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Pauley Jones Funeral Homes "Avoca Chapel"
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LaFay C. Baker - Age 89 LaFay Catherine Baker, the daughter of Arlow and Mary "Katie" Reece Grabill, was born on September 29, 1915 at Harlan, Iowa. She attended school at Guthrie Center and Valley Junction, graduating from Harlan Community High School in 1935. On January 1, 1946, LaFay was united in marriage to Vernon "Benny" Baker at the Methodist Church Parsonage in Omaha, Nebraska. To this union, three daughters were born: Sharon, Ellen and Elizabeth. The family made their home in Harlan, where LaFay worked at Gambles, Moon’s Variety, the Baptist Home, St. Michael’s and Gibsons. Vernon died on September 12, 1998. LaFay was a member of the New Testament Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa and she enjoyed reading and needle work. LaFay died on Thursday, March 17, 2005, at the Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-nine years, five months, eighteen days. In addition to her parents and her husband, Vernon, LaFay was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon and a grandson, Gary Lee Hansen. Survivors include her daughters, Ellen and her husband, Robert Kimball of Kirkman, Iowa; Elizabeth Thomas of Stockton, California; other relatives and many friends. Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 21, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa with Pastor Paul Campbell serving as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Seth Kimball, Robert Kimball, Jon Thomas, Brent Hofferman, Brett Kimball, Larry Hansen and Matthew Keesling. Interment was held in Bowman’s Grove Cemetery in rural Harlan, Iowa.
Leola "Lee"
Fay Baker
- Age 84 Leola Fay Baker “Lee” was born on December 12, 1922, to Lafe and Myrtle (McMurphy) Fairchild on a farm east of Irwin, Iowa. Lee attended country grade school east of Irwin, Iowa, and graduated from Manning High School, Manning, Iowa, with the class of 1941. While in high school she took teacher training classes and taught country school near Irwin. In 1943, she moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where she began her career in the restaurant business. On November 11, 1945, Lee was united in marriage to Harold “Jake” Baker and moved to Harlan, Iowa, where they continued to live and raise their family of five children: Larry, Doug, Susan, Cynthia, and Michelle. Lee was in the restaurant business for twenty some years as either a chef or a manager. In Lee’s later years she was employed at Western Iowa Pork, Concerned, Inc., and Communications Data Services (CDS) until retiring in November of 2000. Lee liked being outdoors and going horse back riding. Every summer she would can tomatoes from the garden she and Jake grew. Lee enjoyed taking family vacations to Lake Okoboji, playing cards with her grandchildren, playing bingo and going to the casinos to play the slots with her daughters Susan and Michelle. She also enjoyed visiting with her brother and sisters. Lee spent time taking care of her husband Jake as his health was failing. As they were preparing to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, Jake died on March 19, 1994. Lee died at the Avoca Nursing Home in Avoca, Iowa, on March 15, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-four years, three months and three days. Lee was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Cynthia, one sister Noreen Pietanze, and her sister-in-law Barb Fairchild. She is survived by two sons: Larry Baker of Nashville, Tennessee, Doug and his wife Mary Baker of Harlan, Iowa, two daughters: Susan and her husband Raymond Arnold of Minden, Iowa, Michelle and her husband Gary Blum of Harlan, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; four sisters: Leona Erb of Harlan, Iowa, Ramona Peterson of Harlan, Iowa, Irma Weber of Audubon, Iowa, and Dixie and her husband Donald Andersen of Irwin, Iowa; one brother, Kelly Fairchild of Harlan, Iowa; and one brother in-law Pete Pietanze of Omaha, Nebraska, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. A funeral service was held on Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 10:00 AM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Rev. Bob Hoefler and Pastor Nancy Ross-Hullinger were the officiating clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Max Baker, Lisa Beckmann, Troy Baker, Kip Arnold, Sarah Whitford, Kelsey Brewer, Kory Arnold, and Jessica Brewer. Interment was at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa. Pauley Jones Funeral Home has put speakers in their garage and called it their Lee Baker Memorial Sound System.
Earl Francis Baldwin, the son of Clarence and Alicia McCabe Baldwin, was born on April 30, 1926, at Mondamin, Iowa. Earl attended Logan schools through the eleventh grade and then entered the United States Navy. He enlisted on May 5, 1944 and served his country during World War II. After receiving his honorable discharge on May 16, 1946, he returned to Southwest Iowa and graduated from Missouri Valley High School with the Class of 1947. He was always interested in cars and car repair, so after finishing school, Earl went to work for the Ford Garage in Council Bluffs, Iowa. On October 22, 1948, Earl was united in marriage to Velma Mae Rasmussen at Logan, Iowa. To this union three children were born, Dennis, Linda and Jeffrey. They made their home in Missouri Valley, Iowa until 1954 when they moved to Harlan, Iowa where Earl was employed as parts manager for the Ford dealership. His loyalty to the Ford trade name existed through several ownership changes and over 34 years. He retired from Orv Rocker Ford in 1988. Earl was elected to the Harlan City Council in October 1969 and served until December 1973. Earl was an avid fisherman and enjoyed going to garage sales. He also held a membership in Shelby County VFW Post No. 941. Velma Baldwin died at her home, March 6, 1979. After her death, Earl continued to make his home in Harlan. On September 25, 1981, Earl was united in marriage to Shirley Beaman at Harlan, Iowa, where they continued to make their home. Earl died at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, NE on Wednesday, May 17, 2006, just 18 days after his 80th birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Velma, a brother Harley Baldwin and a sister Vera Squire. Survivors include his wife Shirley of Harlan, son Dennis (Donna) of Kirkman, IA, daughter Linda (Roger) Jacobsen of Harlan, son Jeffrey (Diana) of Austin, TX; stepson Dan (Penny) Beaman of Atlantic, IA; stepdaughter Sue Radosti of Sioux City, IA and stepson Joe Beaman of Ames, IA; 13 grandchildren, nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends. Funeral services were held on Monday, May 22, 2006, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, at 11:00 A.M. with Sue Radosti officiating. Military Rites were conducted in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, by the American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150 and the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Elvin "Red" Hansen, Dr. Charles Early, Gerald Anderson, and Byron Jensen. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Auen, Harold Blackwell, Fred Olsen, Bob Ahrenholtz, Vince Jauron and Gary Christiansen.
