Jesse E. Boardman - Age 95

     Jesse Elroy Boardman, son of John and Henrietta (Stewart) Boardman, was born August 19, 1914, near Tennant, Iowa. He grew up on the family farm and after graduating from Tennant High School, attended Iowa State College in Ames. It was there that he met the love of his life, Esther McFate of Grinnell, Iowa.

     Jesse and Esther were married on July 3, 1938, and they enjoyed fifty-nine years of marriage together before Esther’s death in July, 1997. They had three daughters, Jannis, Lorna and Betty Jo.

     Jesse was a farmer throughout his life. He raised cattle and hogs, corn and soybeans on his farm north of Tennant. After he and Esther retired to Harlan in 1974, he continued to tend livestock and raise crops on his farm. When his grandchildren came to visit, he enjoyed taking them on tractor and wagon rides. Jesse was a lifelong member of the Tennant Methodist Church.

     In 2001, Jesse moved to the Elm Crest Assisted Living Community in Harlan where he lived for the next eight years. On his 95th birthday, he was the honored guest of a party attended by Elm Crest residents and more than 30 relatives, including his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren who came from all across the country.

     On September 18, 2009, Jesse became a resident of the New Homestead Nursing Home in Guthrie Center, Iowa, to be closer to his daughter. He died on December 13, 2009, at the Guthrie County Hospital in Guthrie Center, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-five years, three months and twenty-four days.

     He is survived by his daughters Jannis and her husband Ed Hoobin of Panora, Iowa; Lorna and her husband Bill Kesler of St. Louis, Missouri; Betty Jo and her husband Dean Andrews of Holden, Massachusetts; seven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, other family members and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Thursday, December 17, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Jim Boardman officiating the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, with Philip Andrews, Wayne Boardman, Dylan Kesler, Nathan Andrews, John Soper, and Mark Andrews serving as casket bearers.

Mary E. Boeck - Age 70

     Mary Elizabeth Boeck was born on October 6, 1939 to Arnold and Laura (Prichard) Ackart in Avoca, Iowa. She attended Avoca Schools and graduated with the Class of 1957.

     She was united in marriage to Larry Lee Boeck on August 9, 1957 at the United Lutheran Church in Shelby, Iowa. Four children were born to this union: Rose, Julie, Marge, and Jim.

     Mary worked at the Embers Restaurant in Shelby and at the Kopper Kettle in Minden. She also worked at Tillie’s Café before owning and operating her own restaurant, Mary’s Kitchen. Mary loved her job in the Shelby School cafeteria and had enjoyed working with the people while at Hy-Vee in Harlan.

     She was the secretary at First Lutheran Church in Shelby and did volunteer work at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs, Iowa, after her retirement in 2000.

     Mary became a resident of the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in December of 2007 and it was there that she died on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, having attained the age of seventy years and seven days. She was preceded in death by her husband Larry, her parents, her brothers and sisters: James, Frances, Harold, Arlene, and Dorothy.

     She is survived by her children: Rose and her husband John Seffron of Ralston, Nebraska, Julie and her husband Mark Jensen of Walnut, Iowa, Marge and her husband Rick Newland of Portsmouth, Iowa, and Jim Boeck and his wife Georgia of Shelby, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters Betty Parham of Monticello, Minnesota and Karen and her husband Gary Parker of Adel, Iowa; brother Levi Ackart and his wife Janice of Greene, Iowa; and sisters-in-law Alice Jo Ackart of Waterloo, Iowa, and Bonita Ackart of Sunrise Beach, Missouri; other family members and many friends.

     Pastor Duane Anunson conducted the 11:00 AM funeral service on Monday, November 30, 2009, at the United Lutheran Church in Shelby, Iowa. Inurnment was held at the Shelby Cemetery.

Thomas Duane Boelman - Age 59

     Thomas "Tom" Boelman was born on September 2, 1947, in Aplington, Iowa to George and Anna (Kappel) Boelman. He attended Ackley grade school and Ackley-Geneva High School, graduating with the Class of 1965. He continued his education at Ellsworth Junior College in Iowa Falls, Iowa before enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served in Vietnam before being honorably discharged from the service in 1970.

     Tom started with Farmland Foods in 1970 at the Iowa Falls facility as a Production employee. Over the years, he worked his way up to Plant Engineer. In 1993, Tom accepted a position at the Denison plant as a Corporate Project Engineer and the family moved to Harlan, Iowa. He remained with Farmland his entire career and was honored in 2006 for thirty-five years of service.

     Tom was united in marriage on December 5, 1970, to Christine Miller. Two children were born to this union: Nicole and Ryan. Tom enjoyed the outdoors and spent a lot of time with his family, fishing and enjoying nature. He also loved to grill and smoke different kinds of meats. He was a member of Audubon County Conservation Club, NRA, and the Elliott-Keninger Legion Post in Ackley, Iowa.

     Tom’s life revolved around his family, his work, and nature. He was a very honest and dependable person and he will be remembered mostly as someone who always made those around him better. Tom had an unwavering ability to show he cared about others. His coworkers throughout the company knew Tom by his personality and positive attitude.

