and his wife, Joanne of Iowa Falls; 31 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; four brothers, Arthur Lupkes and his wife, Juliet of Ackley, Paul Lupkes and his wife, Gladys of Rapid City, SD, Walter Lupkes and his wife, Beverly of Ackley, and Leroy Lupkes (Doc) and his wife, Shirley of Parkersburg; a sister, Carol Schiltz and her husband, Al of Coralville.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Josephine, second wife, Mary Ann; a daughter, Marilyn Jansma; a brother, George Lupkes; and a sister, Lois Meyer.

Jessie Schweertman Locascio, age 93 of Aplington and formerly of Cedar Falls died on Wednesday, September 12, 2007 Maple Manor in Aplington. Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Saturday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with burial in the Union Cemetery, Iowa Falls. Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Jessie Schweertman Locascio was born on December 26, 1913 in Wellsburg, Iowa, the daughter of Louie and Anna (Engelkins) Schweertman. She was united in marriage to Michael Locascio on May 13, 1958 in Mesa, Arizona and had been a homemaker.
Jessie is survived by her two step-daughters, Christine Levitan in Lauderdale Lakes, FL and Rosie Exter of Jacksonville, FL; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 7 brothers, Bouko, George, Louie, John, Henry, Trienes, and Elzo Schweetrman; and 4 sisters, Gertrude Bulten, Jennie Molendorp, Anna TerHark, and Grace Schweertman; one step-daughter; and 3 step-sons.

Mabel Meyer, age 87, of Eldora, died on Tuesday, September 4, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley.
Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at the St. John's United Church of Christ in Ackley with burial in the East Lawn Memory Garden in Eldora. Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Friday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.

Mabel Elizabeth Meyer was born to William & Ella Roegner Knipfel on January 5, 1920. She was born and raised on a farm north of Ackley. She was the second of eight children. She went to country school through 8th grade and later earned her GED diploma. She worked out as a hired hand for several years. She also spent three and one half years in Washington, D.C. working at a restaurant. She married Raymond LeRoy Meyer November 30, 1946 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They lived in Geneva for thirteen years and then moved to Eldora in 1959. She worked at the Iowa State Training School for Boys for 25 years and retired in 1985. She was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ and she enjoyed gardening, flowers (she had hundreds of African Violets), quilting, dancing and visiting with family and friends. She took care of several older neighbors and friends over the years in Eldora.
She is survived by her children: Dale (Kim) Meyer of State Center, IA; Duane (Linda) Meyer of Springfield, IL; Dallas Meyer of Grand Junction, CO; Donna (Richard) Blanchard of Ackley, IA; a special friend, William Oelmann of Ackley; 8 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; 5 step-great grandchildren; 8 step-great great grandchildren; brothers Raymond (Dorothy) Knipfel of Hampton, Arnold Knipfel of Ackley and sister Dorothy Meyer of Ackley.
She was preceeded in death by her parents, her husband, brothers Earl, Harley, Merle Knipfel and sister, Florence Harms.

Jennie Sherfield age 90, of Ackley, died on Sunday, September 2, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services are 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, at Faith Presbyterian Church rural Ackley with burial in the church cemetery. Visitaton will be from 5-7 p.m., Monday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Jennie Sherfield was born May 2, 1917 at rural Geneva, Iowa the daughter of Onno and Sarah (Wilken) Freese. She received her education in the local country school. She was united in marriage to Thomas Sherfield on December 3, 1941 at the Geneva Methodist Church. Jennie was a member of Faith Presbyterian Church where she was active in W.I.C., Sewing Group, and Bible Studies. She is survived by her husband of more than 65 years, Thomas, of Ackley; one son Clarence Sherfield and his wife Joanne of Ackley; a daughter, Marlene Sprain and her husband Bruce of Glenwood, IA.; two granddaughters, Andrea McLean of St. Paul, MN. and Rebecca Johnson and her husband Eric of Aplington, IA.; two great grandchildren, Hannah and Alan Johnson both of Aplington; one brother, Fredrick J. Freese of Ackley; a sister-in-law Ramona Sherfield of Eldora, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, two sisters, a brother-in-law and three sisters-in-law.