Mabel M. Barnett -
Age 99
Darrell J. Barrett - Age 56 Darrell John Barrett, the son of John and Helen L. Holdsworth Barrett, was born on November 3, 1950 in Manning, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the Tennant Methodist Church. Darrell attended grade school in Tennant and graduated from Shelby High School. Darrell was united in marriage to Becky Nielsen on April 15, 1972 in Shelby. To this union three children were born: Travis, Teresa, and Todd. After their marriage Darrell was engaged in farming and later he became employed at Jacobs Corporation in Harlan, Iowa where he worked in the maintenance department where his function was to keep state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment running properly. Darrell enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Darrell died on November 2, 2007 at the Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa having attained the age of fifty-six years, eleven months and thirty days. He is preceded in death by one brother Richard. Survivors include his wife: Becky Barrett; his children: Travis and his wife Emily Barrett of Harlan, Iowa; Teresa and her husband Chad Hancock of Council Bluffs, Iowa and Todd Barrett of Bouton, Iowa; three grandchildren: Alex and Michael Barrett and Tara Hancock; parents: John and Helen Barrett of Shelby, Iowa; sister: Phyllis and her husband Don Barkhaus of Altoona, Iowa; brother Tim Barrett and his wife Luann of Shelby, Iowa; Mother-in-Law, Pauline Nielsen of Avoca, Iowa; Brother-in-Law Ray Nielsen and his wife Pam of Avoca, Iowa; Sister-in-Law, Roxanne and her husband Wade Nelson of Harlan, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at 10:30 AM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with James Boardman as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Jeff Holste, Dwight Tew, Lanny Petsche, Robert McLaughlin, Dave Robinson and Robert Nihsen. Interment was held at the Shelby Cemetery, Shelby, Iowa.
Eugene L. Barry - Age 83 Eugene L. Barry, son of William H. and Emma (Hoffman) Barry, was born on December 8, 1924, in Woodbine, Iowa. He attended country school near Woodbine and graduated from Woodbine High School with the Class of 1942. After high school, Eugene began working for a seed company in Woodbine until his entrance into the United States Navy where he served during World War II. On December 16, 1945, Eugene was united in marriage to Donna Waite at the Christian Church in Woodbine, Iowa. One daughter, Judy, was born to this union. After his honorable discharge from the military service, he returned to work at the seed company in Woodbine. After working at the seed company for two years, he began to farm with his father-in-law. In 1950, Eugene, Donna, and Judy moved to a farm near Harlan. In 1970, they bought their own farm southeast of Harlan. In 1985, they moved to Harlan. Eugene retired from farming in 1988. Eugene enjoyed attending dances with his wife and rarely missed a dance in Minden. He loved to visit with people and never knew a stranger. But most of all, Eugene was a family man, spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was admitted to Creighton University Medical Center where he died on March 29, 2008, having attained the age of eighty-three years, three months, and twenty-one days. He was preceded in death by his parents. Eugene is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Donna Barry of Harlan, Iowa; his daughter Judy and her husband Gale Baughman of Omaha, Nebraska; his grandchildren: Douglas Baughman and his wife Tammie of Kirkman, Iowa and Melinda and her husband Eric Gebauer of Rib Lake, Wisconsin; great-grandchildren: Katie Baughman of Kirkman, Cole Gebauer and Wyatt Gebauer, both of Rib Lake, Wisconsin, other family members and friends. A funeral service was held on Tuesday, April 1, 2008, with Pastor Jim Cunningham leading the 2:00 PM service at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Casket bearers were Dalton Jensen, George Sonderman, Delbert Bruck, Ernie Schack, Sylvan Klein, and Kenny Kuster. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.
Owen Ransome
Barry - Age 88
Adam
Barta - Age
21 Adam John Barta, the son of Robert Lee and Margaret "Peg" Jean (Wendt) Barta, was born on June 29, 1984 at Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. When Adam was in kindergarten, he did not like school very much. He would rather spend time with his dog, Tubby. At an early age, it was discovered that Adam was suffering from a form of cancer. As a little boy, he had to undergo surgery for removal of much of the muscle tissue in his left leg and removal of his left knee cap. Chemo treatment was also a part of his care. This made it impossible for him to enjoy sports, games or even recess. He attended West Ridge Elementary School and the Harlan Community High School in Harlan, Iowa. On November 26, 2004, Adam was united in marriage to Ashley Neese. One son was born to this union: Adam John Barta, Jr. After their marriage, the couple resided in Walnut, Iowa. Adam was employed with Farmland Foods, Inc. in Denison, Iowa. Adam enjoyed fishing, going paint balling, bowling, and most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his son. He was an avid Chiefs fan and stood by them win or lose. He also liked the Cubs, WWE Wrestling, and NASCAR, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (No. 8) being his favorite. He wrote poetry and music and also played the guitar. Adam died on Wednesday, March 29, 2006, at Kirkman, Iowa, having attained the age of twenty-one years and nine months. He is survived by his wife, Ashley of Walnut, Iowa; his son, Adam J. Barta, Jr., of Walnut, Iowa; his parents, Robert and Peg Barta of Portsmouth, Iowa; his sister: Elaine Barta and her fiancé Robert Gatewood of Belton, Texas; grandparents, Bill and LaVonne Barta of Harlan and Jack and Elaine Wendt of Portsmouth; other relatives and a great many friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, April 4, 2006, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa, at 10:00 A.M. with Rev. John Dorton as the celebrant. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa, with Daniel Wendt, Nicholas Wendt, Dennis Wendt, Chris Buck, John Wendt, Cory Buck, Brain Knauss, Beau Fealing, Brent Knauss, Taylor Schunning, and Kelly Greer serving as casket bearers.
