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Pauley Jones

P.O. Box 70

1304 9th Street

Harlan, Iowa 51537-0070

(712) 755-3135
(800) 831-6805

 
 

Proudly Serving Southwest Iowa with locations in Harlan, Walnut and Avoca

 


Link to Past Obituaries

Pauley Jones Funeral Homes

"Avoca Chapel"

 

 

 

Donald Ray Davis - Age 78

     Donald Ray Davis "Don" was born on December 28, 1927, to Howard and Bessie (Benson) Davis of Kanawha, Iowa. He was baptized at the Chapin Methodist Church and attended school in Kanawha. After his schooling, he spent two years on active duty in the United States Navy and continued in the Naval Reserves for an additional four years. He obtained his honorable discharge on December 12, 1952.

     After his discharge from the service, he was a milk hauler for 18 years with the Hampton Creamery, Belmond Dairy and later at the Harlan Creamery, as well as working as a manager at the Wells Blue Bunny plant. Don and Arlene started D & A Laundry in 1978 until their retirement in 1994. Even after his retirement, he continued to be hard-working, becoming a part-time employee with his daughter, Barb, at Touch of Class in Harlan.

     He was united in marriage on December 22, 1950 to Arlene Slining of Belmond, Iowa. Seven children were born to this union: Dixie, Barb, Jerry, John, Sandy, Debbie, and Jeff.

He had many hobbies and interests but his favorites were Nascar, garage sales, traveling, and camping. He also enjoyed music and the many trips out West, but most of all, he enjoyed the special times with his wife and family, whether it be Sunday breakfasts, playing cards, or a friendly surprise visit to his children.

     Don Davis was admitted to Myrtue Medical Center on November 10th and passed away at the facility on Monday, November 13, 2006. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-two years, Arlene, four infant brothers, his sister Marge, one grandson, Justin, and one son-in-law, Bruce Markkula.

     Don is survived by seven children: Dixie (Sonny) Goans, Kirkman, Barb (Kim) Swanson, Harlan, Jerry (Leah) Davis, Harlan, John (Judy) Davis, Harlan, Sandy Markkula, Harlan, Debbie Davis, McPherson, Kansas, and Jeff Davis, Creston, Iowa, sixteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, one brother Bob (Carol) Davis in Arizona, three sisters: Hilda Nolte, Stewartville, Minnesota, Darlene Little, Hampton, Iowa, and Janis Sorensen of Harlan, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many, many friends.

      Funeral Services were held on Thursday, November 16, 2006 at 11:00 at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa with Rev. Al Hazelton serving as the clergy. Honorary casket bearers were Gene Nielsen, Billy Scheffler, Jim Elder, Richard Carl and Omer Scheffler with Joey Petsche, Brad McQueen, Mike Wohlhutter, Roger Christensen, Chris Goans and James Boardman as casket bearers. Military Rites were done by the Shelby County VFW Post No. 841, the Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150. Interment was in the Harlan Cemetery, Harlan, Iowa.

 

 

Lela R. Davis - Age 94

     Lela Rebecca Davis, the daughter of Anna Salmon and Paris Seely Balcom, was born on March 10, 1911 in Belleville, Kansas.  She attended school and grew into adulthood in Moran, Kansas.  After completing her education, Lela helped her parents operate a hotel in Weeping Water, Nebraska, earning as little as fifty cents a day.

     She then accepted a housekeeping job for Alvin Davis near Persia, Iowa. She later was united in marriage to Mr. Davis on June18,1932 in Rockport, Missouri. They spent most of their married lives on this farm that Alvin was born on. Alvin died on May 2, 1992 and Lela remained on that farm until moving to Elm Crest Retirement Community in . Lela was a member of the Tennant United Methodist Church, the Women's Federated Club and the Pioneer Club. She was a district officer for United Methodist Women. Lela was active as a 4-H leader and as a county extension committee member. She was also a talented seamstress, making many of her own clothes, made ceramics and often baked cakes and pies for other people. She was also involved with a neighborhood group that played Canasta every Saturday night. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and the many visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

     Lela died on Friday, March 3, 2006 at Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa having attained the age of ninety-four years, eleven months and twenty-three days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Alvin, five brothers and one sister: Delores Curtis, Riley, Glen, Merle, George and Charles Balcom.

     Lela is survived by her step-daughter, Dorothy Hall of Shelby, Iowa; five grandchildren: Beverly and her husband Rich Goshorn; Dixie and her husband Robert Nihsen; Danny Hall and his wife Linda; Barbara and her husband Randy Lund, all of Shelby and Steven Hall and his wife Amy of Ames, Iowa; twenty great grandchildren and Great- great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

 

 

Philip West Dennis - Age 88

    Philip West Dennis, the son of Lloyd and Rose (West) Dennis, was born on September 18, 1917, at Coleridge, Nebraska. He attended grade school and high school at Coleridge, Nebraska. Philip then attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Nebraska, where he graduated in 1939 with a Science of Agriculture and Teaching degree.

