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.

Alice C. Bieker - Age 87

     Alice Caroline Bieker was born to John Anton and Ruzena (Fucik) Masek of Ulysses, Nebraska. During World War II, she worked at the Nebraska Ordinance Plant in Mead. She married Jerry Bieker on July 9, 1945, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Omaha; they made their home in Defiance, Iowa, and operated the Defiance Telephone Company. To this union were born eight girls and two boys.

     Alice was active in the Altar and Rosary Society of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, and she was a past president of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (Des Moines Diocese). She also served as the leader of the Defiance Masterettes 4-H club in the 1970s; she was active on the Defiance Centennial Committee and served twenty years on the Defiance Cemetery Committee; and she served as the Shelby County delegate at the Democratic National Convention in 1976. Alice moved to Omaha in 1983, where she enjoyed retirement by crocheting, quilting, and visiting the casinos. During her life, Alice took pleasure in music and dancing, playing cards and bingo, working jigsaw puzzles and gardening. She loved visiting with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. For the past fifteen years, she has been lovingly cared for by her daughter, Marcy.

     Alice died on Tuesday, May 25, 2010, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months, and three days. She is preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her brothers Martin Masek, John Masek (Madeline) and Fred Masek (Eleanor); and by her sister Agnes Masek.

     She is survived by her children: Norma Jean and her husband Frank Pycha of Fountain Hills, Arizona; Geraldine "Jodie" and her husband Ron Wingert of Earling, Iowa; Kathleen and her husband Edmund Franklin of Kitchener, Ontario; Marcelene "Marcy" Bieker of Omaha, Nebraska; Mary Alice and her husband Tom Whigham of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Jerald "Bud" Bieker and his wife Joan of Defiance, Iowa; Denise and her husband Alan Bresette of Mesa, Arizona; Judith and her husband Ed Brodnicki of Omaha, Nebraska; James Bieker and his wife Deb of Elk Horn, Iowa; Shari and her husband Mark Mutchler of Liberty, Missouri; thirteen grandchildren: Nancy and her husband Cory Isebrand of LeMars, Iowa; David Wingert and his wife Julie of Primghar, Iowa; Mark Wilson of Webster City, Iowa; Jennifer and her husband David McKinnon of Waterloo, Ontario; Christopher Robin and his wife Missy of Tallahassee, Florida; Ross Whigham and his wife Kacie of Keller, Texas; Sean Patrick Whigham of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Sara and her husband Matt English of Omaha, Nebraska; Carla Bieker of Centennial, Colorado; Mason Beiker; Colin Bieker both of Defiance, Iowa; Marquette Mutchler and Jerry Mutchler both of Liberty, Missouri; five great-grandchildren; her sisters: Mary and her husband Ed Seidenglanz; Helen and her husband Ed Janek; and Sally and her husband Richard Sanley; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, May 28, 2010, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa, with Rev. John L. Pietramale celebrating and Rev. Howard Fitzgerald concelebrating the 10:30 AM service. Interment was held at Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Defiance with Matt English, Sean Patrick Whigham, Mason Bieker, Colin Bieker, Cory Isebrand, and David Wingert serving as casket bearers.

Clement A. Bieker - Age 94

     Clement August Bieker, Sr., son of Otto and Bernadine (Munchrath) Bieker, was born on January 23, 1916, in Earling, Iowa. Clement had four siblings: Bernard, Jerome, Genevieve and Leona. Earling offered fertile territory for an inquisitive mind and Clem took full advantage. At the age of twelve, he witnessed the soul-stirring account of a diabolical possession (as reported by Rev. Carl Vogl) and at the age of sixteen had fashioned an automobile of sorts ("from various parts picked up around town") that transported him about the rutty roads of the countryside.

     After an exciting youth in Earling, Clem attended St. Ambrose College’s Seminary program in Davenport, Iowa, for two years. Meeting Valdine Marie Pauley that summer at the swimming hole in Defiance, Iowa, Clem pursued a different direction in life, graduating from Iowa State University (majored in The Classics) and married his sweetheart, Valdine, in 1940.

