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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

 


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Judith M. Garvin - Age 69

     Judith "Judy" Maureen Garvin was born on September 3, 1941 to William and Jocelyn (Lawrence) Wiesemann in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. She graduated from high school in Malone, New York.

     On September 22, 1984, Judy was united in marriage to Roy Garvin in Council Bluffs, Iowa. In addition to being a housewife, Judy studied to be a nursing assistant online. She was a truck driver for many years, as well as worked as a parts person for B & L Garage in Council Bluffs.

     Judy graduated in 1994 from the International Graphoanalysis Society’s program, making her a professional handwriting analysist. She enjoyed helping people learn about themselves and their hidden tendencies through an analysis of their handwriting.

     Judy liked to sew and learned how to use beads and work with leather to make clothes from the different materials. She and Roy enjoyed camping in their 18 foot teepee. Because of Roy’s Native American heritage, they enjoyed attending special Indian related festivals, shows, and camping gatherings.

     Judy died on Saturday, July 3, 2010 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of sixty-eight years and ten months. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Bradley.

     She is survived by her husband of twenty-five years Roy Garvin of Avoca, Iowa; their children Jill and her husband Melvin Buffington of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Chris Jacobs of Omaha, Nebraska, Melissa Diesing of Phoenix, Arizona, Cherry Parham of Harlan, Iowa, and Louise Wood of Shenandoah, Iowa; fourteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother James Wiesemann of Malone, New York; sister Terri-Lynn Wiesemann of Virginia Beach, Virginia; other family members and friends.

     Pastor Annette Wagoner conducted the 3:00 PM Celebration of Life Service at New Life Fellowship Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Saturday, July 10, 2010.

 

Jack E. Gaskill - Age 86

     Jack was born on a farm east of Hamlin in Audubon County on November 10, 1921 to Oscar and Margaret (Anderson) Gaskill. He attended school at country school near Hamlin and later in Gray, Iowa.

     Jack met his wife, Opal Richards, in Irwin, Iowa. They were later married in Springfield, Nebraska on February 27, 1943. Three children were born to this union: Lynn, Judy, and Kathy. After their wedding, the couple moved to a farm east of Irwin and eventually moved to the Gaskill home farm, which is a Century Farm today. Their grandson Greg Gaskill now resides on the family farm.

     After retiring in 1983 from the farm, Jack and Opal moved to their home in Irwin where he did beautiful woodworking. He made a large entertainment center and many craft items. Jack enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and taking them to the Country Store for ice cream and candy.

     Jack was an early riser even after retiring he would go to the Country Store for coffee with the guys at 4:30 AM. He also enjoyed fishing at Lake View and he especially enjoyed going fishing in the Dakotas and Canada.

     Jack became a resident of the Manilla Manor on May 4, 2005. It was there that he died on Monday, November 19, 2007 having attained the age of eighty-six years and nine days. Jack is preceded in death by his parents.

     He is survived by his wife Opal of Irwin, Iowa; his children: Lynn and his wife Myrna of Manilla, Iowa; Judy Fenster of Kansas City, Missouri; and Kathy and her husband Jerry Luetje of Ankeny, Iowa; eight grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren; and one brother Bob Gaskill and his wife Kay of Iowa City, Iowa and one sister-in-law June and her husband Walter Murray of Irwin, Iowa.

     A funeral service was held on Wednesday, November 21, 2007, at the Church of Christ in Irwin, Iowa. Rev. Ted Sieck performed the 10:30 AM service with burial at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa with Lyle Shepard, Ronnie Gaskill, Clinton Kienast, and Kent Richards serving as honorary casket bearers. Serving as active casket bearers were: Shane Gaskill, Greg Gaskill, Chris Fenster, Jarad Gaskill, Corey Gaskill, and Chad Gaskill.

Mildred R. Gaul - 86
     Mildred Rosalie Gaul was born on February 1, 1924 in Earling, Iowa, to Anton and Veronica (Kloewer) Rau. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic School with the Class of 1941.
     She furthered her education at St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing and became a registered nurse in 1945. She then worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Omaha and Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan.
     On October 5, 1948, she was united in marriage to Roman A. Gaul at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. Eleven children were born to this union: Carla, Mike, Gerarda, Mark, Don, Joe, Ann, Mary, Gina, Karen, and Michele.
     Mildred’s hobbies were quilting and sewing - she made twelve wedding gowns. She enjoyed playing bingo, visiting with family and friends, and doing volunteer work. She served on the Parish Council, the School Board, taught CCD and was a firm believer of the Golden Rule and thinking of the other person first.
     Mildred went on vacation to Nevada and it was there that she died unexpectedly on Monday, January 24, 2011, having attained the age of eighty-six years, eleven months, and twenty-three days. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Roman, daughter Gerarda, brothers Joe and Goar, sister Therese and two grandchildren.
     She is survived by her children: Carla Gaul of Omaha, Nebraska, Mike Gaul of Earling, Iowa, Mark Gaul and his wife Patti of League City, Texas, Don Gaul and his wife Mary of Earling, Joe Gaul and his wife Mallory of Earlham, Iowa, Ann Gaul of Omaha, Nebraska, Mary and her husband Chris Tepe of Harlan, Iowa, Gina Gaul of Lincoln, Nebraska, Karen Gaul of Des Moines, Iowa, and Michele Gaul and her fiancé Kurt Wetzstein of Omaha; nine grandchildren; brothers Harold Rau of Harlan and Howard Rau and his wife Dorothea of St. Louis, Missouri; sister Mary Carroll of Earling; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 2:30 PM Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Honorary casket bearer was Bob Carroll. Serving as casket bearers were Mike Gaul, Mark Gaul, Chris Tepe, Joe Gaul, Kurt Wetzstein, and Don Gaul. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.