On December 25, 1940, Philip was united in marriage to Margaret McCoy at Milligan, Nebraska. To this union, five children were born: Mary Jo, Anne Christine, Patricia, Roger and David.

    Philip entered the ROTC at the University of Nebraska and then entered in the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant where he served four years in E.T.O. He served his country during World War II and was awarded a World War II Victory Medal. Philip was honorably discharged as a Major on June 12, 1946, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Philip was employed at the Federal Land Bank as a manager in Carroll and Crawford Counties and worked in Shelby County. He retired in September of 1982. Following his retirement, he made his home in Harlan, Iowa.

     Philip was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, the American Legion of Carroll, Iowa, the Carroll County VFW, and was the past president of the Carroll, Iowa, Kiwanis. He enjoyed woodworking, playing golf and playing bridge.

Philip died on Tuesday, June 27, 2006, at the Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-eight years, nine months, and nine days. In addition to his parents, Philip was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Krough and a grandchild, Cara Riley.

     Survivors include his wife, Margaret of Harlan, Iowa; his children: Mary Jo Riley and Don Laubach of Spirit Lake, Iowa; Ann Christine Dennis of Elk Horn, Nebraska; Patricia Scheer of Chicago, Illinois; Roger Dennis of Des Moines, Iowa; David Dennis and his wife, Ellen of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; eight grandchildren: Cathy, Thomas, Kristine, Robert, Matthew, Jim, Hannah and Peter; thirteen great-grandchildren; his sister: Mary Hedglin of Rochester, Minnesota; other relatives and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, June 30, 2006, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Robert Hoefler as the celebrant. 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 Steve Marsh, Dennis Krough, John Helling, Gordon Dennis, and Don Brubaker. Serving as casket bearers were Thomas Riley, Robert P. Callahan, James Scheer, Catherine Thee, Matthew D. Callahan, Peter Ilten, Kristine Riley and Hanna Ilten.

 

 

Elma Dent - Age 98Elma Dent

     Elma (Petersen) Dent, the daughter of Senius Petersen and Jensine Petersen, was born on March 18, 1907, on a farm in Jackson Township, Shelby County, Iowa. As a young girl, she kept house for people in the community. She grew to adulthood in the Jacksonville and Redline Community.

     On January 22, 1927, Elma was united in marriage to Dallas Dent at the Lutheran Parsonage in Jacksonville, Iowa. Three children were born to this union: Colleen, Darrell and Beverly. After their marriage, the couple farmed near Redline until 1954, when they moved into Harlan, Iowa. Dallas died in 1990, after celebrating sixty-three years of marriage. In 1992, Elma moved to the Westridge Apartments in Harlan.

     Elma was a member of the Redline Church of Christ in Redline, Iowa, and was a charter member of the Polk Center Workers Club and was one of the last surviving members. She enjoyed her needle work over the years.

     Elma died on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-eight years and eighteen days. In addition to her parents and her husband, Dallas, Elma was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Colleen; and infant sister, two brothers, Gerhart and Leo; a sister, Inez Hansen; and son-in-law, Edward Tolle.

     Survivors include her son, Darrell Dent and his wife, Loraine of Council Bluffs, Iowa; her daughter, Beverly Tolle of Kirkman, Iowa; four grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; several step great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Friday, April 8, 2005, at 2:00 PM at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Roy North as the clergy.  Serving as casket bearers were Duane Dent, Nathan Tolle, Lyle Petersen, Kevin Walters, Brian Tolle, and Kevin Fries.  Interment was held in the Redline Cemetery, Redline, Iowa.

 

 

Cliff R. DeSchamp - Age 76

     Clifford Ray DeSchamp was born in Corydon, Indiana on November 29, 1930 to John and Wilda Fern (Trobaugh) DeSchamp. He was one of four children in the family. At the age of sixteen, Cliff came to Iowa to live with Otho and Ethel Trobaugh, his aunt and uncle. He worked on the farm for Orvie Fischer of Avoca.

     Cliff enlisted in the Navy in 1951 and served during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Henrico. He was discharged from the Navy in 1954 and returned to Avoca, where he once again worked for Orvie. Orvie and his wife Alta, their children, Sandra, Cheryl, Cindy and Orvetta became Cliff's Iowa family and were always very special to him. In 1955, he married Marilyn Paulsen, to which three children were born: Clifford, Jr., Collette and Darla.