     Clem and Val moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where Clem spent three and a half years in the US Navy as a Radio Technician and began a family that would grow to six children: Clement, Jr., Rodger, Terrance, Rebecca, Barbara, and Joseph. Clem loved family get-togethers, vacations, fishing, hunting and golf. Some of the greatest experiences the children remember with their mom and dad were camping in national parks, fishing, trail blazing and building campfires. Clem built two new homes and totally renovated four others as the family moved about the Midwest eleven times in fifty years. He could fix anything and always took the time to explain how things worked or to pursue an impassioned epistemological discussion.

     Clem traveled quite a bit for work and always with the family in tow. After being discharged from the military, Clem worked for the A&P, then FDA in the Food Division, and eventually retired in 1978 as District Manager for Credit for Sears Roebuck Co. (a 30 year career). After retiring from Sears Roebuck, Clem and Val finally settled in Edina, Minnesota, where they enjoyed gardening, golfing and playing bridge with friends and family. Clem stayed there until Valdine passed away in 1995, after fifty-five years of marriage. Clem and his family were then blessed when he met Hazel Lewis, a dear friend, until her passing in the summer of 2008. While in Edina, Clem was a member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

     In 2004, Clem moved to assisted living in Ft. Myers and then to Estero, Florida, where his care was managed by his son, Clem Jr., and his daughter-in-law Sandy. After a long struggle with Alzheimer’s, Clem passed away late in the evening on February 4, 2010, at the Life Care Center in Estero, Florida, having attained the age of ninety-four years and twelve days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Valdine; and his brothers Bernard and Jerome.

     He is survived by his children: Clement Jr. (Sandy Backdahl) of Bonita Springs, Florida; Rodger of Clearwater, Minnesota; Terrance (Jeanne-Marie Varga) of Orchid Island, Florida; Rebecca (Richard) Seeger of New Bern, North Carolina; Barbara (John) Wehling of Woodbury, Minnesota; and Joseph (Rosemary Girard) of Boulder, Colorado; eleven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; his sisters Genevieve Spanton of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Leona Leighton of Waconia, Minnesota; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     Clem was always very kind, loving and gentle and upon his passing will be dearly missed.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, April 24, 2010, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa, with Rev. Howard Fitzgerald celebrating the 11:00 AM service. Inurnment was held at Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Defiance, Iowa.

Memorials preferred to Hope Hospice of Estero, FL or

St. Peter's Catholic Church in Defiance.

     Alma Frances Bissen, daughter of Gilbert and Lidwina (Eisterhold) Rau, was born on February 26, 1931, on a farm near Westphalia, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Portsmouth, Iowa.

     On November 16, 1949, Alma was united in marriage to Jerry Kramer at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth. Six children were born to this union of forty-two years: Sandy, Debbie, John, Larry, Geralyn, and Tami. After their wedding, Alma and Jerry farmed for several years in Southwest Iowa before moving into Harlan in 1965 where Alma worked as a part-time custodian for Harlan Community Schools, the United Methodist Church, and St. Michael’s Catholic Church and Rectory. She retired in 2000.

     On February 19, 1999, Alma was united in marriage to Paul Bissen at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. After their wedding, Alma and Paul made their home in Harlan.

     Alma was a member of St. Michaels’ Catholic Church in Harlan. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, playing cards and bingo, taking trips to the casinos and spending time with her very large family. She had an amazing work ethic, a very green thumb, and an incredible ability to make people smile and laugh in any situation. When Alma walked into a room, it was suddenly brighter because you knew she was going to say something funny even if she didn’t mean to.

     Alma died on Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-eight years, two months, and seventeen days. She is preceded in death by her parents; her first husband Jerry; her daughter Debbie Rounds; her two brothers Mike and Leo; her two sisters Marie "Mamie" Grote and Sr. M. Lita Veronica Rau, OSF and John’s domestic partner Mae Parks.