     Tom died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 7, 2007, having attained the age of fifty-nine years, five months, and five days. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Anna Boelman, and his sister, Mary Ann DeBoer.

     Tom is survived by his wife of thirty-six years, Christine Boelman of Harlan, Iowa; his daughter, Nicole and her husband Vance Arnold and their son Eli of Harlan; his son Ryan Boelman of Fremont, Nebraska, and his close special friend Mary Becker of Omaha, Nebraska, other family members, and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 2:00 PM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa with Pastor Heather Ploen and Pastor Steve Chellew. Serving as casket bearers were Wesley Poley, John Knipfel, Jeff Bottjen, Rick Henry and Mark Bazis. Military Grave side Rites were held by the Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150, Ackley American Legion Post No. 252 and the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941. Interment was held in the Harlan Cemetery, Harlan, Iowa.

Estella "Stella" Boettger - Age 101
     Estella Josephine Petsche, the daughter of John and Elizabeth Jacoby Petsche was born April 17, 1909, on a farm south of Westphalia, Iowa; one of ten children. She was baptized and confirmed at St Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia. She attended Lincoln Township Country School, St. Boniface Catholic School and grew to adulthood on the family farm. When she was eight she had her appendix removed by the doctor on the dining room table at the farm. After finishing school, she worked at a coffee shop in Harlan.
     She was united in marriage to William (Bill) Boettger on September 15, 1937 at St. Michael’s Parsonage in Harlan, Iowa. After their marriage, Bill and Estella made their home on a farm west of Harlan. Estella always had a large garden where the products of her labor could be seen in her fruit cellar. She stored canned fruits and vegetable and made her own V-8 juice. She also raised chickens as well as Tuber Roses. Other pastimes she enjoyed were tatting, embroidering, and crocheting.
     Traveling was also an important pastime for Bill and Estella. They traveled to most of the United States and went to three Rose Bowl Games. When Bill retired from farming in 1970, they continued to make their home on the farm.
     After Bill’s death on August 12, 1990, Estella continued to reside on the farm and raised her garden until 2007. In January of 2008, Estella became a resident of Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan where she died on July 30, 2010 at the age of one hundred one years, three months and thirteen days.
     In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings: George, Tony, Leo, Frank, John, Agnes Chamberlain, Cecelia Schwery, and Mike. Stella is survived by her brother Lawrence Petsche and his wife Helen and her sister-in-law Helen Petsche all of Harlan; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Msgr. Bob Chamberlain celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, August 3, 2010, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Al Chamberlain, Andrew Boettger, Bill Boettger, Mark Schwery, George Petsche, and Neil Petsche. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Jack B. Bornholdt - Age 82

     Jack Burton Bornholdt was born on January 25, 1927, to Elmer and Ella (Tiessen) Bornholdt in Avoca, Iowa. He was baptized through the Avoca Presbyterian Church. He attended school in Avoca where he later graduated from high school with the class of 1945.

     After high school Jack entered the United States Army where he served his country during World War II. After his honorable discharge, Jack attended Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa were he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture in Farm Operations. He was an instructor at the G.I. School in Avoca where he taught Farm Operations during the early 1950’s.

     On December 6, 1953, Jack was united in marriage to Elizabeth Bombeck at the Presbyterian Church in Avoca. Three daughters were born to this union: Beth, Vanessa and Shelley.

     Through the years, Jack worked as tax accountant and postal carrier, and he spent his entire life farming. He had many accomplishments in his lifetime, one in particular being the second place national architecture award he received for a livestock shelter design from the Farm Journal magazine.

     Jack enjoyed playing music in his own Dixie Land Band, the "Noteworthies." He also played trombone in an Omaha Big Band, and was a lifetime member of the Fred Funston Post No. 227 American Legion Post of Avoca. Jack served on the East Pottawattamie County Fair Board and on the Pottawattamie County School Board.

     After retirement, Jack continued to reside on the Avoca family farm until he moved to the Avoca Lodge Assisted Living in November of 2005. He was admitted to the Avoca Nursing Home and Rehab Center on February 20, 2008, and it was there that he died on Thursday, July 2, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-two years, five months, and seven days. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ella, and his brother, Robert.

     He is survived by his three daughters: Beth Bornholdt of Avoca, Iowa; Vanessa and her husband Roger Heilig of Shelby, Iowa; Shelley and her husband Joel Ross of Acworth, Georgia; two grandsons: Benjamin Heilig and Conrad Heilig of Shelby, Iowa and his sister-in-law Elizabeth Bornholdt of Portland, Oregon; other family members and many friends.

     Pastor Brian Wohlhuter conducted the private graveside service at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa. Military honors were provided by the Avoca American Legion Post No. 227.

 

Richard J. Brammann, Jr. - Age 57

     Richard Joseph Brammann, Jr. was born on August 14, 1951, to Richard and Yvon (McFerran) Brammann. He was baptized at the Avoca Lutheran Church and confirmed at the Shelby Lutheran Church. He attended school at the Shelby-Tennant High School and graduated with the Class of 1970.