     Cliff worked at various jobs including having a milk route for the Avoca Creamery and driving truck for Henry Nelson, Ring Transfer and Schueman Trucking. He also had his own excavation business, retiring in 1990. Cliff then drove truck locally for firms in the area. He was involved in various organizations throughout his life. He was a member of the Avoca Volunteer Fire Department, a Boy Scout Leader, Fairboard Member, served as a member of the Avoca City Council, was a baseball coach for a Legion sponsored team and was an active member of the Avoca and Hancock American Legions.

      Cliff died on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa. He had attained the age of seventy six years, five months and ten days. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother Claude and a sister, Margie Cillian.

      He is survived by his children: Cliff DeSchamp, Jr of Avoca; Collette Guyer and her husband, Roy, of Hancock, Iowa; Darla Ehlers and her husband, Todd, of Walnut, Iowa; six grandchildren: Brent DeSchamp, Joshua Guyer, Alexander, Megan, Sarah and Benjamin Ehlers; one brother, Carlton DeSchamp and his wife, Marcella, of Avoca, Iowa; other relatives and many friends.

     Graveside Services were held on Friday, May 11, 2007 at 11:00 AM at the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Dennis Reich as the clergy. Military Rites were done by the Fred Funston American Legion Post No. 227 of Avoca, Iowa and American Legion Post No. 720 of Hancock, Iowa.

 

 

Donald "Doc" Deatherage - Age 77

 

     Donald Eugene "Doc" Deatherage was born on March 27, 1930, in Hancock, Iowa, to William and Martha (Krueger) Deatherage.  Doc died on Sunday, February 17, 2008, having attained the age of seventy-seven years, ten months, and twenty-one days.

     Doc is survived by his sister, Mary Lou Emken, of Avoca, Iowa.

 

Please call the Avoca Chapel

1-800-447-2588

for more information

 

 

Beatrice “Betty” P. Diggle - Age 93

     Beatrice "Betty" Pauline Diggle, the daughter of J. S. and Winifred Schultz Campbell, was born on August 7, 1912 in Atlantic, Iowa. Betty attended school in Avoca, Iowa. After her graduation, Betty was united in marriage to Derald Diggle on February 27, 1935 in Omaha, Nebraska. They farmed in Logan, Iowa until moving into Shelby where Derald was employed at Farmer's Savings Bank, presently known as the Shelby County State Bank. Derald died on March 9, 1970. After his death, Betty continued to make her home in Shelby.

     Betty was active in state politics, she enjoyed nature, gardening and loved animals. She and Derald traveled all over the country during their married life. Betty became a resident of the Avoca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in 1999. Due to her illness, Betty communicated with her eyes, her face, with laughter and lots of smiles. Betty died on Monday, January 9, 2006 at the Avoca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Avoca having attained the age of ninety-three years, five months and two days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her twin sister, Beulah Campbell, sister, Jessie Campbell Kendrick and two brothers: Warren and Bill Campbell.

     She is survived by her niece and nephews: Jenny Kendrick Gelder of The Villages, Florida; Talton Kendrick of Boca Grande, Florida and Bill Campbell of Harlan, Iowa; other relatives and many friends.

 

 

Sally B. Dirks - Age 68Sally Dirks

     Sally Belle Dirks, the daughter of Everette and Vera Pitt Barrier, was born on May 6, 1935 in Neola, Iowa. She was baptized at the Presbyterian Church in Neola where she also attended and graduated from Neola High School. While in school, Sally played on the Neola Girls Basketball team that competed at the state tournament two years in a row. She was also active in band as well as various school plays. After graduation, Sally attended Jennie Edmundson School of Nursing in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

     Sally was united in marriage to Alfred Dirks in Worthington, Minnesota on June 3, 1955. To this union three children were born: Mark, Joel and Sarah. While her sons were young, Sally enjoyed participating in scouts with them. In 1970, Sally and her family moved to Denison, Iowa where she worked at Cronks Café. She later was also employed as a CNA at Northcrest Nursing Home in Council Bluffs, Iowa and at REM Leadway in Shelby, Iowa. Sally was employed at the Avoca Nursing Home when she retired in 1994 due to her health. She moved from Avoca and made her home in Harlan shortly after her retirement. She enjoyed spending her days with her children and grandchildren. Sally was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Harlan, Iowa.

     Sally died on Thursday, March 4, 2004 at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, attaining the age of sixty-eight years, nine months and twenty-nine days. In addition to her parents, Sally was preceded in death by three sons, David and two who died in infancy, a granddaughter, Amanda Dirks, and her sisters, Paula Barrier and Darlene Steenbock.