     She is survived by her husband Paul Bissen of Harlan, Iowa; her children: Sandy and her husband Dave Hopper of Carroll, Iowa; John Kramer of Easton, Kansas; Larry Kramer of Harlan; Geralyn Kramer of Mason City, Iowa; Tami and her husband Alan Meiners of Dedham, Iowa; her stepdaughters Tracy Bissen and her friend Eddie Walker of Bruce, Florida and Terry Thayer and her husband Michael of Jacksonville, Florida; thirteen grandchildren: Joey Hansen and his wife Jenny; Michelle Hansen; Jeremy Rounds and his wife Angie; Mark Rounds; Sarah Rounds; Lynzie Rounds; Kyle Kramer; Grant, Will, and Lydia Meiners; Christopher Duncan; and Taylor and Zach Thayer; nine great-grandchildren; her son-in-law Robert Rounds; her siblings: Dorothy Gaul of Earling, Iowa; Leo Rau and his wife Jane of Omaha, Nebraska; Zita Bruck of Harlan; Jeanette and her husband Richard Mikels of Portsmouth, Iowa; Martha Mumm of Harlan, Iowa; Verla and her husband Charles Mumm of Earling; Patricia and her husband Gordon Kuether of Pierce, Nebraska; Gilbert Rau, Jr. and his wife Mary Ann of Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Judy and her husband Richard Jones of Omaha; Mervin and her husband Nels Nelson of Texas; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrating the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Don Kramer, Dennis Mumm, Mike Mumm, Gary Kramer, Wayne Bruck, and Frank Heese serving as casket bearers.

     Leonard "Bud" Marcus Bissen, oldest son of Joseph John and Anna (Erlbacher) Bissen, was born on November 9, 1922, in Buck Grove, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa, and attended St. Paul’s grade school and high school graduating in 1941.

     On June 27, 1945, Bud was inducted into the United States Navy in Denison, Iowa. During World War II, Bud served in Great Lakes, Illinois, and in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii serving aboard the USS Bagley. Bud was honorably discharged on July 10, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, having attained the rank of Seaman Second Class.

     After returning home from the service, Bud was united in marriage to Bernice Kenkel on October 1, 1946 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Their three children are: Betty, Bill, and Barb. After their wedding, Bud and Bernice made their home north of Earling for five years before moving two miles north of Defiance where Bud farmed and raised livestock.

     Bud was a lifetime member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance and was an active member of Knights of Columbus, Council No. 1741, of Earling, Iowa. He was also active with the local 4-H Club activities for many years and the Defiance and Westphalia American Legion Post No. 707.

     Bud served on the Board of Education for St. Paul’s Catholic School and the St. Peter’s Finance and Cemetery Committee. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors while farming and gardening and also while golfing, fishing and hunting. Bud had a great sense of humor and should always be remembered for his commitment to his faith, his family, his farm and his flag. He made many Job’s Tears rosaries for his family and friends. Bud was honored when he was able to make the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. and visit the World War II Monument. He was extremely proud of his service and his participation each year in the Memorial Day Service.

     Bud died on Tuesday, May 25, 2010, at Creighton Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, six months, and sixteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Francis.

     He is survived by his wife, Bernice Bissen of Defiance, Iowa; their children: Betty and her husband Gail Foxhoven of Earling, Iowa; Bill Bissen of Defiance; Barb Doran of Plano, Texas; six grandchildren: Tammy and her husband Greg Bladt of Harlan, Iowa; John Foxhoven of Omaha, Nebraska; Ann Foxhoven of Earling; Marcus Doran, Rachel Doran and Alison Doran all of Plano, Texas; four great-grandchildren: Drew, Haley, Alex, and Aiden Bladt; his siblings: Benita Schiltz of Earling; Marvin Bissen and his wife Helen of Harlan; Ann Christiansen of Carroll, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Sunday, May 30, 2010, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa, with Rev. Howard Fitzgerald celebrating and Rev. Ben Kenkel concelebrating the 2:30 PM service. Military Rites were held at Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Defiance by the Defiance and Westphalia American Legion Post No. 707. Serving as casket bearers were: Dean Bissen, Delbert Bissen, Dennis Bissen, Bob Schiltz, John Foxhoven, and Marcus Doran.

Sylvia M. Bissen - Age 80

     Sylvia Mary Bissen was born on May 24, 1928, to George and Mary (Seimer) Arkfeld in Panama, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Panama and attended both elementary and high school at St. Mary’s Catholic School. After graduation, she attended St. Scholastica College in Atchinson, Kansas.

     She was united in marriage to Gerald J. Bissen on February 16, 1949 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Panama. Nine children were born to this union: Lora, Bette, Bob, Peg, Jim, Dale, Jerry, Chris, and Ron. She taught school for one year in Kirkman, Iowa before staying home with her children.