Alvin L. Bauer, the son of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Schenck) Bauer, was born on July 23, 1918, at Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. Alvin attended school at Corley Country School. On October 20, 1942, Alvin entered into the United States Army at Camp Dodge, Iowa. He served at the Battle of Normandy, in Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe. He was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with four bronze stars as well as a Good Conduct Ribbon. Alvin was honorably discharged on October 12, 1945 at Clinton, Iowa. After his military service, Alvin worked as a self-employed truck driver, a mechanic for several Harlan businesses, and a school bus driver for the Harlan Community Schools. On October 14, 1943, Alvin was united in marriage to Kathryn "Katie" Stinn at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, Iowa. They were the parents of one daughter, Beverly. After their marriage, the couple made their home in Corley, Iowa. Alvin was employed at the service station in Harlan, Iowa for many years. Alvin and Katie loved to dance. They were members of the Corley Community Club in Corley. Katie died on February 27, 1999. After her death, Alvin remained in Corley until October 2003, when he became a resident of Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa. Alvin was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, Shelby County VFW Post No. 941, and enjoyed playing cards. He played cards so often that the numbers on each card were worn off. Alvin died on Thursday, April 6, 2006, at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eight months, and fourteen days. In addition to his parents, his wife, Katie, Alvin was preceded in death by his brothers, Emery and Rudy. Survivors include his daughter, Beverly and her husband, Howard Harlan, of Adair, Iowa; four grandchildren, "Alvie’s Four Queens:" Melissa McMurphy, Mickie and her husband, Josiah Blank; Mindy and her husband, Stephen Rote; and Megan McMurphy ; four great-grandchildren: Bradley, Shaela, and Kyle Klindt and Andrew Rote; other relatives and a great many friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, April 8, 2006, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Robert Hoefler as the celebrant and Ref. Fred Reischl as the concelebrant. Military Rites were conducted in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, by the American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150 and the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941. Serving as casket bearers were Paul Stinn, Josiah Blank, Brett Hansen, Mike Jensen, Rod McMurphy, and Larry Maness.
Maude M. Bauer - Age 100 Maude Marie Bauer was born on July 30, 1907, to William and Edna (McKeighan) Gardner in Burke, South Dakota. She attended grade school in Naper, Nebraska, and high school in Tennant, Iowa, before graduating from Amity High School in College Springs, Iowa. She attended Wayne State Teachers College in Wayne, Nebraska. After graduation, she became superintendent of a two year high school in Nebraska. She then taught for three years at Exira, Iowa. Maude met Albert Bauer in 1930 while buying a pair of shoes at the store. They were married one year later on July 8, 1931. This union was blessed with one son, Keith in 1937. Maude continued to work as a substitute teacher and as a Sunday School teacher. She started selling shoes and keeping books at Bauer’s Shoe Store in 1931 and continued for over seventy years. She was a member of Zenobia Rebekah Lodge No. 286 of Harlan and the Lebanon Chapter No. 8 Order of Eastern Star of Harlan. She was also active with the Weslyan Service Guild of the Methodist Church and served as Treasurer of the Harlan Chamber of Commerce in the 1970's.
She is survived by her son Keith, nieces and nephews, other family members, and many friends. Funeral Services were held Saturday, March 22, 2008 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home. Pastor Dave Swinton officiated the 11:00 AM service with burial at Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Austin Hess, Margaret Hatcher, Laura Arkfeld-Mohr, Shirley Tschirren, Carol Emlen, and Patricia Jorgenson. Active casket bearers were Roger Rust, Shawn McLaughling, Russ Becker, Bernard Cox, Sharon Mathiasen, and Jeremy Hess.
Wanda J. Baughman - Age 80 Wanda Jean Baughman, the fourth child of five children born to Lester Jackson and Flora May (Bosworth) Hash on September 17, 1925, on a farm in Corwith, Iowa. She lived on the farm with her family until she was seven years old and then they moved to Missouri where she lived until she was eleven when her family returned to Corwith, Iowa. Wanda attended Corwith School and was in the top ten of her class, graduating in 1943. She played on the Girl’s Basketball team and enjoyed History and English. Wanda was married at the age of nineteen and four children were born to that union: Michael, Sherry, Lynnette, Leland. She stayed at home and raised her four children, later began working to support her family and sometimes had to work up to three jobs to provide for her and her children. On June 29, 1968, Wanda was united in marriage to Donald "Gene" Baughman, who was a wonderful man and helped her raise her four children. After their marriage, Gene and Wanda farmed near Kirkman, Iowa. Wanda was a United Methodist Women Charter Member, and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa, where she sang in the choir. She also served as Treasurer and President of Farm Bureau and was a WRS member. Wanda enjoyed reading and loved flowers, especially the roses which were displayed in front of her house. She also liked to watch NASCAR racing, Dale Earnhardt being her favorite. Wanda liked to play games with her family, such as Trivial Pursuit, Sequence, Dominos and Cards. Wanda died on Sunday, January 1, 2006, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty years, three months and fourteen days. In addition to her parents, Wanda was preceded in death by her daughter, Sherry Dickmeyer. Survivors include her husband, Gene Baughman of Kirkman, Iowa; her children: Michael Dickmeyer and his wife, Judi of Omaha, Nebraska; Lynnette and her husband, Jim Hyndman of Grimes, Iowa; Leland Dickmeyer of Kirkman, Iowa; four grandchildren: Michael Anderson, Meridith Efken, Timothy Dickmeyer, and Beth Dickmeyer; two step-grandchildren: Adam and Aaron Hyndman; six great-grandchildren; her brothers and sisters: Ralph Hash and his wife, Adeline of Reno, Nevada; Thelma Forbes of LeGrand, Iowa; Florence Eden of Titonka, Iowa; Les Hash and his wife, Cindy of San Antonio, Texas; other relatives and many friends. Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 7, 2006, at the First Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa, at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Gundar Lamberts officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery in Kirkman, Iowa, with Timothy Dickmeyer serving as a honorary casket bearer. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Baughman, Jon Rasmussen, Gale Baughman, Chuck Baughman, Norris Olson and Willie Baughman.