     He entered the United State Marine Corps on August 30, 1971 and was stationed in Japan before being honorably discharged from the service on August 29, 1975 in Yuma, Arizona. He worked as an Operations Manager while serving his country.

     Richard worked at Wings of America Truck Plaza in Avoca, Iowa but most recently worked for the City of Avoca as a maintenance person. In the summers, he could be found weed-eating up to seventy hours a week! He was a hard worker and enjoyed all his jobs.

     He enjoyed the outdoors and would spend his free time, fishing, hunting, or trapping.

     Richard died on Friday, January 23, 2009, having attained the age of fifty-seven years, five months, and nine days. He was preceded in death by his parents.

     He is survived by his four children: Trista Brammann of New Bloomfield, Missouri, Shane Brammann of Columbia, Missouri, Christopher Brammann of Mound City, Missouri and Malinda Brammann of Portland, Missouri; his grandchildren: Nichole, Kalab, Noah, and Kaliey Brammann, Cheyenne Salmons and Marshall Davis; his brothers and sisters: Diana Knuth of Woodward, Iowa, Rodney Brammann of Omaha, Nebraska, Garth Brammann of Harlan, Iowa, David Brammann also of Harlan, and George Martens and his wife Debra of Shelby, Iowa; other family members and friends.

     A funeral service was held on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Dennis Reich officiating the 2:00 PM service. Honorary casket bearers were Denny Akers, Pete Brammann, Gary Madden, Justin Bomer, Gene Butcher, and Josh Bomer. Serving as casket bearers were Mike Petersen, Farrell Zimmerman, Charlie Bird, John Butcher, Dan Dea, and Rich Price. Military Rites were held in the Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa.

Violet L. Brehmer - Age 97

     Violet Leona Brehmer was born on July 6, 1915 to Hans and Anna (Larsen) Hansen on a farm near Brayton, Iowa. She attended country school through elementary years and then went to Oakfield Academy near Brayton, Iowa.

     She worked as a hired girl for many families before being united in marriage to Lester Brehmer on September 3, 1939 in the Walnut Peace Church parsonage. Two sons were born to this union: Delbert and Gerald. Lester and Violet rented farms in Shelby and Pottawattamie Counties before buying farms in those counties.

     They took many trips together including flying to Morocco with friends. They also took many bus trips. Violet and Lester were avid dancers and enjoyed dancing and socializing with many friends throughout Southwest Iowa.

     Violet loved to quilt and knit. She was active in several card clubs around the Walnut area as well as active in the Church Women’s Fellowship, Bible study, Altar Guild, and the church quilting group.

     After Lester moved into the nursing home in 2001, Violet continued to be a dedicated caregiver as she drove to Atlantic daily. She continued her loving care by sitting, reading, and assisting him daily while keeping him comfortable.

     Violet moved to Peace Haven in July of 2003. She took part in many of the social activities while there and was extremely proud of being a member of the 90's club.

     Due to a massive stroke, Violet died on Monday, January 25, 2010 at the Risen Son Christian Village in Council Bluffs, Iowa, while on Hospice care after hip surgery. She attained the age of ninety-four years, six months, and nineteen days. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Lester, her son Gerald, and her three brothers and one sister.

     She is survived by her son Delbert Brehmer and his wife Judy of Council Bluffs, Iowa; grandsons Jay Brehmer and his wife Carol of Overland Park, Kansas and Jeff Brehmer and his wife Suzi of Carter Lake, Iowa; five great-grandchildren with another one to arrive shortly; other family members and friends.

     Pastor Gail Muckey officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Friday, January 29, 2010, at the Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Justin Brehmer, Jordan Ashley Brehmer, Grant Brehmer, Bailey Shaw, and Jordan Michael Shaw. Serving as casket bearers were Jeffrey Brehmer, Jay Brehmer, Don Jensen, Mel Gross, Jerry Hansen, and Larry Kay. Interment was held at the Layton Township Cemetery in Walnut, Iowa.

Lucille Rasmussen Briggs - Age 96

     Lucille Rasmussen Briggs was born on July 22, 1913, in Shelby, Iowa, to John and Nellie (McKeighan) Mowery. She was baptized in the Methodist Church and remained a lifelong member. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Ocheyedan, Iowa. They moved back to Shelby to farm after Lucille had completed the eighth grade. Lucille worked for several homes in the Shelby and Omaha areas as a nanny and housekeeper.

     She was married to Thomas Rasmussen on September 26, 1937, in Harlan, Iowa. They had one daughter, Karen, and made their home on different farms near Harlan, Shelby, and Minden. Lucille cooked at the Leader’s Café and the Minden Bowling Alley.

     On July, 22, 1979, she was united in marriage to Albert Briggs at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. They made their home in Harlan, Iowa. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Harlan.

     Lucille remained in Harlan after Albert’s death in 1990. Due to her failing eyesight, she became a resident of Woodlands Rehabilitation Center in Council Bluffs in 2001, and it was there that she died on Wednesday, December 9, 2009, having attained the age of ninety-six years, four months, and seventeen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, brothers Lyle and Warren, and sister Elva.

     She is survived by her daughter Karen and her husband David Coenen of Council Bluffs, Iowa, grandson Russell Sorbello of Omaha, Nebraska, sister Wilma and her husband Hugh Mortensen of Waterloo, Iowa; other family members and friends.