     Sylvia was a loving and devoted mother and was involved in 4-H as a leader. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court St. Katherine, #266 of Earling, Iowa, and was an Archdiocese Board Member.

     Her hobbies include playing cards and bingo with her friends, crocheting, quilting, baking, and gardening. She enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren at their sporting events.

     Sylvia died at Jennie Edmundson Memorial Hospital on Sunday, December 28, 2008, having attained the age of eighty years, seven months, and four days. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers and sisters: Archbishop Leo Arkfeld, Florence Ohlinger, Sally Kohles, Vince Arkfeld, Clem Arkfeld, Lucille Arkfeld and Mary Arkfeld.

     She is survived by her husband of fifty-nine years, Gerald Bissen of Earling, Iowa; her children: Lora and her husband Tom Heit of Evansdale, Iowa, Bette and her husband Steve Sheeran of Seattle, Washington, Bob Bissen and his wife Mary of Earling, Peg and her husband Mike Shappell of Loxahatchee, Florida, Jim Bissen and his wife Carla of Mesa, Arizona, Dale Bissen and his wife Julie of Woodbury, Minnesota, Jerry Bissen and his wife Lynn of Harlan, Iowa, Chris and her husband Dave Blum of Glenwood, Iowa, and Ron Bissen and his wife Melissa of Westminster, Maryland; twenty-four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister Rita and her husband John Kelly of Woodbine, Iowa; brother George Arkfeld of Oceanside, California; sisters-in-law: Mick Arkfeld, Carm Flickinger, Sally Smith, and Kathleen Bissen; nieces and nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, December 31, 2008 with Rev. Tom Coenen celebrating and Rev. Vince Ohlinger concelebrating the 10:30 AM service at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Casket bearers were Michael Bissen, Randy Bissen, Logan Shappell, Eric Blevins, Tommy Heit, and Robbie Bissen. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa.

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.

Edgar "Ed" L. Black - Age 81

     Edgar "Ed" Lowell Black was born on July 1, 1928 on a farm east of Everly, Iowa to Charles and Lillian (Harrison) Black. He attended Everly Schools and completed the eighth grade.

     On June 22, 1943, Ed was united in marriage to Favette Ginger in Rapid City, South Dakota. Eight children were born to this union: Juanita, Pam, Favella, Loretta, Carol, Jackie, Charles, and a stillborn infant.

     After their marriage, Ed went to work on a dairy farm in Rapid City. They moved to the Spencer, Iowa area in 1945 where he began farming. He also drove a truck and worked as a mechanic for Struthers Ford Tractor in Spencer.

     In 1983, Ed and Faye moved to a farm east of Hancock, Iowa, where Ed continued his farming career and contracted to haul waste from Oakland Foods until his retirement in 2000.

     In his spare time, Ed loved to refurbish antique furniture and make model airplanes out of aluminum soda cans. He was active in the Walnut Antique Days where you could always find him trying to help someone. He also loved to play cards, tell jokes, and came up with some amazing puzzles.

     One of his wishes was to visit the Grand Canyon, which he accomplished before his death on Friday, May 14, 2010. He had attained the age of eighty-one years, ten months, and thirteen days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant son, a grandson; his brother Foster, and his sister Wilma.

     Ed is survived by his wife of nearly sixty-seven years Faye Black of Hancock, Iowa; his children: Juanita and her husband Stanley Herzenach of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Pam Alspach of Goodell, Iowa, Charles Black and his wife Barrie of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Favella Baxter of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Loretta Journey of Chesapeake, Virginia, Carol and her husband Dwayne Hemminger of Hancock, Iowa, and Jackie Doe of Chesapeake, Virginia; twenty-six grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; his brother Duane Black of Reno, Nevada; sister Sandra of San Angelo, Texas; other family members and friends.

     Chaplain Linda Schlafer officiated the 1:00 PM graveside service on Thursday, May 20, 2010 at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa. Virgil Hildebrand was honorary casket bearer. Serving as casket bearers were Larry Jacobsen, Dwayne Hemminger, Richard Adams, Danny Black, Stanley Herzenach, and Mike Krueger.