Arrangements and Services For Caleb P. Beckman - Age 5 Who died on Thursday July 3, 2008 Family Greeting Friends Thursday, July 10, 2008 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM Pauley Jones Funeral Home Avoca, Iowa Graveside Service Thursday, July 10, 2008 - 3:30 PM Graceland Cemetery - Avoca, Iowa
Caleb is survived by his parents Steve and Paula Beckman of Boone, Iowa, his brother Joshua Beckman of Boone, his paternal grandparents Doug and Jeanette Beckman of Glenwood, Iowa; and his maternal grandparents Don and Ginny Nickles of Council Bluffs, Iowa. For more information, please call the Avoca Chapel at (800) 447-2588
Florence
Behrens - Age 85 Florence Behrens was born on December 19, 1921 to Henry and Marie (Christensen) Larsen on the family farm in Jackson Township, Shelby County, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville, Iowa. She attended school in Jackson Township #4. On January 11, 1939, she was united in marriage to Orvis Behrens. Six children were born to this union: Richard, Keith, Betty, Lyle, David, and Peggy. In March of 1940, they moved their family to a farm in Jackson Township and farmed there until 1976. At that time, the family moved to their son Lyle’s acreage in Center Township. Florence loved to bake and cook for her family and always made her children’s favorite meals and desserts from recipes she had in memory using a pinch of this and a dash of that. One of her hobbies was quilting and she loved to play cards, especially Rummy, Pitch, and Pinochle. Florence and Orvis also enjoyed square dancing and polkas but their pride and joy was their house on the lake in Okoboji where they moved in April of 1993 after Florence retired from her job of twenty-two years at Variety Distribution in Harlan. This was their home until 2003, when they decided to move back to Harlan. She remained a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville. Florence died on Monday, September 24, 2007, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-five years, nine months, and five days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Keith Behrens, her brothers Leonard and Ivan Larsen, and her sister Leona Jensen of Alexandria, Minnesota. She is survived by her husband Orvis Behrens of Elk Horn, Iowa, her sons: Richard Behrens and his wife Maudie of Kingman, Arizona, Lyle Behrens and his wife Connie of Jacksonville, Iowa, and David Behrens and his wife Hattie of Harlan, Iowa; her daughters: Betty Jacob of Bellevue, Nebraska, and Peggy and her husband William Fewell of Lake View, Iowa; twelve grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends. A funeral service was held on Friday, September 28, 2007, at the Elk Horn Lutheran Church in Elk Horn, Iowa. Pastor Ron Rasmussen officiated the 11:00 AM service. Casket bearers were Stanley Behrens, Dave Meinershagen, Donald Behrens, Anthony Behrens, Rod Owens, and James Behrens. Interment was held at the Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa.
Orvis Behrens - Age 91 Orvis K. Behrens, son of John C. and Alma C. Behrens, born on a farm in Lincoln Township in East Pottawattamie County near Walnut, Iowa, October 10, 1916. He was baptized at First Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa and attended country school in East Pottawattamie County. When he reached adulthood, he continued to work in the area until 1936 at which time he was employed in Monroe Township in Shelby County. He was employed there until 1938 at which time he was employed in Jackson Township also in Shelby County, Iowa. On January 11, 1939, Orvis was united in marriage to Florence I. Larsen. Six children were born to this union. On March 1, 1940, Orvis and Florence moved to a farm in Jackson Township. They lived and farmed there until December 1976 at which time they moved to their son, Lyle’s, acreage in Center Township. Orvis retired from farming and was employed at Harlan Feed Service until March 1993 when he retired and moved to Okoboji, Iowa. This was his home until 2003, when they decided to move back to Harlan. He was confirmed on January 29, 1950 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville, Iowa and remained a member of the church until his death. Orvis died on December 18, 2007, at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa having attained the age of ninety-one years, two months, and eight days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Florence; his son Keith, and his siblings: Norma Alma, Marinus, and Leo. He is survived by his children: Richard and his wife Maudie Behrens of Kingman, Arizona; Betty Jacob of Bellevue, Nebraska; Lyle and his wife Connie Behrens of Jacksonville, Iowa; David and his wife Hattie Behrens of Harlan, Iowa; Peggy and her husband William Fewell of Lake View, Iowa; twelve grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; one sister Elvira and her husband Harold Neuswanger of Oregon; two brothers: Calvin Behrens and his wife Donna of Oregon and John Behrens, Jr. and his wife Jeri of Washington; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends. Funeral Services were held Friday, December 21, 2007, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Ron Rasmussen officiated the 1:00 PM service with burial at the Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were: Rod Owens, Dave Meinershagen, Leo Kenkel, Stanely Behrens, Dennis Coenen, Anthony Behrens and James Behrens.