     Dr. Rev. David G. Swinton officiated the 2:30 PM funeral service on Saturday, December 12, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa. Interment was held at the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa.

Ruby M. Brown - Age 98

     Ruby May Brown, the daughter of George and Blanche Hill Eble, was born on April 25, 1909 in Norfolk, Nebraska. She attended grade school in Hubbard, Nebraska and in 1921 the family moved to Shelby where she graduated with the class of 1927. After graduation she attended one year of junior college in Muckegon, Michigan, returning to Shelby in 1930 when her father died.

     Ruby worked as a seamstress and a relief operator at the telephone office for several years, becoming Chief Operator in 1938 and worked until the dial system came into effect in 1958. She worked for just over a year as chief operator in Avoca until Avoca became dial.

     In 1958, Ruby was united in marriage to Lawrence Brown, who owned the Shelby Electric Service. They acted as the collection agency for a while for the telephone company. In 1965 she was hired as a substitute clerk at the Post Office and remained there until 1988.

     Ruby was a Cub Scout Den leader for over twenty-two years; was a member of the Shelby Methodist Church where she once served as the Financial Secretary and also as a Sunday school teacher. She also was a life member of the Eastern Star and the Gideon Auxiliary for Shelby and Harrison Counties.

     Ruby died at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca on Monday, January 21, 2008 having attained the age of ninety-eight years, eight months and twenty-seven days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lawrence, brothers and sister: George Jr, Kenneth and Bernice Thurber.

     Survivors include her four sisters: Margaret Sterling and Grace Beck, both of Omaha, Nebraska; Mary Owings of Ames, Iowa and Jessie Brees of Florence, Arizona; one brother, Charles Eble of Iowa City, Iowa; besides many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Andrew N. Bruck - Age 88

     Andrew "Andy" Nicholas Bruck, son of Fred and Cecelia (Funk) Bruck, was born on January 3, 1921, in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa and attended school at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling.

     On May 8, 1945, Andy was united in marriage to Margaret Clair Malone at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. Six children were born to this union: Joann, Ken, John, Tom, Andrew and Kevin. After their wedding, Andy and Margaret made their home on the Bruck family farm outside of Earling. They spent their time raising their children and working on the farm the good old fashioned way- doing hard work by hand. Margaret died on April 25, 1978.

     On September 14, 1979, Andy was united in marriage to Mildred Theresa (Schneider) Bruck at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. After their wedding, Andy and Mildred made their home in Earling. They enjoyed traveling together and visiting friends.

     Andy was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the Church Council, and the Knights of Columbus, Earling Council No. 1741 of Earling, Iowa. He also enjoyed dancing and playing cards with family and friends.

     Andy died on Monday, July 27, 2009, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-eight years, six months, and twenty-four days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Margaret; his second wife Mildred; his son Andrew; his brother Tony Bruck and his sister Mary Smith.

     He is survived by his children: Joann and her husband Eldon McCuen of Audubon, Iowa; Ken Bruck and his wife Linda of Harlan; John Bruck and his wife Janie of Earling; Tom Bruck and his wife Rose of Avoca, Iowa; Kevin Bruck and his special friend Colette Hess of Earling; nineteen grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, July 30, 2009, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, with Rev. Tom Coenen, Rev. Michael Berner and Rev. John Frost concelebrating the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling with Staci Bruck, Jenny Sonderman, Kathy Inman, Christy Heller, Angie Zimmerman, Katie Malloy, Annette Hacker, Amy Hoffmann, Missy Windhorst, and Jessica Bruck acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Luke Bruck, Brian McCuen, Chad Bruck, David Bruck, Dustin Bruck, Pat McCuen, Troy Bruck, Todd Bruck, and Jeff Bruck.

Lavern "Shorty" Bruck - Age 89

     Lavern J. "Shorty" Bruck was born on September 13, 1918, to Charles and Margaret (Blum) Bruck in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized, confirmed, and made his communion at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. He attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling before helping his father on the farm. Lavern also worked as a hired hand for various area farmers until he enlisted in the United States Army.

     During his time in the military, Shorty served as a cook in the southwest Pacific, Australia, and the Phillipines with the 911^th Signal Company. After forty-two months overseas, he received his honorable discharge from the service and returned to marry the girl he had met at church during Lent right before he left for the service. Shorty and Betty Nollen were married on February 11, 1946, and had four children: Janet, Mary, Bruce, and Jill.

     After returning home, Shorty began to farm for himself beginning in Earling, then Defiance, and finally moving to the farm in Irwin where he farmed for thirty-eight years. After his retirement, Shorty and Betty lived on the farm another fourteen years until selling it in August of 2007, and moving to Manning, Iowa.

     Shorty was a family man, taking pride in his children and grandchildren. He especially loved being in his wife’s company and rarely missed an opportunity to take her dancing. He belonged to the Farm Bureau and was active with their activities.