     She is survived by her children: Mark Dirks and his friend, Jannel Underwood, of Charter Oak, Iowa; Joel Dirks and his wife, Kathy of Harlan, Iowa; and Sarah Wegner and her friend Steve Reetz of Deloit, Iowa; her grandchildren: Trisha Dirks, Shane Swanson, Benjamin Wegner and Kelsey Wegner; her brothers and sisters: Linda Allison of Utah; Doug Barrier of California; Donnie Barrier of Colorado; Ruel Orme of Neola, Iowa and Beulah Witt of Manning, Iowa, nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Monday, March 8, 2004 at 1:00 PM at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Harlan, Iowa with Pastor Curtis Denney as clergy. Honorary casket bearers were Trisha Dirks, Shane Swanson, Benjamin Wegner and Kelsey Wegner. Serving as casket bearers were Terry Orme, Gary Witt, Randy Orme, Davin Dickerson, Todd Harlow and Gary Bucy. Interment was held in the Neola Township Cemetery in Neola, Iowa.

 

 

Lois M. Dodd - Age 93

     Lois Mary Dodd, the daughter of Thomas Lapsley and Wilhma Jewel (Grandstaff) Adam, was born on February 2, 1912, in New Rockford, North Dakota. She graduated from high school there in 1930. She attended Minot State Teachers College. Lois was employed in banking in New Rockford for ten years.

     On July 25, 1942, she married William (Bill) Calvin Dodd in Los Angeles, California. During and after World War II, they lived in different cities: Los Angeles, California, Fort Pendleton, Oregon, Lebanon, Missouri, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, and Grand Island, Nebraska. They moved to Harlan, Iowa, in October of 1952, where Bill was the general manager of Farner’s Stores through 1977.

     Lois was always active. She was a good golfer and bowler. She enjoyed ceramics and had her own kiln; she taught ceramics to her children’s Brownies and Cub Scouts groups. She enjoyed other crafts, such as decoupage, needlepoint, and making jewel trees. Lois was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Harlan; she was active in her church circle. (She sold a lot of brooms and was well-known for her ginger cookies.) Whenever some family member or friend was ill, Lois would drive to North Dakota, California, Illinois, Minnesota, or Nebraska to take care of them. She also enjoyed the culinary arts, playing bridge, and was an avid reader. She loved being involved in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. Lois died in her home on Thursday, March 17, 2005, having attained the age of ninety-three years, one month and fifteen days.

     Bill (W.C.) Dodd died June 10, 1981. Also preceded Lois in death were her parents, one brother, James Adam, and three sisters, Isabel Lindsey, Caryle Chandler, and Doris Bennett.

     She is survived by one daughter, Lynne Coates of Grand Island, Nebraska; and one son, Jim Dodd and his wife, Lisa of Eugene, Oregon; four grandchildren: Michelle (Jim) Cowgill of Parker, Colorado; Adam Coates of Beaver Lake, Nebraska; Jacqueline and Colton Dodd of Eugene, Oregon; and one great-granddaughter, Caitlin Cowgill of Parker, Colorado.

     Memorial Services were held on Saturday, April 2, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa with Rev Ed Frank as the clergy. Private interment was held in the Harlan Cemetery, Harlan, Iowa.

 

Arrangements and Services ForWilliam Doll

William A. Doll - Age 53

Who Died On Friday,

December 30, 2005

Visitation

No Public Visitation

Memorial Service

Sunday, January 1, 2005

4:00 P.M.

Abundant Life Church

Harlan, Iowa

 

Survivors include his wife, Marilyn Collett Doll of Harlan, IA; his sons: Billy (Katie) Doll of Maryland and Brett Doll of Florida; his beloved daughter, Jessica Doll of Harlan, IA; his brother Brian (Nona) Doll and his sister Brenda Ward both of Florida

 

 

Jay William Dollen - Age 35

     Jay William Dollen was born on November 21, 1971 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He was the son of LeRoy and Beverly (Witt) Dollen and was one of four children in the family. He attended school at Tri-Center near Neola, Iowa and graduated with the Class of 1990.

     Jay was united in marriage to Jodi Sanders on May 2, 1992 at the Minden United Church of Christ in Minden, Iowa. They were the parents of one son, Riley Jay. Jay has been employed at Griffin Pipe Company in Council Bluffs, Iowa for the past twelve years as a Lab Technician.

     Jay was a member of the Minden Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. The proudest part of Jay's life was being a Dad. Besides his love of motorcycle riding, Jay also enjoyed crossword puzzles, cooking, growing a huge vegetable garden, spending time with family and friends and he was also a big fan of the St. Louis Cardinal baseball team.

     Jay died on Sunday, June 3, 2007 at Creighton Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska following a motorcycle accident near Minden. He had attained the age of thirty five years, six months and thirteen days.