Esther Gearhart - Age 79
    
Esther Gearhart was born on February 11, 1931 to Marius and Johanna Marie (Rasmussen) Christensen in Kimballton, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Kimballton. She attended Kimballton Public School until the eighth grade and graduated from Audubon High School in 1949.
     Esther married Charles Gearhart on February 16, 1951 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Kimballton, Iowa. Four children were born to this union: Michael, Kathleen, Denise and Wayne. After marriage, Charles and Esther farmed until moving to Harlan, Iowa in 1957. Esther was a homemaker, worked part-time at Mickels, then went to work as a cook at the Harlan Junior High School in 1965 until her retirement in 2002 from the new Harlan Community Middle School.
     Esther enjoyed entertaining family and friends and always had a pot of coffee ready for any guest. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who always taught her children to face life’s challenges head on without complaining. Her greatest contributions in life were her talent of giving, her compassion for others and her generous spirit of life.
     She was a 50 year member of the Harlan American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and also a member of the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Auxiliary of Harlan. Esther was also a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan where she was active as a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher, in various women’s circles, secretary of the church council and a member of the bell choir. Esther was also very proud of her Danish ancestry and was a member of the Danish Historical Society as well as the Harlan Historical Society. She also was the Grand Marshal of the 2005 Harlan Community School Homecoming Parade.
     In November of 2009, Esther became a resident of the Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan and this is where she died on September 11, 2010 having attained the age of seventy-nine years and seven months. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Wayne A. Gearhart and her grandson Wayne J. Gearhart.
     She is survived by her husband Charles Gearhart of Harlan, Iowa; her children: Michael Gearhart and his wife Ruth of Newman Grove, Nebraska, Kathleen and her husband Doug Poehlman of Kansas City, Missouri, and Denise and her husband Tim Arkfeld of Cincinnati, Ohio; her brothers Kjer Christensen and his wife Loretta of Kimballton, Iowa and Svend Christensen of Mitchellville, Iowa; her sister Bertha Hansen of Elk Horn, Iowa; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; and countless other relatives and friends.
     Pastor Steven Chellew officiated the 2:00 PM funeral service on Tuesday, September 14, 2010, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Donna Ewert was the eulogist. Honorary casket bearers were Nichole Arkfeld, Natalie Arkfeld, Kara Poehlman, Melissa Gearhart Moreno, and Emily Gearhart Ternus. Serving as casket bearers were Andrew Poehlman, Timothy Ternus, Matthew Moreno, Todd Arkfeld, Craig Arkfeld, and Alan Poehlman. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Lynn Gearhart - Age 86

     Lynn Alan Gearhart, son of Ellis and Blanche (Kemp) Gearhart, was born on September 23, 1921 near Harlan, Iowa and was one of eight children. He attended Center Township Country School through the eighth grade and was proud to have finished with the highest honors.

     After school, Lynn began farming with his dad raising hogs and cattle and also picked and sold apples from his orchard. Lynn was always a good steward of his land and had a passion for wildlife and the welfare of Native American Indians. Lynn also attained his student permit soloing and doing some flying for a time. An avid music lover, he played the guitar and squeezebox and had many, many scrapbooks and journals full of Shelby County history and farm memories. He loved to play cards, read, had a wealth of knowledge of songbirds, horses, and attended many rodeos.

     Lynn married Elaine Briggs in 1967 and they had three daughters together. He was lovingly called "Grandpa Farmer" by his grandkids and always enjoyed seeing them. He was also proud to live on a Century Farm.

     Lynn died on August 20, 2008, at his home having attained the age of eighty-six years, ten months and twenty-eight days. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Hoyt and his sister Leota Hansen.

     He is survived by his daughters: Annette and her husband Randy Madsen of Kimballton, Iowa; Jennifer and her husband Jeff Nielsen; and Allison Gearhart all of Harlan, Iowa; his stepson Jim Briggs of Carroll, Iowa; four grandchildren: Jamie Madsen, Shaina Madsen, Jason Nielsen, and Jacob Nielsen; two step grandchildren: Jeremy Briggs and his wife Jamie and Lisa Briggs; six step great-grandchildren; his siblings: Hale Gearhart and his wife Shirley of Great Falls, Montana; Charles Gearhart and his wife Esther of Harlan; Shirley McDermott of Atlantic, Iowa; Stuart Gearhart of Reno, Nevada; and Myrna Poldberg of Harlan; nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

     A funeral service was held on Saturday, August 23, 2008 with Pastor Al Halzelton performing the 1:30 PM ceremony at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Casket bearers were Jeremy Briggs, Bruce Poldberg, Mike Gearhart, Chuck Myers, Jason Nielsen, and Jamie Madsen. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa.