     He was admitted to the Manning Regional Healthcare Center and it was there that he died on April 2, 2008, having attained the age of eighty-nine years, six months, and twenty days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Leonard Bruck, Alfred Bruck, and Richard Bruck, and one grandson, Robert Handlos.

     Shorty is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Betty Bruck of Manning, Iowa; his children: Janet and her husband Gerald Handlos of Georgetown, Texas, Mary and her husband Tom Gaskill of Tucson, Arizona, Bruce Bruck and his wife Donna of Bloomington, Minnesota, and Jill and her husband Gary Sebern of Denison, Iowa; ten grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; his brother Gerald Bruck and his wife Velma of Earling, Iowa; his sister Mary Ann Schwery of Panama, Iowa; nieces and nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, with Rev. Tom Coenen celebrating the 11:00 AM service at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Honorary casket bearer was Jim Handlos. Serving as casket bearers were Chris Handlos, Reggie Graeve, Jason Gaskill, Jessie Sebern, Bailey Bruck, Bryce Bruck, Scott Gaskill, and Beth Upton. Military Rites were held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa by the Defiance and Westphalia Post No. 707.

Marcus Bruck - Age 84

     Marcus John Bruck, son of William and Clara (Windeshausen) Bruck, was born on June 22, 1923 in Portsmouth, Iowa and was the sixth of nine children. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Our Lady Fatima in Portsmouth and attended school in Tennant and Harlan. After school, he worked for area farmers. On September 4, 1942, he joined the United States Navy as an apprentice seaman and trained at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station in Great Lakes, Illinois. He served on the USS Retort and the USS Upshur before being honorably discharged on September 26, 1945.

     On August 26, 1944, Marcus was united in marriage to Helen Magdalene Graf at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk, Virginia. Six children were born to this union: William, Jan, Mary, Bruce, Craig, and Kevin.

     After Mark was discharged from the Navy, he and Helen made their home in Harlan until 1945 when they moved to Portsmouth and started farming and raising their children.

     When Marcus was not busy in the fields, he enjoyed playing cards with his friends and family and visiting with his neighbors. He was also an active member of the American Legion Post No. 547 in Portsmouth.

     Marcus died on Monday, January 7, 2008, at Rose Vista Homes in Woodbine, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-four years, six months, and sixteen days. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one foster child, Rita Neeple; his brothers: Joe, Mike, Nick, and Neil and his sister Rita.

     He is survived by his wife Helen and their children: William (Bill) and his wife Darlene of Portsmouth; Jan Lasher of Harlan; Mary and her husband Darwin Gessert of Harlan; Bruce and his wife Karen of Portsmouth; Craig and his wife Tina of Persia; and Kevin and his wife Jodi of Charter Oak, Iowa; one foster child Theresa and her husband Bob Schroeder of Carroll, Iowa; fourteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; his brother Bill and his wife Millie of LaMotte, Iowa; two sisters: Helen Langenfeld of Spencer, Iowa; and Clara and her husband Richard Carroll of Harlan; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many, many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, January 11, 2008, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Rev. John Dorton was the celebrant and Rev. Don Bruck the concelebrant of the 10:30 AM funeral. Serving as casket bearers were Tyler Bruck, Marcus Bruck, Jr., Brent Bruck, B. J. Bruck, Ryan Gessert, Todd Bruck, Brian Lasher, and Jamie Lasher. Military Rites were held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth by the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941 and the Portsmouth American Legion Post No. 547.

Nicholas "Nick" Bruck - Age 91

     Nicholas Anthony Bruck, son of William and Clara (Windehausen) Bruck was born October 2, 1916, in Earling, Iowa. He was the second of nine children, and was baptized at St. Joseph Church in Earling. At the age of three he moved with his family to a farm northeast of Portsmouth. He received his First Holy Communion and was confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth. He attended Country School and then St. Mary’s Catholic School in Portsmouth.

     After school he worked on area farms and then was employed for awhile with the Civilian Conservation Corp in Moorhead, Iowa.

     On March 6, 1936, he joined the U.S. Navy and trained at the Great Lakes Naval Training Stations in Great Lakes, Illinois. He was then sent to the Pacific Fleet for duty, serving on the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Lexington for two years. In 1938 he went to Submarine School in New London, Connecticut, then served on Submarines U.S.S. Narwall and U.S.S. Nautilus for eight years.

     On December 31, 1940, he married Alma Arkfeld at St. Patrick’s Church in Honolulu, Hawaii. On March 9, 1946, after serving ten years, he received an honorable discharge from the Navy. He and Alma returned to Portsmouth and started farming and raising children. Nine children were born to this union: Nick, Ronald, Joyce, Robert, Richard, Joan, Jolene, Janet, and Randy.

     Nick died on December 28, 2007, at the Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-one years, two months, and twenty-six days. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife Alma, daughter Joyce, brothers Joe and Mike, and sister Rita.