     Jay is survived by his wife, Jodi and their son, Riley of Minden; his parents, LeRoy and Beverly Dollen of Minden; his twin brother, Jon Dollen of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; two sisters: Rochelle Parks of Neola, Iowa and Kaylee Schneckloth and her husband, Jason, of Minden; his grandmother, Estella Witt of Honey Creek, Iowa; his mother-in-law, JoLeen Sanders of Boonville, Missouri; his father-in-law, Dallas Sanders of Minden; a brother-in-law, Scott Parks of Neola; a sister-in-law, Jill Shriver and her husband, Darin, of Persia, Iowa; three nieces, two nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.

 

 

Arrangements and Services ForYvonne Dollen

Yvonne D. Dollen - Age 87

Who Died On - Saturday, December 31, 2005

Visitation

Thursday, January 5, 2006 from 9:00 to 9:00 PM

Pauley Jones Funeral Home - Avoca Chapel

Family Will Greet Friends

Thursday, January 5, 2006 from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Pauley Jones Funeral Home - Avoca Chapel

Funeral Services

Friday, January 6, 2006 at 10:30 AM

Minden United Church of Christ 

Minden, Iowa

Interment

Minden Cemetery - Minden, Iowa

 

Survivors include her son: Roger (Brenda) Dollen of Avoca, Iowa; daughter: Darla Englert of Houston, Texas, Grandson: George Richard "Trey" Englert of Houston, Texas; and sister: Bernice Ehlers of Shelby, Iowa

 

 

Clifton O. Domina - Age 78

     Clifton Orville Domina, the son of Clifton V. and Lily Mary Miller Domina was born on February 6, 1926 at Obert, Nebraska. They moved to Iowa when Clifton was five years old. He attended country school through the eighth grade and then Onawa High School for two years, often riding his bike seven miles in the morning and then again after school.

     In Clifton’s teen years he worked as a farm laborer in the summers and for ten years following his two years in the Army. He served during World War II at the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium where he froze his feet.

     On August 27, 1947, Clifton was united in marriage to Lois Wagner of Turin, Iowa.  To this union five children were born. In November of 1956, Clifton began working as a Meat Inspector for the U.S.D.A. He retired after thirty years and then did odd jobs to keep busy until he became disabled by a stroke.

     Clifton died on November 22, 2004 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa having attained the age of seventy-eight years, nine months and sixteen days. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Nancy Faye and one sister, LaDonna Rowell.

     Survivors include his wife, Lois of Hancock, Iowa, three sons: David Domina and his wife, Patricia of Norfolk, Nebraska; Gary Domina and his wife, Elena of Coos Bay, Oregon and Paul Domina and his wife, Karen of Omaha, Nebraska; one daughter, Betty Davis of Omaha, Nebraska; his grandchildren: Dawn and her husband, Monty Bundy of Webster, South Dakota; Andrew Domina and his wife, Beth of Omaha, Nebraska; Shari and her husband, David Dittmeyer of Lawton, Oklahoma; Becki and her husband, James Nored of Liberty, Missouri; Stephen Domina of Weldon, Iowa; John Domina of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Adam Domina and his wife, Jill of Osceola, Iowa; Zacharie Domina of Omaha, Nebraska; Connor, Mary, Ian, Bryan and Matthew Davis all of Omaha, Nebraska; eight great-grandchildren: Riggins and Mason Bundy, Hunter Domina, Abigail Dittmeyer, Gina and Emily Nored, Riley and Ethan Domina; four sisters: Dorothy and her husband, Kenneth Alderson, Lois Loetz, and Phyllis and her husband James LeBarge, all of Sioux City, Iowa; Dee and her husband, Gary Kendall of Omaha, Nebraska; two brothers: Melvin Domina and his wife, Nancy of Omaha, Nebraska and Donald Domina and his wife, Sandi of Washta, Iowa, his Christian Family, nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

     A Celebration of the Life of Clifton O. Domina was held on Saturday, November 27, 2004, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, at 10:00 A.M. with Larry Fiscus officiating and the American Legion Helmer Reylet Post No. 150 and the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941 serving as casket bearers. Military Rites were conducted by the Iowa Army National Guard in the Belvidere Cemetery in Turin, Iowa, at 2:00 P.M. with the Iowa Army National Guard serving as casket bearers.

 

 

Alice M. (Hansen) Doonan

     Alice Marie Hansen Doonan, the daughter of Chris N. and Ingeborg (Madsen) Hansen, was born on July 30, 1914, on a farm near Jacksonville, Iowa. She grew to adulthood on the family farm and attended country school at Jackson Township No. 2 in Jacksonville, Iowa. Alice was baptized and confirmed at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville.