Verlee
Muller
Bernard -
Age 79 Verlee Bernard was born on July 25, 1927, to Glen and Opal (Goodner) Custer in Harlan, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa. Verlee attended country school near Corley, Iowa, through the eighth grade and finished her schooling in Harlan graduating from Harlan Community High School. On February 22, 1948, she was united in marriage to Dale Muller at the Harlan United Methodist Church in Harlan. Four children were born to this union: Shari, Bonnie, Timothy, and Dennis. After Dale’s death on October 29, 1986, Verlee remained dedicated to caring for people and continued to serve in the church and live her life for Christ. On January 15, 1994, Verlee was married to Walter "Walt" Bernard at the United Methodist Church in Defiance. She was a member of that congregation from the time of her marriage until her death. She loved listening to music, being involved with her church, and gardening. She especially loved spending time with her family and doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Verlee Bernard died on Sunday, April 8, 2007, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, having attained the age of seventy-nine years, eight months, and fourteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dale Muller, her daughter Bonnie Budolfson, her brothers: Ival and Glade Custer, her son-in-law Ray Pleak, two great-grandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren. She is survived by her husband Walt Bernard of Harlan, Iowa; her children: Shari and her husband Victor Miller of Harlan, Timothy Muller and his wife Jolene of Denison, Iowa, and Dennis Muller and his wife Donna of Defiance, Iowa; her step-daughters: Starla and her husband Jeff Kraber of Forest, Virginia, and Tamara and her husband Jeff Rapp of Oseola, Wisconsin, twelve grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, six step-great-grandchildren, her son-in-law Bob Budolfson of Mountain Home, AR, nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. A Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, April 11, 2007, with Rev. Keith Pals officiating the 10:30 AM service at the United Methodist Church in Defiance, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Amy Siefken, Courtney Sonderman, Erin Zea, and Carrie Carson. Serving as casket bearers were Matthew Muller, Brent Budolfson, Dennis Muller, Timothy Muller, Tobin Muller, Jacob Muller, Ryan Pleak, Brad Budolfson, Brett Budolfson, and Tyler Muller. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa
Verdilla
"Dolly" Bertelsen - Age 97 Verdilla "Dolly" Theresa Bertelsen, daughter of Edward and Magdalena (Klein) Wageman, was born on April 13, 1911, on the family farm northwest of Defiance, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance and attended country school and St. Peter’s Catholic Schools. Dolly’s father loved music and taught the girls how to play musical instruments. Dolly learned to play the violin and she and her sisters played for dances in Shelby County and other adjoining counties. Their band was known as the Wageman Girls Orchestra. For the Harlan Fall Festival in 1935, they shared the stage with Ronald Reagan who was the radio announcer for KRNT and the Andrew Sisters from Des Moines. The Wageman Girls also played for the first dance at the new Defiance Community Hall. The following week’s dance featured the Lawerence Wilk Orchestra. She moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1936 where she graduated from Miller Vocational College with her LPN degree. She worked at the Sheltering Arms Hospital which specialized in children with polio. While attending college, she was chosen as the "Florence Nightingale Nurse" of the year. Dolly also worked for many years as a cocktail and banquet waitress at the famous restaurant "Covered Wagon" in downtown Minneapolis. She served many politicians including Hubert Humphrey. In September 1952, Dolly married her longtime friend Harry Bertelsen. They were later divorced. Following her retirement in 1972, she joined the Kevin Belles - a women’s musical comedy group from St. Kevin’s Parish in south Minneapolis. She played the violin, sang, and was featured as "Hello Dolly" from the Johnny Carson show. She was part of this group for eighteen years. After a serious car accident in 1997, she moved to the Apple Valley Villa to be near her son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It was there that she died on Saturday, July 5, 2008 having attained the age of ninety-seven year, two months, and twenty-two days. She is preceded in death by her parents; one granddaughter Joan Wageman; and her siblings: Kathryn Sonderman, Rose McCollum; Henry Wageman; and George Wageman. She is survived by her son Jack Wageman of Apple Valley, Minnesota; three grandchildren: Tom Wageman and his wife Lori; Jerry Wageman and his wife Marsha; and Jackie Jones; six great-grandchildren: Heather, Sarah, Jill, Jolaine, Allyson, and Jason; her sisters: Josephine Marshall of Dunlap, Iowa; Ann Wetherly of Apple Valley, Minnesota; and Leona Buman of Harlan, Iowa; her brothers: Elmer Wageman and his wife Margaret of Defiance, Iowa and Edward Wageman and his wife Judy of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, July 11, 2008 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa with Rev. Tom Coenen presiding over the 10:30 AM service. Serving as casket bearers were John Foline, Don Wageman, Bill McCollum, George Sonderman, Georgene Schaben, Bob Marshall, and Norma Gross with interment held at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance.