     He is survived by his children: Nick, Jr. and his wife Linda of Bettendorf, Iowa; Ronald Bruck and his friend Terri Fraser of Lincoln, Nebraska; Robert and his wife Linda of Black Earth, Wisconsin; son-in-law, Jim Larsen of Newton, Iowa; Richard and his wife Laurie of Albion, Nebraska; Joan and her husband Steve Ingram of Gretna, Nebraska; Jolene and her husband Todd Roecker of Atlantic, Iowa; Janet and her husband Rick Guse of Omaha, Nebraska; and Randy and his wife Julie of Portsmouth, Iowa; twenty-six grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren; brothers: Neil and his wife Amelia of Dubuque, Iowa; Mark and his wife Helen of Portsmouth, Iowa; and Bill and his wife Millie of LaMotte, Iowa; sisters: Helen Langenfeld of Spencer, Iowa and Clara and her husband Richard Carroll of Harlan, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Father John Dorton officiated the 10:30 AM service with interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth. Serving as casket bearers were Nick Bruck, Jr., Benjamin Bruck, Robert Bruck, Ronald Bruck, Richard Bruck, and Randy Bruck.

Velma A. Bruck - Age 83

     Velma Arlene Buschkamp Bruck was born on February 27, 1927, to Gerhard and Louise (Hendrix) Buschkamp on the family farm near Bloomfield, Nebraska. Velma was baptized and confirmed in Bloomfield and graduated from Bloomfield high school with the class of 1945. After high school, Velma received her Teaching Certificate and taught country school for three years. She then attended Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska, where she studied pre-med and renewed her teaching certificate. She returned to teaching for three months. At this time, Velma met Gerald Bruck.

     Velma was united in marriage to Gerald on September 7, 1948, in Bloomfield, Nebraska. After they were united in marriage, Velma and Gerald moved to Earling, Iowa, to begin their life together. To this union they had seven living children: Jody, Gerald Jr., Colleen, Michelle, Vernon, Robin, and Karen.

     Velma enjoyed helping Gerald on the farming by doing anything and everything. She loved the country life of milking cows and raising hogs and chickens. She also enjoyed having a huge garden and canning everything she could. Velma was a member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, her entire married life. She enjoyed being a Eucharistic Minister and did so for twenty-five years.

     Velma’s favorite activities were to go to the Spencer Fair every year, riding in the car while it was raining, playing bingo, and listening to old time country music. Her favorite time of the year was spring and she loved Easter. Velma’s most precious memories were spending time with her family and friends. She will be missed greatly by all.

     Velma died on Friday, June 4, 2010, at Little Flower Haven in Earling, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-three years, three months, and eight days. She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughters, Karen Hill and Michelle Slater; her brothers, Darrell and Donald; and her sister, Alice.

     She is survived by her husband of sixty years, Gerald Bruck, of Earling, Iowa; their children: Jody Bruck of Harlan, Iowa; Jerry Bruck, Jr. and his wife Aline of Harlan, Iowa; Colleen Spinler of Clarinda, Iowa; Vernon Bruck and his wife Patricia of Denison, Iowa; Robin Bruck of Denison, Iowa; nineteen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; her brother, Dennis Buschkamp and his wife Loraine of Bloomfield, Nebraska; her twin brother, Vernon Buschkamp of Earling, Iowa; her sister, Fern Schafer of Yankton, South Dakota; many nieces and nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 7, 2010, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Rev. Michael Berner officiated the 10:30 AM service. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, with Dale Schafer, Mark Buschkamp, Bill Schwery, Roger Bruck, Alan Buschkamp, and Rick Bruck serving as casket bearers.

Lorene M. Brue - Age 83

     Lorene Brue was born on October 27, 1923, to Henry and Hattie (Schweiso) Steckelberg in Irwin, Iowa. She attended the Walnut Community Schools. After graduation, she continued her education for two years at the Grand Island Business College in Grand Island, Nebraska.

     After completing business school, Lorene went to work for the Department of the Navy in Washington, DC.

     In February of 1944, she was united in marriage to Dean Henry. Three daughters were born to this union: Vivian, Diane, and Roxie. Lorene stayed at home and raised her family and helped her husband on the farm.

     After moving the family back to the Midwest, Lorene worked in the banks in Denison and Irwin. She moved to Ida Grove and worked at the Farmers Home Administration (FHA).

     She was married to Carl LaVern Brue on August 23, 1975, in Irwin, Iowa, and moved to Irwin to make their home. She transferred to the FHA office in Harlan and retired from that office.

     Lorene was a fifty-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star and a life-long member of the Irwin Methodist Church.

     Lorene moved into the Manilla Manor in August of 2002 and it was there that she died on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-three years, seven months, and nine days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband LaVern, and her brother Bobbie Steckelberg.

     She is survived by her three daughters: Vivian Arnold of Harlan, Iowa, Diane and her husband Wally Lenczowski of Omaha, Nebraska, and Roxie and her husband Frank Miranda of Las Vegas, Nevada; nine grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; her sister Viola and her husband Lester Hass of Harlan; and her brother Lester Steckelberg and his wife Norma of Greenfield, Iowa; sister-in-law Alice Steckelberg of Harlan; nieces; nephews; other family members, and friends.

     Funeral services for Lorene Brue were held on Saturday, June 9, 2007, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Rev. Keith Pals officiated the 1:30 PM service. Serving as casket bearers were Lynn Arnold, Todd Lenczowski, Vance Arnold, Mike Arnold, Steve Barratt, and Paul Arnold. Interment was at Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa.