     On January 24, 1937, Alice was united in marriage to Wilford "Bill" Doonan at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa. The couple farmed near Jacksonville for over 25 years. To this union, two daughters were born, Genevieve and Linda. They were born on the eighth of March, just one year apart. This was always a very special day for Bill and Alice celebrating their daughter’s birthday with relatives and friends. They retired from farming in 1962, and built a new home in Harlan. Bill owned and operated "Bill’s Gulf Station" at 7th and Durant Street, he passed away July 18, 1973.

     Alice enjoyed her family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed playing the piano, baking, crafts, quilting, and playing cards.

     Alice passed away on Friday, March 10, 2006, at the Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of ninety-one years, seven months, and eleven days. In addition to her parents, and her husband Bill, Alice was preceded in death by an infant brother.

     Grateful for sharing in her life are her two daughters, Genevieve and her husband, Al Wede of Atlantic, Iowa; Linda Wisdom of Sterling, Colorado; seven grandchildren: Alfred Wede, Jr., Nancy (Wede) Templeman and her husband, Tim, Rodney Wede and his wife, Ruth Ann, Scott Wede, Rhonda Smith, Randy Basford and his wife, Shannon, and Ron Basford; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Monday, March 13, 2006, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan, Iowa, at 10:30 A.M. with Pastor Dennis Meyer officiating. Interment was in the Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa, with Tim Templeman, Shane Basford, Alfred Wede, Jr., Ruth Anne & Blake Wede, Shannon & Savanah Basford, and Bill & Bertha Hansen serving as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were Rodney Wede, Randy Basford, Scott Wede, Justen Templeman, Branden Kemp, and Trevor Templeman.

 

 

Donald D. Doonan - Age 79

     Donald Dean Doonan was born on April 20, 1928, to Arthur and Elma (Gaer) Doonan in rural Elk Horn, Iowa. He was baptized at First Baptist Church in Elk Horn and remained a lifelong member of the congregation. He attended rural elementary school west of Elk Horn and graduated from the Elk Horn High School.

   On December 1, 1949, he was united in marriage to Charlotte Young at the Irwin Church of Christ in Irwin, Iowa. Five children were born to this union: Thomas, Robert, David, Pamela, and Jeanette.

     Donald farmed near Elk Horn for sixteen years. In 1965, he ended his farming career and worked at various jobs. One of the jobs he enjoyed was as a janitor at the Elk Horn schools. He was always quick to smile and chat with the children. Donald retired in 1993 and he and Charlotte remained living in the Elk Horn community.

     Donald enjoyed drawing and woodworking. He would often travel to swap meets around the region.

     Donald died on Saturday, June 9, 2007, at the Audubon County Memorial Hospital in Audubon, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-nine years, one month, and twenty days. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Vic.

     He is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years, Charlotte Doonan of Elk Horn, Iowa; his children: Tom Doonan and his wife Pam of Winterville, Georgia, Bob Doonan and his wife Connie of Newell, Iowa, David Doonan and Amy Johnson of Burlington, Iowa, Pam Doonan of Omaha, Nebraska, and Jeanette and her husband Greg Corum of Morton, Illinois; eight grandchildren: Stacy, Shawn, Carrie, Katie, Cyndi, Kyle, Tanner, and Ben; three great-grandchildren: Maggie, Lillie, and Robert; his brother Verle Doonan and his wife Cookie of Audubon, Iowa; his sisters-in-law: Delores Doonan of Exira, Iowa and Lela Hansen of Harlan, Iowa; brother-in-law Donald Young of Manilla, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

     A funeral service was held on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home. Rev. Don Hoover officiated the 11:00 AM service. Serving as casket bearers were Jason Hoffman, Tim Fredricksen, Lyle Petersen, Shawn Doonan, Kyle Doonan, Pat Nepple, Greg Corum, and Mark Logan. Interment was held at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa.

 

 

Joanne Dresen - Age 70

     Joanne Yvonne Dresen, the daughter of Maurice and Alice Finnegan Sullivan, was born on May 6, 1933, on a farm in Dunlap, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dunlap, Iowa. Joanne attended school at Dunlap and was a member of the graduating class of 1951. After graduating she went to work at Boys Town as a secretary. It was then that she met Marcus Dresen.

     On May 15, 1954, Joanne was united in marriage to Marcus Dresen at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dunlap, Iowa. Eight children were born to this union: Sandra, Michael, David, Steven, Lori, Kevin, Christopher, and Jennifer. Joanne worked at Finken’s Store in Earling and Dubuque Packing for some time. She enjoyed taking her lady friends of Earling to their hair and doctor appointments. Joanne was later employed at Communication Data Services in Harlan, retiring in December of 2002.