Father Paul Bianchi - Age 70 Father Paul Bianchi was born on November 28, 1936 in Omaha, Nebraska to Louis and Mary (Surber) Bianchi. He had been a member of the Benedictine Order for many years both at Conception Abbey, Conception, Missouri, and later at St. Pius X Abbey in Pevely, Missouri. He joined the Diocese of Des Moines in 1991 and served at St. Pius X in Urbandale, Iowa, St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa, St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa, St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa, and Sts. Peter and Paul in Atlantic, Iowa. For many years he was the assistant to the bishop of the diocese and served as vicar for priests and diocesan archivist. Father Paul’s final assignment before retirement was pastor of St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Father Paul Bianchi died on November 26, 2007, in Las Vegas, Nevada, having attained the age of seventy years, eleven months, and twenty-nine days. He had been serving as rector of the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer since his retirement from priestly ministry in the Diocese of Des Moines in 2004. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Louis, and his sisters Mary Louise Lyons and Beverly Jean Hartman. He is survived by his sister Suzanne and her husband Ron Mahoney, Council Bluffs, Iowa, nieces and nephews, other family members, and many friends. A memorial service was held at the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer in Las Vegas on December 4, 2007. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, December 12, 2007, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa, with Celebrant Bishop Joseph L. Charron and Concelebrants Msgr. Stephen Orr and Rev. John Dorton performing the 10:30 AM service. Inurnment was held at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia, Iowa.
Helen B. Bieker - Age 91 Helen Barbara Bieker, the daughter of Nicholas and Elizabeth Thielen Leuschen, was born on November 21, 1914, at Portsmouth, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa, and confirmed at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. Helen attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Panama and graduated from high school there as a member of the class of 1933. Helen then attended Mount Saint Scholastica College in Atchison, Kansas and later taught school in a one-room school house located 1½ miles north of Highway 44 on M-16 in Shelby County, Iowa. On June 27, 1940, Helen was united in marriage to Edmund A. Bieker at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. Their fifty year union was graced with five children: Alice, Daniel, Arthur, Robert and Julia. Helen and Edmund raised their family in Defiance, Iowa, where Helen was active in St. Peter’s Parish as a member of the Altar Society. Helen enjoyed being a proud wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother as well as sewing, quilting, crocheting, baking, gardening, and traveling to visit her children and grandchildren. Helen died on Saturday, the fourth day of February 2006, at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-one years, two moths, and thirteen days. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Edmund on February 11, 1991; her brothers and sisters: Hilda Fahn, Henrietta Schilz, Marie Coenen, Urban, Donald, Rita, and Nicholas Leuschen; great-granddaughter, Ellery Bieker. Survivors include her children: Alice and her husband, Ernest Journell of Pearisburg, Virginia; Daniel Bieker and his wife Jean of Harlan, Iowa; Arthur Bieker and his wife, Mary of Omaha, Nebraska; Robert Bieker and his wife, Margo of Omaha, Nebraska; Julia and her husband, Bill Schaben of Defiance, Iowa; twelve grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; and brother, John Leuschen of Panama, Iowa; sisters-in-laws: Anna Mae Leuschen of Harlan, Iowa; Mick Bieker of Harlan, Iowa; Dorothy Stenzel of Plainfield, Illinois; nieces, nephews, and many friends. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday, February 6, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa with Rev. Michael Berner as the celebrant. Serving as casket bearers were Brian Bieker, Robert Bieker, Dan Bieker, Arthur Bieker, Benjamin Schaben, Craig Bieker and William Schaben. Interment was in the Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Defiance, Iowa.
Earl "Bud" Bintz - Age 88 Earl Walter Bintz, the son of Walter P and Emily Kraack Bintz, was born on January 16, 1920 on the family farm near Minden, Iowa where he spent all his life except for the three years, three months while he was serving in World War II. Bud went to country school and then graduated from Minden High School in 1936. In 1942 Bud enlisted in the United States Army and spent two years in the Aleutian Islands during that Campaign. He returned the to the states in 1944 and was discharged out of Jacksonville, Florida on November 5, 1945. Bud was united in marriage to Phyllis Larimore on July 19, 1942 at the Hanscom Park Methodist Church in Omaha, Nebraska. To this union three children were born: Gale, Becky and Mary. Bud was very happy with his Minden and Neola friends and always said : "It's a garden spot, stay there." Bud worked on the farm and did some carpentry work also. Bud enjoyed playing baseball until he was 40 years old. He also enjoyed bowling, dancing, playing cards and being among friends. He was a great father to his children and a wonderful grandpa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bud served as the Commander of the Minden Legion Post #437 when they built the new Legion Hall following the Minden tornado. He was also a member of the VFW. Bud died at the Woodlands Rehabilitation Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Thursday, February 28, 2008 having attained the age of eighty-eight years, one month and twelve days. He is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of sixty-five years, Phyllis; a son, Gale Bintz and his wife Diana of Council Bluffs; daughters: Becky and her husband Wayne Jacobsen of Avoca and Mary and her husband David Lefeber of Minden; grandchildren: Kevin and his wife Jodi, Robb and his wife Melissa, Jill and her husband Russ, Jani and her husband Bob, Jennifer, Laura and Bryan; great grandchildren: Jordan, Jessica, Kasey and Tim, Morgan, Mattie, Colton, Kendall, Gracie, Dan, Tiffany and her husband Rudy and Tracy; and a great great grandson Gavin; sister, Eudine Church of Yankton, South Dakota; sisters-in-law: Colleen Rutenbeck of Des Moines, Iowa and Robin and her husband Gene Thomsen of Kimballton, Iowa; many nieces, nephews; and a host of friends. Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 1, 2008 at the Minden United Church of Christ with Pastor Brian Wohlhuter officiating. Burial was in the Minden Cemetery. Those serving as Honorary Casket Bearers were Gus Hartje, Jerome Driver, Orville Wedel, Harold Lefeber, Robert "Buck" Mauer and Harold Bintz. Active Casket Bearers were Robb Jacobsen, Kevin Jacobsen, Bryan Lefeber, Terry Church, Bob Mings and Russ Hays. Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca were in charge of the arrangements.