Anthony Brungardt - Age 29

     I was born in Norfolk, NE, and right from the start I was a "cuddler". I loved to be held and rocked. And being the first boy born on my mom's side of the family, there were lots of people wanting to spoil me. Of course they all said that I was the cutest, most handsome baby anyone had ever seen!

     When I was little, I had all kinds of problems. I spent a lot of time in the hospital, mostly because I had seizures all the time. I out grew that when I was about 9 and was I ever glad about that! Sometimes when I was in the hospital, my granny would come and stay with me. She would keep playing my Teddy Ruxpin tapes for me all night when I couldn't sleep. She never did seem to get sleepy either!

     I got to start school at a very early age, and had lots of friends in my class. I liked most of my teachers too, but the best part was that I got to ride on the school bus with my sister Gwen.....I loved that! They even figured out a way for me to ride the bus when I had my broken leg. I was about 15 then, and let me tell you, that was a real bummer. When the doctor finally took off that darn body cast, my legs decided to curl up and not go straight anymore. Mom kept hauling me to physical therapy sessions until I could finally stand on my own two feet again. I learned to get around pretty good as long as someone would hold my hand so I didn't fall down.

     When I was 21 and didn't go to school anymore, I got to go live at a place called REM in Shelby, IA. Being a Nebraska kid at heart, I wasn't so sure that was gonna be such a good idea, but you know what? I loved it there from the very first day. I made some really good friends, and we were all just one big happy family. I got to go to work everyday at the workshop there, and make neat things like candles and trash bags, and all sorts of cool things out of wood. My mom bought at least one of just about everything we ever made.

     Last summer for my birthday, I had a real treat. Mom took me to my Aunt Annie's house and I got to swim in her pool....for 3 whole days!!! I decided to put that picture on this card so you could see how "cool" I looked at my party. I got to do all kinds of fun things when I went on outings with my mom and dad. I was one lucky guy!

     I am the youngest grandchild in the Brungardt family, but I got to go to Heaven before many of the older ones. I figure that's a pretty good deal, even though I know my mom and dad will cry like they did when my sisters Katie and Gwen went to Heaven. I was the only kid they had left, but I'll ask God to send some special angels down to take care of them, so I know they'll be all right.

     I won't need my braces, or my walker, or my wheelchair when I meet Jesus for the first time. I won't need anyone holding my hand to keep me from falling. I'll just run right up to Him and give Him a great big hug! I like hugs! Everybody should have lots of hugs every day! When it's your turn to go to Heaven, I'll be here waiting for you! Love, Tony

Nicholas L. Buboltz - Age 22

     Nicholas Lee Buboltz was born on July 15, 1987, to Don and Amy (Lillard) Buboltz in Harlan, Iowa. He attended school in Avoca, Iowa, Omaha, Nebraska, Valley, Nebraska and Neola, Iowa.

     Nick graduated from the Tri-Center Schools in 2006 and went on to join the Steamfitters and Plumbers Local Union 464. Out of approximately 200 applicants, he was the only person accepted into the apprenticeship program directly out of high school. Upon his death, Nick had completed nearly four of the five year apprenticeship. Nick was exceptionally accomplished for such a young man on many levels. He purchased his own home when he was only twenty years old. He always took pride in earning his own way and doing things for himself.

     Nick was especially close to his family and friends; never passing up an opportunity to visit, play cards or share stories. He was extremely loyal and loving to his friends always willing to share a hug or a smile. Likewise, he never hesitated to defend his friends or his family and he was particularly protective of his little brother, Ross.

     Nick’s interests also included water skiing, horseback riding, gardening and ice hockey. He enjoyed trips with his family on horseback through the Continental Divide, white water rafting and trips to see friends in California.

     In high school, Nick was an accomplished horseman and earned his money training horses for others. He also enjoyed working for Randy Pauley building homes.

     Nick died as a result of a tragic accident on Saturday, February 20, 2010, having attained the age of twenty-two years, seven months, and five days. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Larry Buboltz and Thomas S. Lillard III.

     He is survived by his parents Don and Amy Buboltz of Shelby, Iowa, his brother Ross Buboltz of Shelby, grandparents Judy and Ron Ring of Neola and Donna Farrell and her husband Vern Ensminger of Shelby. He is also survived by Aunts Leslie Peters of Shelby, Leanne Travis of Harlan, Beth Buboltz of Shelby; Uncles Brian Buboltz of Shelby, Marvin Travis of Harlan and Scott Peters of Avoca and many other beloved family and friends.

     Pastor Dennis Reich conducted the 10:30 AM funeral service at Trinity Lutheran Church on Wednesday, February 24, 2010. Honorary casket bearers were Nick’s cousins: Brock Travis, Malory Peters, Courtney Travis, Sam Peters, and Brian Buboltz. Serving as casket bearers were Jeffrey Tiffin, Sr., Jacob Clevenger, John Clevenger, Ross Buboltz, Alex Patterson, and Jim Edwards. Interment was held at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa.