     She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, St. Joseph’s Altar Society and the Earling Quilters. Joanne enjoyed quilting and collecting Irish memorabilia. Her children and grandchildren were very important to her. She would attend all of her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. Joanne was a very special person and will be missed by all.

     Joanne died on Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy years, nine months and twenty-seven days. In addition to her parents, Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Marcus and her brother, Pat Sullivan and sister, Rita Heffernan. Survivors include her children, Sandra and her husband, Don Rohe of Carroll, Iowa; Michael Dresen and his wife, Julie of Earling, Iowa; David Dresen of Earling, Iowa; Steven Dresen and his wife, Kim of Harlan, Iowa; Lori Dresen of Omaha, Nebraska; Kevin Dresen of Earling, Iowa; Christopher Dresen and his wife, Connie of Polk City, Iowa; Jennifer Schaben of Earling, Iowa; seventeen grandchildren; her sisters and brother, Mary Alice and her husband, Fritz Baldwin of Dunlap, Iowa; Lorraine and her husband, Bob Weber of Dunlap, Iowa; Tom Sullivan and his wife, Sally of Carroll, Iowa; Kathleen and her husband, John Roane of Neola, Iowa; her brother-in-law, Ed Heffernan of Dunlap, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and a great many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Rev. Michael Berner at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, March 5, 2004 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling with Nick Rohe, Marcus Dresen, Matt Rohe, Shane Walde, Don Weber and Frank Roane serving as casket bearers.

 

 

Larry M. Dresen - Age 71

     Lawrence Matthew Dresen, the son of Chris and Irene Miller Dresen was born on April 25, 1933 in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and then attended school at St. Joseph’s, graduating with the class of 1951. While in school Larry played baseball and basketball and was known as an outstanding athlete.

     After high school Larry played professional baseball as a pitcher with the Cleveland Indians Minor League in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Reading, Pennsylvania and Mobile, Alabama. On May 18, 1954, Larry was inducted into the United States Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on February 20, 1956. While in the Army, he met Lois Jean Brown, who was employed at the Indiantown Gap Military Reservation in Pennsylvania. They were united in marriage in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania on November 26, 1955 and they became the parents of four children: LuAnn, Ronald, Linda and Roger. After Larry’s time in the service, Larry and Lois came back to Earling, Iowa to make their home where Larry was employed for Squealer Feed in Harlan, Iowa. Larry also owned and operated his own business, simply named, Larry’s Place, retiring in 1987. Currently, Larry was employed at Farmers Trust and Savings Bank in Earling as a custodian.

     Larry died peacefully at his home, with his wife of forty-nine years by his side, attaining the age of seventy-one years, eight months and nine days. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Rita Dresen, his brother, Marcus Dresen and wife, JoAnn and two grandchildren: Nathan Mathew Klein and Nicholas Dresen.

     He is survived by his wife, Lois of Earling, Iowa; his children: LuAnn and her husband, Craig Gross of Panama, Iowa, Ronald Dresen of Omaha, Nebraska, Linda Klein of Earling, Iowa and Roger Dresen of Portsmouth, Iowa; eight grandchildren; one sister, Mildred and her husband, Ivo Finken of Earling, Iowa, other relatives and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian burial was held on Friday, January 7, 2005 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa with Rev. Michael Berner as the celebrant. Serving as casket bearers were Mike Dresen, Chris Dresen, Steve Dresen, Doug Finken, Kevin Dresen and Dean Finken. Interment was at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa with military grave side rites were held by the American Legion Post No. 615 of Earling, Iowa.

 

 

Coletta Duke - Age 87

     Coletta M. Duke, the daughter of August and Frances Susan Weis Reding, was born March 27, 1917, at Earling, Iowa, Union Township. She was baptized at St. Joseph in Earling, Iowa. She attended country school and St. Paul’s Catholic High School in Defiance, Iowa. Coletta was confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa.

     Coletta was united in marriage to Guyle (Nick) Herbert Duke on January 22, 1937 in Earling, Iowa. After their marriage, Nick and Coletta made their home in Harlan, Iowa. Coletta worked with her husband for many years for the Farm Service Coop. She also worked several years at the City Hall in Harlan, Iowa.

     Coletta was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. She enjoyed playing golf, cooking (especially cookies, pies, and brownies), fishing, watching sports, knitting, and playing cards.

     Due to ill health, Coletta was a resident at Elm Crest Retirement Center in Harlan, Iowa, for the last thirteen years. Coletta died on October 28, 2004, in Harlan, Iowa. She attained the age of eighty-seven years, seven months, and one day.