Rosie Sielaff, age 94, of Buckeye, died on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Buckeye with burial in Sherman Township Cemetery rural Buckeye. Visitation will be from 5 -7 p.m. Friday at Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. Memorials have been established to L.W.M.L. and The Lutheran Hour.
Rosina Sielaff was born June 22, 1913 at rural Buckeye, IA. the daughter of Fred and Minnie Fuhrman Sielaff. She received her education in Buckeye graduating from Buckeye High School in 1932. Rosie continued her education graduating from Beauty School in Waterloo. Following her graduation she worked in Decorah before moving to Iowa Falls to open the S & L Beauty Shop with Vi Weatherman. She later worked the Hair Care Center with Judy Clock from where she retired after 60 years of work. Rosie was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Buckeye where she had played the organ and taught Sunday School, and also was a member of Ladies Aid where she had held different offices. Survivors include one sister, Freida Oakland of Eldora, IA.; one brother, Erwin Sielaff of Houston, TX.; six nephews and eight nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, five sisters, Esther Schwartz, Leona Cozart, Marie Berkebile, Dorothea Wiesner and Laura Smith; three brothers, Al, Wilfred, and Arnold.

John Van Lenning age 87, of Ackley, died on Friday, August 17, 2007 at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley. Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Tuesday at the United Methodist Church in Geneva with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery, Ackley. Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Monday at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
John Van Lenning, the son of George and Anna Van Lenning, was born February 28, 1920, in the Netherlands. He immigrated to the United States with his parents at the age of three. He went to school in a one-room schoolhouse in the rural Ackley area and lived around Geneva and Ackley his entire life. John was united in marriage to Wanda Lamb in Iowa Falls, IA. on March 23, 1947. John's life was centered around his family and his love for farming. At an early age, he was helping neighbors with farm work. He and Wanda farmed west of Geneva for many years. John took great pride in being one of the first farmers to have crops planted in the spring and an early harvest in the fall. John also drove a milk truck for a number of years. He moved to Ackley after Wanda's death.
Left to cherish John's memory are his three children, John Kent Van Lenning (Pat) of Belmond; Sandra Heiden of Alden; Christal Munyon (Howard) of Ankeny; four grandchildren; Ryan Van Lenning, Berkeley, CA; Cory Van Lenning, Bellevue, NE; Bret Heiden, (Tricia) Iowa Falls and Jason Heiden of Alden. Step-grandchildren, Tammy Freerks (Bill) of Belmond; Todd Mennenga (Dawn) and step-great grandchildren Dalton & Danielle of Clear Lake.
Preceding John in death were his wife, Wanda; his parents, George and Anna; two brothers, Pete and Henry; and his son-in-law, Merle Heiden.

Lawrence Eide, age 93, of Iowa Falls, died on Friday, August 10, 2007 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Thursday at the United Methodist Church in Alden with burial in the Alden Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour before services at the church on Thursday. Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls is in charge of arrangements.

Lawrence was born on July 29, 1914 in rural Williams, the son of Joseph and Gentle (Knickerbocker) Eide. He graduated from the Alden High School in 1930 and on March 17, 1938 he was united in marriage to Ione Thompson in Dubuque, Iowa. Lawrence had farmed all of his life, he was on the Board of Directors for the Alden Co-op for 15 years; was on most church boards; and was a member of the PTA of the Alden School system.
Lawrence is survived by his two sons Roger Eide and his wife Lori and Marvin and his wife Ethel all of Iowa Falls; four grandsons, Kevin Eide and his wife Kelly of Colorado Springs, Co., Curtis Eide and his wife Kaaren of Rochester, MN., Gregory Eide and his wife Gina of Dunlap, IL. and Brian Eide of Des Moines, IA.; two great-grandsons, Nathan and Daniel Eide both of Rochester MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and two brothers, Vernon and Garnet Eide.

Alan C. Oelmann, age 54, of Ackley, died on Thursday, August 9, 2007, at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City. Funeral services