Myrtle I. Gearhart - Age 94

     Myrtle Irene Gearhart, daughter of Jacob and Gustava (Strand) Thompson, was born in Irwin, Iowa on March 29, 1913. She attended school in Irwin and graduated with the class of 1930.

    After high school, Myrtle was united in marriage to Orrell Gearhart in Yankton, South Dakota, and to this union, four children were born. A few years after their marriage, the couple then made their home near Harlan. She was quite busy with her children while supporting her husband’s longtime service as the Shelby County Sheriff. They were long time members of the United Methodist Church of Harlan where she was quite active in the United Methodist Women throughout her life. She was also very active in the Eastern Star and the Women’s Hospital Auxiliary.

    After the death of her husband on January 16, 1988, Myrtle continued to make her home in Harlan. She then became a resident at Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan August of 2004, and this is where she died on December 22, 2007, having attained the age of ninety-four years, eight months and twenty-three days. In addition to her parents and husband, Myrtle was preceded in death by four great grandchildren and her brothers and sisters: Alfred, Merlene, Tillie, Gertie, Jenny, Ole, Elmer and James.

     She is survived by her children: Marilyn Tague of Pismo Beach, California; Marlene and her husband Lee Klingenborg of Cedar Falls, Iowa; Larry Gearhart and his companion Barbara Walters of Hot Springs Falls, Arkansas and Cheryl and her husband Keith Svendsen of Loveland, Colorado; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.

    Funeral Services were held on Monday, December 31, 2007 at the United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Dave Swinton officiated the 11:00 AM service with interment at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were: Dean Schaben, Darren Svendsen, Brian Schaben, David Schaben, Brad Svendsen, and Rodney Schaben.

Ralph Gessert - Age 66

     Ralph Edward Gessert, son of Donald and Regina (Patten) Gessert was born on October 20, 1942 in Portsmouth, Iowa and was the oldest of fifteen children. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa and attended Lincoln Township Country School before graduating from Harlan High School in 1961. After high school, Ralph began working for the Shelby County Road Department.

     On April 13, 1964, Ralph joined the United States Army in Omaha, Nebraska and served a tour of duty in Vietnam where he earned three Purple Hearts, a Combat Infantry Badge, and a Vietnam Service Medal. He was honorably discharged on April 8, 1966 and returned to Harlan where he continued to work at the Road Department.

     On June 15, 1968 Ralph was united in marriage to Mickie Kimball at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Two sons were born to this union: Shawn and Stephen. After their wedding, Ralph and Mickie lived in Harlan before buying a farm southwest of Harlan where they built their current house.

     In December 2007, Ralph retired from the Road Department after forty-seven years and kept busy bowling with his brothers, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his grandchildren: Justice, Thysen, Jayden, and Jenna.

     Ralph died on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska having attained the age of sixty-six years and three months. He is preceded in death by his parents.

     He is survived by his wife Mickie; their sons Shawn and his wife Renee and Stephen and his wife Dori all of Harlan; four grandchildren: Justice, Thysen, Jayden, and Jenna; his siblings: Donald Gessert and his wife Susan of Elk Horn, Iowa; Darold Gessert of Harlan; Jo Ann and her husband Lonnie Rose of Harlan; Wayne Gessert of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Rozann Tresner of Maryville, Missouri; Dale Gessert and his wife Georgia of Heartland, Wisconsin; Diane and her husband Terry Derby; Kathy and her husband John Kelly; Marcia and her husband Tom Albertson; Randall Gessert; Darwin Gessert and his wife Mary all of Harlan; Beverly Gessert of Minden, Iowa; Dean Gessert and his wife Deb and Donna Jean Gessert all of Harlan; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 10:00 AM at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa with Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrating the service. Military Rites were held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church following mass by the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941 and the Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Ralph’s grandchildren: Jusice Gessert, Thysen Gessert, Jayden Gessert, and Jenna Gessert. Serving as casket bearers were Dale Gessert, Darwin Gessert, Dean Gessert, Wayne Gessert, Donald Gessert, Randy Gessert, Darold Gessert, and Roy Gorman.


Gene L. Gettys, Sr. - Age 80

     Gene Lloyd Gettys, Sr. was born on April 18, 1928, in Alta, Iowa, to Joe and Clara (Sherman) Gettys. He attended school in Sibley, Iowa, before graduating from the Harlan Community School System where he was a standout athlete.

     Upon graduation Gene served in the United States Navy for two years. He then furthered his education at The University of Iowa where he graduated in May 1952.

     Gene was united in marriage to Jeannette Stephens on December 26, 1957, in Wall Lake, Iowa. Seven children were born to this union: Pam, Tom, Jill, Joe L, Jock, Tricia and Gene Jr.

     In addition to being a father and helping Jeannette raise their seven children he was a teacher and coach. He was consistent in his approach and garnered respect from not only his children but also many of his students and athletes. He briefly served at Glenwood and Denison before landing at his alma mater, the Harlan Community School System, where he retired in May of 1988.