     In addition to her parents, Coletta is preceded in death by her husband, Guyle "Nick" Duke on January 9, 1979, and her brother, Irmin. Survivors include her sister, Rita and her husband Ted Albracht of Sioux City, Iowa; her brother, Germain and his wife Armella Reding of Omaha, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Marie Reding of Manilla, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, October 30, 2004 at 1:00 P.M. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Rev. Robert Hoefler as the celebrant. Interment was in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Jeff Reding, Garland Barrett, Larry Reding, Larry Wunder, Regina Werthmann, and Ted Albracht serving as casket bearers.

 

 

John R. Dunlevy - Age 55

     John  Richard AScoop@ Dunlevy was born June 10, 1952 in Council Bluffs to John and Lettie Dunlevy of Avoca, Iowa.  He was a confirmed member of the St. Mary=s Catholic Church and a graduate of AvoHa Community Schools.  After completing college at  Missouri Western College in St. Joe, John taught history and coached at Arnold=s Park and Orient Macksburg.  He passed away recently at his home in Avoca.

     John loved teaching and coaching, helping kids excel whether in the classroom recreating battles with his fellow teachers or on the field in athletic competitions. As a coach, he made three trips to the state tournament -- two with softball and one with golf.  John believed in the importance of history, and he cherished his trips with Lettie to Civil War Battle sites.  A long-standing Democrat, John was involved in local politics and the presidential race.

     As a devoted Nebraska fan, John loved Big Red Football and even managed to bring his nephew Pat to the ARed Side@.  Also supporting the AHST teams, the Royals, Chiefs, and Cardinals, John was known to follow sports to the extent of having 2 TVs and a radio on to catch all the current scores.  An expert at Spades, John was highly competitive whether the arena was softball, a family game of Monopoly, or pursuing favors from his great nieces Elizabeth and Esther. John also loved to cook and garden, and he never turned down a chance to water ski anywhere, but especially at Okoboji.  However, nothing was as important as family, and John supported them in their every endeavor. 

     John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lettie Dunlevy; his sister, Lettie and brother-in-law Mike Ross; niece Katherine and nephews Mathew and Daniel Ross.  

     John is survived by his brother Tim, his sister Mary Gramkow and her husband Gail, nephews Matthew and Patrick Gramkow all of Avoca; nephew Pete Ross and his wife Sandy and his sons Mathew and Kyle of Montezuma; nieces Annie Gramkow and Molly Brandt and her husband Joel of Council Bluffs, and great nieces Elizabeth and Esther Brandt of Council Bluffs; and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 1:30 P.M. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Avoca with Father John Frost as celebrant.  Burial was in Graceland Cemetery in Avoca.  Honorary casket bearers were Georgia Sievers, Randy Scott and Ken Sedlacek.  Serving as casket bearers were Eric Parks, Rex Eichelberger, Randy Platt, Paul Jensen, Ronald Gustafson, Pete Bramman and Charles Ronnfeldt.  Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca was in charge of arrangements.

 

 

Caroline J. Dunn - Age 87Caroline Jeanette Dunn

     Caroline "Jeanette" Dunn, the daughter of Peter and Lona Jensen Madson, was born on April 2, 1916, in rural Harlan, Iowa. She attended Fairview Township Country School and then Harlan Community High School. Jeanette was a member of the graduating class of 1934. As a young adult, she joined the Altamont Baptist Church. Upon graduation, Jeanette began teaching at Cuppy’s Grove Country School.

     On December 22, 1937, she was united in marriage to Jerome Dunn on her parent’s farm. After their marriage, they lived in Cuppy’s Grove and farmed there until 1946 when they moved to Harlan, Iowa. After the death of her husband, Jerome, on April 7, 1967, Jeanette continued to live in Harlan, Iowa. She was employed at Farner’s Store for several years and later at the Harlan Municipal Utilities. Jeanette retired in 1982 and continued to live in Harlan until February of 2002, when she became a resident of Caley Ridge Assisted Living in Denver, Colorado. In February of 2004, she moved to Shalom Park Care Center in Denver, Colorado.

     Jeanette was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa, and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and attending her coffee clubs.

     She died on Wednesday, March 24, 2004, at Shalom Park Care Center in Denver, Colorado, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months, and twenty-two days. Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jerome and a brother, Paul and a sister, Virginia. Survivors include her children, Jay Dunn and his wife, Jean of Centennial, Colorado; Nancy Lytle of Centennial, Colorado; Alan Dunn and his wife, Paulette of Littleton, Colorado; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; six step great-grandchildren; her sister, Marge Custer of Harlan, Iowa; her brother, Philip Madson and his wife, Pearl of Harlan, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and a great many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 29, 2004 at 10:00 A.M. at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Rev. Ed Frank officiating. Interment was in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Larry Madson, Bob Appleby, Steve Lytle, Justin Lytle, Douglas Lytle and Jerry Dunn serving as casket bearers.

 

 

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