Merlynn Paul Bintz, son of Adolph P. and Lydia C. (Eckert) Bintz, was born on June 4, 1926, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He grew up on his parent’s farm outside of Minden, Iowa was baptized and confirmed at Zion Congregational Church in Minden. He attended grade school in the country and later graduated from Minden High School with the class of 1943. After high school, Merlynn entered the service where he served his country during World War II with the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, Merlynn returned to Minden to work on the family farm. On March 30, 1957, Merlynn was united in marriage to Carolyn Reinert at the Zion Congregational Church in Minden. Before being married, Merlynn promised Carolyn he would have a house for them to live in on the family farm. The house on the farm was in disrepair, so Merlynn went to Council Bluffs and purchased an old school building and brought the lumber back to his parent’s farm and began to build a new house from the ground up. More than a year after their engagement and a month after their marriage, Merlynn and Carolyn moved into their new home. Merlynn and Carolyn were blessed with four children during their marriage. While still working on their house, Carolyn was expecting twins and kept working hard putting in hardwood floors throughout the house even late into her pregnancy. As their family grew, so did the house and Merlynn was quite proud of both. Even the farm itself grew and old buildings had to be torn down and new one’s built. Merlynn loved to work the family farm with his brothers and father and together they replaced several of those worn out buildings themselves. The family always stayed on the family farm and Merlynn enjoyed raising his kids on the same land he farmed for so many years with his father. Even when he was young, Merlynn was active in 4-H and even became more involved as his children grew up on the farm, helping out as a 4-H leader. The farm was always a family farm and everyone pitched in to make sure all the chores were done. Besides being a lifelong member of the Minden United Church of Christ, Merlynn served on the County Extension Council and was also a commissioner of the Soil Conservation District. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and looked forward to seeing them at any occasion. Merlynn died on Tuesday, June 8, 2004 at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. He had attained the age of seventy eight years and four days. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Carolyn of Avoca, Iowa; his son, Dwight Bintz of Avoca, Iowa; his three daughters: Denise Nihsen and her husband Ron and Deloma Fischer and her husband Ben, all of Minden, Iowa and Diane Mills and her husband Don of Weeping Water, Nebraska; nine grandchildren; two brothers: Herbert Bintz and his wife Jervaise of Hancock, Iowa and Carroll Bintz and his wife Katheryn of Neola, Iowa, other relatives, his very special dog, "Yorkie," and many, friends.
Pauline Bissen - Age 76
Pauline Josephine Bissen, the daughter of Henry
and Magdalena Schaben Feser, was born on February 7, 1930, on a farm
near Westphalia, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s
Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa and attended school at St. Paul’s
Catholic School in Defiance, where she graduated from high school in
1947.
Ardith
I. Bivens - Age 66 Ardith Irene Bivens, age 66, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa after a battle with cancer. Funeral services were held on Friday, May 19, 2006 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa. Pastor Diane Holland of the Altamont Baptist Church provided the services for Ardith and her family. Ardith was laid to rest at the Avoca Cemetery next to her son, Marty. Ardith Irene Bivens was born August 3, 1939 at home in a small farmhouse in Cuppys Grove. She was baptized at the Altamont Baptist Church in January of 1951 and became a member of the church October 28, 1951. Her son, Marty, her parents, her nephew Randy, new nephew Jeremy, her brother Don, and sister Marvel preceded Ardith in death. She leaves to mourn her passing, her daughter Tracie Bivens and John Wood of Norwalk, Iowa, her best friend Dennis Akers of Avoca, Iowa, his family: Rob, Amy, Erin, and Logan Akers of Walnut, Iowa, Ryan, Angie, Hunter and Kylie of Lake Park, Iowa, Linda and John Hall of Omaha, Nebraska; five siblings and their families: Lavonne and Fred Fox of Harlan, Iowa, Dick and Karen Anderson of Harlan, Iowa, Wayne and Mary Anderson of Knoxville, Iowa, Norma Anderson of Harlan, Iowa, Lois Gordon of Harlan, Iowa; dear friends: Pat and Larry Butler of Boulder City, Nevada, Grace and Gary Madden of Avoca, Iowa, Sandy and Dar Wilson of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Serving as Honorary Casket Bearers were Rob Akers, Gary Madden, Ryan Akers, John Wood, Chuck Madden, Sr., Bob Gries, David Anderson and Ronnie Akers. Casket Bearers were Dale Gries, Kenny Anderson, Delmar Gries, Ronald Fox, Joe David and Randy Schnack.
Barbara Bjoin
- Age 71 Barbara Burke Bjoin, daughter of Robert and Eleanor (Crowley) Burke, was born on July 16, 1936 in Illinois. She grew up in Bronxville, New York and graduated from Wells College in Aurora, New York. Following college graduation, Barbara went on to a career at the Ladies Home Journal in New York City until her marriage, when she became a full-time housewife and mother. On April 22, 1961, Barbara was united in marriage to Vincent Edwin Bjoin at Bay Pine Chapel in Bay Pines, Florida. Vincent and Barbara were the parents of three children: Jeffrey, Elizabeth, and Robert. Throughout her life, she was very involved in her community and church and enjoyed playing bridge, shopping, traveling and time spent with many friends and family. She was also a member of TTT, a philanthropic women’s organization whose mission is to send ten-year-old girls to camp. She was a member of the Marshalltown Hospital Auxiliary Board and St. Rita’s Catholic Women’s Study Group. Barbara was a longtime resident of Naperville, Illinois and Marshalltown, Iowa before moving closer to her family in Harlan in March 2007. Barbara died on Monday, July 7, 2008, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-one years, eleven months and twenty-one days. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Vincent. She is survived by her children: Jeffrey Bjoin and his wife Mary of Burbank, California; Elizabeth Bjoin of Niwot, Colorado; and Robert Bjoin and his wife Lynelle of Harlan, Iowa; five grandchildren: Tracy O’Neal of North Hollywood, California; Jenny, Brandon, Matthew, and Nathan Bjoin all of Harlan; brothers Michael Burke and his wife Chantal of Chatham, Massachusetts and Bob Burke of Sharon, Connecticut; nieces, nephews, and many friends. Memorials can be directed toward Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa or Chapter ET of TTT of Marshalltown, Iowa, 50158. Funeral Services were held on Friday, July 11, 2008 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Rev. Lauri Boysen and Deacon Pat Davitt officiated the 1:00 PM service. Serving as casket bearers were Barbara’s grandchildren: Tracy O’Neal, Jenny Bjoin, Brandon Bjoin, Matthew Bjoin, and Nathan Bjoin. Lunch was held at Harlan Golf & Country Club in Harlan following the service.