Kathy A. Buck - Age 49

     Kathy Ann Buck, the daughter of Wayne and Ruth(Wetherell) McArtor, was born on January 10, 1958 in Sigourney, Iowa. She attended school at English Valley School in North English, Iowa.

     After high school, Kathy worked as a waitress at the Middle America Truck Stop café in Williamsburg. Kathy was united in marriage to Robert Buck, Jr. On April 7, 1979, at the Shelby Presbyterian Church and together they raised their son, Chad. It was after their marriage that Kathy attended beauty school in Council Bluffs, Iowa. After finishing beauty school, Kathy opened and operated a salon out of their home, Kathy’s Styling Post. After closing her shop, she went to work at the Cornstalk Restaurant in Shelby. She then went to work at REM Lead-Way and later returned to the work she enjoyed at the Cornstalk, eventually working there for over twenty years. In 2006, Kathy moved to Waukee, Iowa.

     Kathy died on Friday, April 27, 2007, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. She had attained the age of forty-nine years, three months, and seventeen days. She is preceded in death by her father.

     Survivors include her son Chad Dennler of Avoca, Iowa; her grandson Brendyn Conn of Avoca, her mother, Ruth McArtor of North English, Iowa; her step-son Jeff Buck of Washington, DC; three brothers: Larry McArtor and his wife Coleen of Fairfield, Iowa, Richard McArtor of North English, and Chuck McArtor of West Liberty, Iowa; her boyfriend Jim Shaffer of Waukee, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members, and numerous friends.

 

Phyllis Burger - Age 82

     Phyllis Lorraine Burger was born on September 17, 1924, the only child of Wallace and Margaret (Smith) Jacobs of Harlan, Iowa. She graduated from the Harlan School District.

     She was united in marriage to Vern Stendrup. Two children were born to this union: her son Jerry and daughter Debbie. They lived near Walnut for a while before moving to the Harlan area.

     On February 3, 1968, Phyllis was married to Leon Burger of Harlan, Iowa, and became the step-mother to Bob, Debbie, Tim, Jim, Candy, and Cindi.

     Phyllis worked at the Baptist Retirement Home in Harlan, now called Elm Crest Retirement Home, for several years and then worked at Variety Distributing, retiring in August of 2005. She also volunteered her time at West Central Development Corporation in Harlan.

     One of Phyllis’s hobbies was camping with Leon. She was a great cook and enjoyed having family get togethers. She also greatly enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

     She remained a resident of Harlan until moving to the Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn in 2006. It was there that she died on August 15, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-two years, ten months, and twenty-nine days. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Leon.

     Phyllis is survived by her children: Jerry Stendrup and his wife Debbie of Harlan, Iowa and Debbie and her husband Mike Miller of Prescott, Iowa; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her step-children: Bob Burger and wife Regina of Papillion, Nebraska, Debbie and her husband Carl Schadt of Waterloo, Iowa, Tim Burger and his wife Laurel of Harlan, Jim Burger and his wife Kim of Crescent, Iowa, Candy Bruck of Harlan, and Cindi Boeck of Harlan; other family members, and friends.

     A funeral service was held on Monday, August 20, 2007, with Rev. Donna Ewert officiating the 10:00 AM service at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Honorary casket bearer was Max Bacon. Casket bearers were Rob Mackey, Kelly Fairchild, Jason Burger, Craig Crilly, Jerrad Popp, and Jeff Nelson with interment held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Ruth K. Bussow - Age 93

     Ruth Kathryn Bussow was born on February 4, 1916, to Rudolph and Ora (Anthony) Klindt in Center Township in Shelby County, Iowa. She attended country schools at Monroe Township in Shelby County and Adair County before graduating from Walnut High School in Walnut, Iowa, with the Class of 1933. Ruth received her teaching certificate and taught at Jackson Township Schools #1, #4, and #5.

     On June 16, 1940, she was united in marriage to Melvin "Pete" Bussow in Walnut, Iowa. Two children were born to this union: Carol and Larry.

     Ruth worked at Baker’s Supermarket in Harlan, Iowa, while Pete was in the military. In 1944, she joined him in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and worked at a bakery there. She stayed home with the children while they were in school. After Pete’s death, she operated the family grocery business, worked as a cook at the Colonial Motor Inn, and as a desk clerk at the Super 8 motel.

     Ruth was active in the Amvet Auxiliary, the American Legion Auxiliary, Women’s Fellowship, Music Parents, and served as a 4-H leader.

     She was a history buff and put together many scrapbooks, especially of World War II. She liked to listen to baseball games, sew, do embroidery, and different arts and crafts projects. She also enjoyed bingo and the social activities at the nursing home.

     Ruth died on Wednesday, January 20, 2010, at the Atlantic Nursing and Rehab Center in Atlantic, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-three years, eleven months, and sixteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brothers Glenn and Gaylord.

     She is survived by her son Larry Bussow and his wife Audrey of Hendersonville, Tennessee; her daughter Carol and her husband John Humphrey of Walnut, Iowa; two grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

     Pastor Gail Muckey officiated at the private graveside service held on Monday, January 25, 2010 at 9:30 AM. Interment was at the Layton Township Cemetery in Walnut, Iowa.

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