     Gene’s retirement years were spent enjoying the game of golf which he played relentlessly as a youth. He and his wife spent the winter months in Edinburg, Texas where he could enjoy the warmth and continue his golf game.

     Gene died on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, have attained the age of 80 years, three months, and twenty-six days. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Clara, and his brother, Joe L, killed in WWII.

     He is survived by his wife of fifty years Jeannette Gettys of Harlan, his children: Pam and her husband Danny Captain of Seneca, Missouri, Tom Gettys and his wife Jackie of Plano, Texas, Jill and her husband Tom Murtaugh of Harlan, Joe L Gettys and his wife Kathy of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Jock Gettys and his wife Tracee of Harlan, Tricia Doonan and her fiancé Merrit Blunk of Kiron, Iowa, and Gene Gettys Jr. and his wife Angie of Harlan, twenty grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; other family members and friends.

     A funeral service was held on Friday, August 15, 2008, with Pastor Donna Ewert officiating the 1:30 PM service at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Harlan, Iowa. Casket bearers were his children: Pam Captain, Tom Gettys, Jill Murtaugh, Trisha Doonan, Gene Gettys, Jr., Joe L Gettys, and Jock Gettys. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan.

LeRoy G. Glissmann - Age 82

     LeRoy George Glissmann was born on April 18, 1927 to George and Virginia Lucille (Longnecker) Glissmann in Walnut, Iowa. He attended the Walnut Community Schools and graduated with the Class of 1944.

     He farmed with his father after graduation until his entry into the United States Navy in May of 1945. He served in the South Pacific during World War II as a Yeoman Third Class and was honorably discharged in August of 1946.

     After his return home, he continued farming in the Walnut, Iowa, area. He was united in marriage to LaVonne Clemsen on February 12, 1949 in Atlantic, Iowa. Three children were born to this union: Terry, Brenda, and Thomas.

     LeRoy retired from farming and moved to Atlantic where he was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church.

     He became a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca after his marriage to Norma Sorensen-Pierce on June 7, 2008. LeRoy was an outdoors man - an avid hunter and fisherman. He had a collection of antique guns and ammunition and would travel to gun shows. He also collected Indian artifacts.

     LeRoy was admitted to Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa, on July 13, 2009, and it was there that he died on Tuesday, July 14, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-two years, two months, and twenty-six days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife LaVonne, sister Marian Peters and step-daughter Rita Zientek.

     He is survived by his wife Norma Glissmann of Avoca, Iowa; daughter Brenda and her husband Rich Hamilton of Bethany, Missouri; sons Terry Glissmann of Alamagordo, New Mexico and Tom Glissmann and his wife Julia of Ames, Iowa; step-son Lee Sorensen of Logan, Iowa; step-daughter Kay Bergonzi of Yankton, South Dakota; five grandchildren: Erik, Aaron, Derek, Dillon, and Kristin; one great-grandchild due in September; other family members and many friends.

     Pastor Dennis Reich officiated the 1:30 PM service on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Derek Glissmann and Kristin Berry. Serving as casket bearers were Dillon Glissmann, Erik Glissmann, Aaron Glissmann, Rex Sievers, Rich Hamilton, and Tom Kroll. Military Rites were provided by the Walnut American Legion Post No. 422 at Layton Township Cemetery in Walnut, Iowa.

Ethel M. Goans - Age 103
    
Ethel Mae Goans was born on August 4, 1907, to James and Fannie Mae (Matthews) McNear in Anthon, Iowa. She was baptized at the Methodist Church in Anthon and attended school in Anthon.
     Ethel had eight children: Lester, Margie, Edward, Richard, Glenn, Rose, Sonny, and Mary Ann.
     Ethel worked for several years at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, the Shelby County Courthouse, and in the summer, at the Shelby County Fairgrounds. She would walk with her children into Harlan to get groceries.
     She enjoyed mowing the lawn and gardening. She loved to be with her grandkids and great-grandkids. She thoroughly enjoyed life and wanted those around her to enjoy life as well. She would spend time tearing up bits of paper for the New Year’s holiday when the three younger kids and the grandkids would walk through Kirkman at midnight tossing the paper into the air and hollering "Happy New Year"!
     Ethel retired in 1974 and was able to stay in her own home until 2003 when she moved into Elm Crest Retirement Home. It was there that she died on Monday, March 7, 2011, having attained the age of one hundred three years, seven months, and three days. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, children: Lester, Margie, Edward, Richard, and Glenn; brother Lester, sisters Nora and Liza, four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
     She is survived by her children Rose and her husband Gene Henderson of Atlantic, Iowa, Sonny Goans and his wife Dixie of Kirkman, Iowa, and Mary Ann Plott of Council Bluffs, Iowa; twenty-four grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; fifteen great-great-grandchildren; other family members and friends.
     Chaplain Thomas Williamson officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Friday, March 11, 2011 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Larry Andersen, Andy Andersen, Arlyn Oman, Jason Goans, Clint Kienast, Aaron Howe, and Gene McNear. Serving as casket bearers were Jeremy Plott, Gail Andersen, Jim Behrens, Al Petersen, Mitch Daniel, David Plott, Jamie Hess, and Chris Goans. Interment was held at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Kirkman, Iowa.