Harold "Blackie" Blackwell - Age 81

     Harold "Blackie" Albert Blackwell, son of Albert and Ada (Bell) Blackwell, was born on April 25, 1927 in Union Township in Shelby County, Iowa. He was baptized at First Methodist Church in Harlan and graduated from Defiance Public High School in Defiance, Iowa. On July 4, 1945, Harold enlisted in the United States Navy at Carroll, Iowa. He was stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois and was Honorably Discharged in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on June 16, 1946, after attaining the rank of Seaman First Class.

     On June 24, 1950, Harold was united in marriage to Shirley Mae Juhl at her mother’s home in Harlan, Iowa. Four children were born to this union: Gail, Kenneth, Nancy, and Lea Ann. In the fall of 1960, Harold began working at Vandenberg Motors until 1961 when he started working at a couple body shops in Harlan and Atlantic. Harold enjoyed repairing things and opened his own body shop in Harlan from 1962 to 1972 when he began working at Harding Glass of Omaha until 1981. In 1981, Harold opened his own glass shop and continued to work there until his retirement.

     When Harold wasn’t busy working, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was always fair to his family and never showed favoritism among the kids. He also enjoyed flying and received his pilot’s license in 1951.

     Harold died on Thursday, March 19, 2009, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-one years, ten months, and twenty-two days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Ken and Lawrence; and his sister Gay.

     He is survived by his wife Shirley of Harlan, Iowa; their children: Gail Blackwell of Harlan; Kenneth Blackwell and his wife Carmen of Irwin, Iowa; Nancy and her husband Redge Pash; and Lea Ann Blackwell all of Harlan; six grandchildren; two step grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; his sisters: Peggy Tryon of Perry, Iowa; Genevieve Roy and Carmen and her husband Mack Hubbey all of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; other family members and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 23, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Jim Boardman and Pastor Dave Swinton officiated the 11:00 AM service. Military Rites were held at the Harlan Cemetery, in Harlan, Iowa, by Shelby County VFW Post No. 941 and Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150. Serving has honorary casket bearers were Dan Pash, Steven Blackwell, April Pash, Casey Fagen, Matt Blackwell, and Colby Pash.

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.

Emil J. Blum - Age 71

     Emil Joseph John Blum was born on March 13, 1938, and was the seventh child born to Martin "Chris" and Eleanor (Pauley) Blum on the family farm southwest of Panama, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Panama with the class of 1955. After high school, Emil continued his education at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.

     After school, Emil enlisted in the United States Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. After completing furlough, Emil was transferred to Fort Knox, Kentucky, on August 29, 1959. Emil was honorably discharged from the United States Army Reserve on June 14, 1961.

     After returning from the service, Emil worked on the family farm for two years before selling the farm on December 20, 1963. In early 1964, Emil moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he kept a simple apartment but often made the trip back to Panama to visit his parents.

     Years later, Emil continued to make the trip back to Panama to visit his brother Charley and sister Alice who would help Emil with his personal and business needs.

     Emil was found on Wednesday, July 22, 2009, at his apartment in Omaha, having attained the age of seventy-one years, four months, and nine days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Vernon and his sisters: Virginia, Mary and Audrey.

     He is survived by his siblings: Chris Blum, Jr. and his wife Pat of Portsmouth, Iowa; Charles Blum of Panama, Iowa; Sister Joyce Blum of Spencer, Iowa; Alice and her husband Jerry Zimmerman of Minden, Iowa; Jean and her husband Leroy Heese of Defiance, Iowa; Judy and her husband Fred Clark of Omaha, Nebraska; his brothers-in-law: Louis Wingert of Panama and Dennis Smith of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; nieces; nephews; other family members; classmates and friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. Rev. Bob Shoemann celebrated the 10:00 AM service with Rev. John Dorton concelebrating. Interment was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Panama with Emil’s nieces and nephews serving as casket bearers.