Elwin Wayne Bladt, the son of Daniel and Ida Holdorf Bladt, was born on October 31, 1926 in Pleasant Township, Pottawattamie County, Iowa. Bud was baptized and confirmed at the Minden Congregational Church. He attended Pleasant Township Elementary and graduated from Shelby High School with the class of 1944. After high school Bud entered the United States Army on February 14, 1945. Bud received medals for Expert Rifle, Infantryman, Pacific Region Ribbon for good conduct and he received the rank of Sergeant. Bud was united in marriage to Betty Petersen on December 8, 1950 at the Minden Congregational Church. To this union two children were born: Wayne and Dawn. Bud was engaged in farming and raising cattle for over fifty years. As a hobby he raised quarter horses. He was very proud of his cattle and being a farmer. Bud died at his home, where he was born and raised, on November 14, 2007 having attained the age of eighty one years and fourteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife Betty of Avoca; his children: Wayne Bladt and his wife Mary Beth of Avoca and Dawn and her husband Phil Hobbs of LaVista, Nebraska; three grandchildren: Jonathan, Elaina and Anna; two step grandchildren: Abigail and Ashley; two brothers: Donald Bladt of Shelby, Iowa and Willis Bladt and his wife Norma of Avoca, Iowa; nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends. Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 10:30 AM at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Nancy Ross-Hullinger officiating. Burial was in the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa with military rites conducted by Fred Funston Post #227. Serving as honorary casket bearers for the service were Harold Nihsen, Harley Nihsen, Paul Nihsen, Ronald Nihsen, Stanley Thies, Steve Bladt, Larry Bladt, Dennis Bladt and Robert Hundt. Active casket bearers were Brad Hundt, David Bladt, David Thies, David Wahling, Robert Nihsen and Daniel Bladt.
Edgar
Blum - Age 97 Edgar Joseph Blum was born on January 23, 1910, to John and Elizabeth (Ruschenberg) Blum in Defiance, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance. He attended country schools and the school in Defiance. He went on to Coyne Electrical School in Chicago and graduated in 1931. After completing his education, Edgar worked with George Rosman wiring farmsteads. Edgar was united in marriage to Helen Doan of Dow City, Iowa, on July 31, 1939, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Five children were born to this union: Marilyn, Linda, Kenneth, Keith, and Cynthia. After their marriage, Edgar farmed in the Earling area and became a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and remained a member there for over sixty years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1741. Edgar’s hobbies included golfing, playing cards, and his passion for steam engines and trains. In past years, he and Helen often entertained the residents at Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling by playing guitar and singing. After Edgar retired from farming, he drove a school bus for nine years. The family moved into Earling in 1965 where he held many offices including councilman, treasurer, and mayor. Edgar was admitted to Little Flower Haven on March 15, 2000, where he died on Wednesday, October 31, 2007, having attained the age of ninety-seven years, nine months, and eight days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Rev. Victor Blum, Rev. Virgil Blum, Sister M. Roselle Blum, O.S.F., Leander "Jim" Blum, Cyril Blum, LaVern Blum, Ermin Blum, Edwin Blum, and Mary Ann Wilwerding. Edgar is survived by his wife, Helen, being married to her for sixty-eight years, his children: Marilyn and her husband, Jack Munchrath of Omaha, Nebraska, Linda Freund-Ebbinga and her husband Bill, of Griswold, Iowa, Kenneth Blum and his wife, Connie of Shawnee, Kansas, Keith Blum and his wife Tatyana, of Shawnee, Kansas, and Dr. Cindy Schneider of Mobile, Alabama; twenty grandchildren; forty great-grandchildren; his brother Reno Blum and his wife Ethel, of Ralston, Nebraska; his sister Delores Kaufman of Harlan, Iowa; one brother-in-law, Joe Wilwerding of Omaha, Nebraska; two sisters-in-law: Loretta Blum of Omaha, and Joan Blum of Placerville, California; nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, November 3, 2007, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Rev. Tom Coenen officiated the 10:30 AM service. Honorary casket bearers were David Freund, Kyle Munchrath, Clint Freund, Jeremy Blum, Wesley Blum, and Tom Freund. Serving as casket bearers were Darby McLaren, Brad Munchrath, Stephen Freund, Robb Blum, Greg Munchrath, and Chris Freund. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.
Elizabeth "Betty" Blum - Age 88 Elizabeth "Betty" Adelaide Blum, the daughter | |||||||||||
Maude was admitted to Myrtue Medical Center on Thursday, March 13, 2008, and it was there that she died on Tuesday, March 18, 2008, having attained the age of one hundred years, seven months, and eighteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers: Samuel and Duane Gardner.