Mary A. Goeser - Age 79
    
Mary Agnes Goeser was born on February 15, 1932 to Arthur and Lillian (Engel) Goeser in Westphalia, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, where she remained a lifelong member.
     She attended grade school through sixth grade at St. Boniface Catholic School in Westphalia before completing her education in Harlan and graduating with the Class of 1950 from Harlan High School. She worked at Farm Bureau for a short time before going to Creighton School of Medicine in Omaha and working there as a secretary for the Dean of Medicine until 1972. She worked at the IRS in Omaha until 1982 when she came back to Harlan to care for her mother. In 1984, she began employment at CDS and stayed until her retirement in 1996.
     Mary was a member of the Omaha Walking Club and liked to travel and hike. She did both out West and Hawaii. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society and a big fan of the Big Red and Coach Tom Osborn.
     In March of 2010, she was admitted to Elm Crest Retirement Center which is where she died on Sunday, November 13, 2011, having attained the age of seventy-nine years, eight months, and twenty-nine days. She was preceded in death by her parents.
     She is survived by her brother Don Goeser and his wife Mildred of Council Bluffs, Iowa; other family members and friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Musician Kate Kohorst accompanied vocalist John Rosman. Serving as casket bearers were Keith Engel, Myron Schaben, Douglas Engel, Dan Engel, Bruce Goeser, and Jack Larsen. Interment was held at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia, Iowa.

Gerald V. Goetz - Age 85
    
Gerald Vitus Goetz was born on December 8, 1925 to Joseph and Antonia (Schechinger) Goetz in rural Westphalia, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia and attended St. Boniface Catholic School.
     On February 9, 1953, he was united in marriage to Theresa Schmitz at St. Boniface. Ten children were born to this union: Theresa, Thomas, Dianna, Mary, Joe, Lisa, John, Robert, Linda, and Jerry.
     Gerald kept busy running the family farm, constructed a house and various farm buildings, rebuilt tractors and ran a gas station. He was an excellent welder and did various projects for his neighbors. He could fix anything and because of his giving spirit and hard-working attitude, he never retired. He and Theresa lived on the family farm east of Irwin, Iowa, for fifty-eight years.
     He enjoyed playing baseball and volunteered for many church activities. He was a dedicated member of the parish and served as President of the parish council.
     Gerald died at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, on Monday, January 24, 2011, having attained the age of eighty-five years, one month, and sixteen days. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Walt and Tony.
     He is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years Theresa Goetz of Irwin, Iowa; children: Theresa and her husband Ron Hansen of Manning, Iowa, Thomas Goetz and his wife Fawn of Eatonville, Washington, Dianna Petersen of Manning, Mary and her husband Bill Bartelson of Earlham, Iowa, Joe Goetz and his wife Kelly of Littleton, Colorado, Lisa and her husband Mark Wilke of Council Bluffs, Iowa, John Goetz of Irwin, Robert Goetz of Littleton, Colorado; Linda and her husband Mike Sousa of Eagle, Colorado, and Jerry Goetz of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; fourteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister Rita and her husband Dick Doren of Corley, Iowa; brother Mike Goetz and his wife Elaine of Westphalia, Iowa; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Joshua Bartelson, Michael Sousa, Jonathan Kenkel, Bill Bartelson, Mark Wilke, Jeff Keller, Michele Hass, and Jason Fry. Interment was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa.

Charles J. Goetzinger - Age 61

    Charles "Chuck" Goetzinger was born on October 16, 1945, to Edward and Agnes (Wageman) Goetzinger in Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa, and remained a lifelong member of that parish. He attended elementary school and graduated from St. Boniface Catholic School in Westphalia.

   On August 28, 1965, he was united in marriage to Jane Goeser at St. Boniface. Four children were born to this union: Gina, Edward, Sheila, and Melissa. Charles and Jane raised their family on a farm outside of Westphalia for thirty years before moving to Westphalia in 2004.

     Chuck enlisted in the United States Army in February of 1966 and served during the Vietnam War. After he was honorably discharged from service in February of 1968, he returned home and began employment at Western Iowa Pork. He then spent many years farming and trucking. Chuck was also employed at G & R Grain and Jim’s Wholesale Meats in Harlan where he remained until his accident.

     Chuck was known as a die-hard New York Yankee fan and also a Nebraska Cornhusker fan. He coached and played in the Western Iowa League for the Westphalia Red Sox. He could be heard announcing Harvest Tournament games and was known to almost everyone as "The Voice of Westphalia".

     He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing - but his favorite past time was spending time with his three grandsons: Austin, Logan, and Gavin.

     Chuck had been admitted to the Alegent Health Immanuel Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, and it was there that he died on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, having attained the age of sixty-one years, seven months, and twenty-seven days. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward.