Logan Henry Blum - Age 20

     Logan was born October 23^rd, 1988, to Rick and Gwen (Pedersen) Blum, in Omaha, Nebraska. He was baptized at St. Pius X Catholic Church. His sister Hannah was born 14 months prior, and in 1994 Lucas was born and Haley in 1996. The Blums lived at 60^th and Grant Streets, and in 1990 moved into a new house "out west", at 144^th and Giles. Logan’s extended family for most of his childhood included the daycare kids Gwen watched in their home, so he learned to be a very social person right off the bat and was always around friends. He enjoyed any activity, and couldn’t handle sitting quietly, ever, unless it was to play video games. Always very impulsive, he managed to make several trips to the ER during his early years due to various minor incidents. Logan received first communion and was later confirmed at St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church in Millard. He attended St. Stephen’s elementary school, and later Russell Middle School.

     After 20 years in Omaha, the Blums returned with their family to live in their hometown of Walnut, Iowa in 2003, and Logie Bear began his first year of high school at WHS. He was an average student, but especially enjoyed art and shop class. He began playing organized sports in the first grade, and continued his love of baseball, basketball, and football throughout his life. He loved sports, but didn’t care to watch sports - he wanted to play. He was more content outdoors than anything, and loved to go camping with family and friends. He loved to fish, and amazingly was very patient when going after that big fish. He loved a wide range of music styles, and was constantly singing or humming a favorite song. On his first trip hunting pheasants, he bagged a rooster, on his first shot.

     Upon graduation from WHS in 2007, Logan joined the Air Force and completed basic training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas as a proud member of Flight 525. Unfortunately, he did not complete technical training, and was honorably discharged in December 2007. After returning to Walnut, he got a job with Murphy Heavy Construction in Anita, building bridges. He loved his work, and the people at Murphy’s.

     Logan died on January 3, 2009 in a car accident, at the tender age of 20. He was preceded in death by special friends Jennifer, Alec, Leita, and Brenda. He is survived by his parents and siblings, his maternal grandparents Louis, Jr. and Rosemary (Kutnink) Pedersen, his paternal grandmother Theresa (Schulte) Blum, and his maternal Great-Grandmother Edna Kutnink; aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, many friends far and wide, and Dottie, Mojo, Sebastian, and Sherbie.

     Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at the Walnut High School Gymnasium in Walnut, Iowa with Father John Frost officiating. Those serving as casket bearers were Dean Zornes, Chad Welter, Brittni Johnk, Ryan Frahm, Bryan Logemann, Kevin Osborn, Kyle King and Ryne Johnk. Burial was in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Walnut.

Marie A. Blum - Age 90

     Marie Ann Blum was born on August 1, 1919, to Henry and Martha (Reinig) Wingert on a farm near Panama, Iowa. She was baptized, received First Communion, and was confirmed at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama. She attended Washington Township No. 1 Country School and St. Mary’s Catholic School in Panama.

     Due to the untimely death of her mother when Marie was ten years old, she was unable to attend school after finishing the eighth grade. At that time she took over the household duties and the care of her family, especially her father who was suffering from cancer. This was no easy task at that time because they had no electricity or running water.

     On April 10, 1939, Marie was united in marriage to Herbert Blum at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama. Three children were born to this union: Les, Keith, and Kathy. After their wedding, Marie and Herb farmed near Westphalia, where they also ran a dairy farm for many years. They retired from farming in 1978.

     Marie and Herb spent twenty-eight winters in Arizona where they enjoyed mountain climbing and swimming. Marie also enjoyed reading romance novels and her prayerbooks, gardening, embroidering, crocheting and baking with and for her grandchildren.

     Marie died on Sunday, August 2, 2009, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety years and one day. She is preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Leo and Ray and her sister Agnes Rosman.

     She is survived by her husband Herb Blum of Harlan, Iowa; their children: Les Blum and his wife Janet of Harlan; Keith Blum and his wife Kathy of Waterloo, Iowa; Kathy and her husband Tom Mayer of Appletown, Wisconsin; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; her brother Tony Wingert and his wife Rose of Avoca, Iowa; sisters-in-law Carmela Grap of Portsmouth, Iowa; Antilia Wingert of Harlan; Bernice Rauterkus of Clear Lake, Wisconsin; and Mildred Blum of Cecil, Wisconsin; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, August 5, 2009, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa. Rev. John Dorton and Rev. Bob Hoefler concelebrated the 10:00 AM service with interment at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia. Serving as casket bearers were: Todd Blum, Trent Tompkins, Brad Blum, Neil Wingert, Wayne Wingert, Rod Zarling, and Jeff Steenbock.