     Chuck is survived by his wife of nearly forty-two years, Jane Goetzinger of Westphalia; his children: Gina and her husband Matt Tuttle of Clive, Iowa, Edward Goetzinger of Westphalia, Sheila and her husband Bryan Van Veldhuizen of Chula Vista, California, and Melissa and her husband Todd Bruck of Harlan, Iowa; three grandchildren; his mother Agnes Goetzinger of Westphalia; two sisters: Anna Mae and her husband Dale Gross of Harlan and Marilyn and her husband Ron Zimmerman of Underwood, Iowa; two brothers: Bill Goetzinger and his wife Lois and Larry Goetzinger and his wife Julie, all of Westphalia; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, June 15, 2007, with Rev. John Dorton officiating the 11:00 AM ceremony at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Randy Zimmerman, Kyle Gross, David Goetzinger, Greg Goeser, Ronald O’Tool, Josh Goeser, and Ken Keitel. Military Rites were held by the Defiance-Westphalia American Legion Post No. 707 at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia.

Glenn Gold - Age 96
    
Gilbert Glenn Gold, "Glenn" as he was known, was born on March 25, 1914 to Clemence and Elizabeth (Chapman) Gold in Herington, Kansas. His father died of the flu when Glenn was only two years old. A week later, his sister, Ada, also died of the flu.
     He graduated from Herington High School with the Class of 1932. He survived the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and World War II. He was a member of "The Greatest Generation".
     He enjoyed playing sports and was so good at baseball that he became property of the Pittsburgh Pirates before he enlisted in the United States Army. Glenn worked as a diesel mechanic while he was serving in the Army during World War II.
     He met his bride at a Sunday dinner and on August 11, 1945, was married to Dorothy Ebert in Hancock, Iowa. One daughter, Sharon, was born to this union.
     The family moved to Colorado where Glenn worked as a service station manager and then as an oil inspector for the State of Colorado until his retirement in 1981.
     He was an honest, fair, and ethical person often working six days a week. He enjoyed fishing and camping in the mountains and playing and watching football and baseball. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and Rotary International.
     Glenn died on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at Elm Crest Retirement Home in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-six years, eleven months, and eighteen days. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ada, and brothers Loren and Don.
     He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, Dorothy Gold of Harlan, Iowa; daughter Sharon Zimmerman of Aurora, Colorado; granddaughter Wendy Zimmerman also of Aurora; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Melissa Drake officiated the 2:00 PM Graveside Service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Dixie Dell Goodner - Age 85
    
Dixie Dell Donaldson McKeighan Goodner, daughter of Pluma Pauline Menefee and Tip Franklin Donaldson was born on September 4, 1926 in Omaha, Nebraska. She lived in Avoca, Iowa until 1935 and then moved to Tennant. She graduated from Tennant High School in May 1943.
     In 1944, Dixie moved to Omaha and worked as a payroll clerk for Merchants Motor Freight Lines until her marriage on April 5, 1947 to William Rex McKeighan. (William) Rex and Dixie moved with their family to Harlan in 1956. (William) Rex died in a car accident on July, 1970.
     Dixie was married to Rex William Goodner on September 9, 1977 who died on April 30, 1990.
     Dixie worked for Farmers Mutual Cooperative Telephone Company from November of 1968 until February of 1999. Family and friends have been the most important part of Dixie’s life. She enjoyed her garden, cooking and making baked goods for family and friends.
     In addition to her parents, Dixie is preceded in death by her husbands, William Rex McKeighan and Rex William Goodner; her son, Timothy McKeighan; her sister, Mary Lou Donaldson and her brother, Tip Donaldson.
     She is survived by her children: Brenda (McKeighan) and her husband Stanley Peterson of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin; Terry McKeighan and his wife, Nancy (Scott) of Tualatin, Oregon; Laurie (Goodner) and her husband Walt Staiert of Elk Horn, Iowa; eight grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many good friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Kate Kohorst accompanied vocalist John Rosman. Serving as casket bearers were Bruce Guyett, Roger Andersen, Jerry lambert, Paul Kruse, Doug Allen, and Paul Nelson. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests
memorials be made to:
Rainbow Hospice Care, Inc.
147 West Rockwell
Jefferson, WI  53549

Helen E. Goshorn - Age 88

     Helen Elizabeth Goshorn, daughter of Claus and Bertha (Dohrmann) Martens, was born on June 7, 1921, in Shelby, Iowa. She was baptized at St. John’s Church in Persia and was confirmed at United Lutheran Church in Shelby. Helen graduated from Shelby High School with the class of 1940.

     On July 29, 1940, Helen was united in marriage to Orville Goshorn in St Joseph, Missouri. Two children were born to this union: Judyth and Richard. After their wedding, Helen helped Orville on the farm while making a home for her family.

     Helen was a member of the United Lutheran Church in Shelby were she volunteered as a Sunday School teacher and was an active member of Ladies Aid and the chairman of the Altar Guild for many years.

     Helen enjoyed doing ceramics, volunteering for numerous community organizations, and participating in the neighborhood club. Helen also enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the joy of her life. She treasured her memories of taking family vacations to Minnesota to go fishing.

     On October 1, 2001, Helen became a resident of Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa.

     Helen died on Sunday, April 4, 2010, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-eight years, nine months, and twenty-eight days. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Orville; her sisters: Agnes Alstadt, Martha Lissi, and Loretta Jessen; and her brother Marvin Martens.

     She is survived by her children Judy Gilbert of Bethesda, Maryland and Richard Goshorn and his wife Bev of Harlan, Iowa; six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; her brother Robert Martens and his wife Mariann of Walnut, Iowa; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, April 7, 2010, at the United Lutheran Church in Shelby, Iowa, with Rev. Duane Anunson officiating the 10:30 AM service. Interment was held at the Shelby Cemetery with Bill Goshorn, Wilma Best, William Boettger, Ron Greenwood, Pat Jensen, Mildred Bair, Gene Wahling, and Lynda Wahling acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were Adam Goshorn, Elizabeth Gilbert, Alicia Knau, David Gilbert, Darren Goshorn, and Kevin Goshorn.

Delbert J. Graeve - Age 85

     Delbert John Graeve, son of Otto Joseph and Anna (Munchrath) Graeve, was born on January 26, 1924, in rural Defiance, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling, Iowa. After school, Delbert helped his father on the family farm.

     During World War II, Delbert moved to Wyoming to work on airplanes.On January 22, 1948, Delbert was united in marriage to Mary "Mick" Elizabeth Graf at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. After their wedding, Delbert and Mick made their home on a farm five miles north of Earling, where they lived for eighteen years. Eight children were born into this union: Gary, Suzanne, Dave, Mary, Joan, Jeanie, Tim and Karen. In 1963, they purchased a farm between Defiance and Manilla and built a new home in 1974. Delbert and Mick retired from farming in February 1992, and moved to their present home in Harlan.

     Delbert and Mary loved to go dancing, playing cards with friends, and visits from children and grandchildren. In recent years, he loved watching sports on the television. Delbert was an active member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance before moving to Harlan where he became a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. He was a strong activist in the Pro-Life Movement and also a member of the Knights of Columbus Earling Council No. 1741 of Earling, Iowa. Delbert was also a loving father, grandfather, and husband.

     Delbert died on Friday, November 6, 2009, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty-five years, nine months, and eleven days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; his son, Gary; his grandson, Mark Lindstrom; and his siblings: Elmer, Francis, Sr. M. Roland; Betty, Joseph, Fred, Eugene and Dorothy.

     He is survived by his children: Suzanne and her husband Kerry Lindstrom of Omaha, Nebraska; Dave Graeve and his wife Linda of Defiance, Iowa; Mary and her husband Lonny Hargens of Omaha, Nebraska; Joan and her husband Tim Sullivan of De Smet, South Dakota; Jeanie and her husband Neil Ferguson of Omaha, Nebraska; Tim Graeve and his wife Ann of Manilla, Iowa; Karen and her husband Lynn Olson of Manilla, Iowa; twenty-six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister Luella Musche of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, November 11, 2009, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrated the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa, with Kelly Flynn, Jill Classen, Julie Graeve, Becky Graeve, Beth Graeve, Ann Lesch, Libby Miller, Holly Korch, Christie Sullivan, Michelle Graeve, Laura Olson, Katelyn Olson, Jackie Olson, Michaela Hargens, Broden Lesch, and Taylor Ferguson Wade acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: John Graeve, Michael Hargens, Gary Sullivan, Jeff Hargens, Justin Graeve, Paul Sullivan, and Brian Sullivan.

Elva C. Graeve - Age 99
    
Elva Catherine Graeve was born on March 15, 1911, to George and Katherine (Muschitz) Klein on the family farm near Persia, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. The family moved to a farm north of Earling, Iowa, where Elva attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling and was confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.
     She was united in marriage to Chris Graeve on February 3, 1932 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. Five children were born to this union: Joseph, Jean, Gerald, Melvin, and Glenn. After their marriage, they lived on Chris’s father’s farm until 1947 when they bought their own farm north of Earling.
     After her children were older, she worked for a few years at Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling. In 1977, Elva and Chris retired and built a new home in Earling.
     She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the Altar Society, and a past member of the Catholic Daughters Court St. Katherine No. 266, 3rd order of St. Francis, and the Earling quilters.
     She loved her family and her greatest joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She made quilts and afghans for all the new babies in the family. She loved gardening, sewing, baking, playing, cards, and visiting friends.
     On November 3, 2005, Elva became a resident of Little Flower Haven in Earling and lived there until her death on Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa. She had attained the age of ninety-nine years and six months. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Chris, an infant son Glenn, and her brothers: Leo, Alfred, Ray, Alfons, Harold, and Lavern.
     She is survived by her children: Joe Graeve and his wife Gloria of Oceanside, California, Jean her husband John Assmann of Earling, Iowa, Melvin Graeve of Earling, and Gerald Graeve and his wife Kathy of Omaha, Nebraska; eleven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; sister Maurine Lehan of Gretna, Nebraska; sister-in-law Lucine Klein of Harlan, Iowa; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 10:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Shawn Graeve, Allan Assman, Shane Graeve, Pat Graeve, Trent Owens, and Travis Owens. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.

Leo F. Graeve - Age 78
    
Leo Francis Graeve was born on February 29, 1932, to Henry and Rose (Mueller) Graeve in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. After his graduation from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army.
     He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in February of 1955, returning home to work at Standard Oil.
     He was united in marriage to Joanne Shields at St. Joseph’s. Eight children were born to this union: LuAnn, Bernie, Pat, Larry, Jeff, Brian, Sam, and Chad.
     Leo loved the kids and drove the school bus. He was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and served on the parish council. He was a member of the Earling American Legion Post No. 615 and served as Fire Chief of the Earling Volunteer Fire Department.
     He was an Independent Oil Jobber for Amoco Oil Company. An accident that pinned him between two trucks forced his retirement in 1984. He enjoyed playing golf with family and friends. A sense of humor was important to him. He was known as the kindest man in Earling.
     Leo died on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at Elm Crest Retirement Home having attained the age of seventy-eight years, ten months, and twenty-eight days. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Alfons, William, Raymond, Harry, and Charles, and sisters: Rita, Margaret, and Esther.
     He is survived by his wife Joanne Graeve of Harlan, Iowa; children: LuAnn Brown of Castle Rock, Colorado, Bernie Graeve of Memphis, Tennessee, Pat Graeve and his wife Loretta of Terrebon, Oregon, Larry Graeve and his wife Kathy of Ankeny, Jeff Graeve and his wife Jeanie of Ankeny, Iowa, Brian Graeve and his wife Annette of Ankeny, Sam Graeve and his wife Kathy of Audubon, Iowa, and Chad Graeve and his wife Kimberly of Earling, Iowa; nineteen grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters: Helen Petsche of Harlan, Veronica Hodapp of Spirit Lake, Iowa, Irene Arkfeld of Panama, Iowa, Mary Agnes and her husband Stanley Korducki of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Ruth and her husband Ray Korducki; brothers: Leonard Graeve and his wife Joyce of Harlan, Al Graeve and his wife Mick of Earling, Jim Graeve and his wife Mary Ann of St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Larry Graeve and his wife Colleen of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin; other family members and many friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 2:00 PM Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, January 28, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Holly Brazell, Trisha Brown, Taylor Brown, Aaryn Graeve, David Graeve, Jackson Graeve, Jake Graeve, and Katie Graeve. Serving as casket bearers were Mark Graeve, Rachel Graeve, Jessica Graeve, Ross Brown, Alex Graeve, and Tom Graeve. Military Rites were performed at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling by Earling American Legion Post No. 615.

Abbie M. Graham - Age 88

     Abbie Marie Graham was born on September 15, 1921 in Verdel, Nebraska to Warren and Elizabeth (Hans) Hunt. Her parents took care of many sick children and themselves both died as a result of a tuberculosis outbreak while Abbie was young. After the death of her parents, Abbie was adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle, Ada and Julius Erickson. She attended grade school in Verdigre, Nebraska, and graduated from Verdel High School with the Class of 1939.

     On June 8, 1943, Abbie was united in marriage to David Graham in Cedar County, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union: Mylene, Ronda, and Alan.

     While the children were growing, Abbie helped her husband on the farm near Oakland, Iowa, and later near Elk Horn, Iowa. In 1979, they purchased a home in Walnut, Iowa, where she worked for the Super 8 Motel.

     After retiring from the motel, she spent time enjoying her garden, her numerous house plants, and spent many hours embroidering quilt blocks for her grandchildren. She would also solve crossword puzzles on a daily basis.

     Abbie was a member of the Oakland Congregational Church and Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Walnut. She was also a member of the Legion Auxiliary in Walnut for thirty years.

     In May of 2008, she moved to the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center. It was there that she died on Thursday, March 4, 2010, having attained the age of eighty-eight years, five months, and seventeen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband David, and a granddaughter, Shari.

     She is survived by her children: Mylene and her husband Ken Riley of Walnut, Iowa, Ronda Larimore of Boone, Iowa, and Alan Graham and his wife Janet of Avoca, Iowa; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Keith Graham and his wife Sharon of Coleridge, Nebraska, sister-in-law Mary Margaraet "Maggie" DeVereaux and her husband Ray of Denver, Colorado, other family members and friends.

     Rev. Merlene Ostebee conducted the 10:00 AM Memorial Service at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Walnut, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Ryan Graham, Aaron Holtz, Jeremiah Tompson, and Stuart Weihler. Rev. Gary Kimm officiated the 3:30 PM interment at Coleridge City Cemetery in Coleridge, Nebraska.

David Graham - Age 86

     David Lewis Graham was born on April 20, 1923, to Frank and Myrtle (Lewis) Graham in Arriba, Colorado. Other children born into the Graham family were: Donald, Mary Margaret, George, and Keith.

     Shortly after he was born, David and his family moved to Coleridge, Nebraska where David was baptized at Pilgrim Congregational Church and attended country school at Lincoln District 37.

     After completing school, David worked on the family farm before enlisting in the United States Navy where he served his country during World War II. David worked in the postal department on his ship and also spent some of his time in Shanghai, China.

     On June 8, 1943, he was united in marriage to Abbie Marie Ericksen in Cedar County, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union: Mylene, Ronda, and Alan. In 1957, David and Abbie moved to Oakland, Iowa, where they farmed. They also farmed near Elk Horn, Iowa for several years before they purchased their home in Walnut in 1979. While in Walnut, David worked for a short time putting up farm buildings and in the early 1980's, he went to work for JP Industries, a bearing manufacturing plant in Atlantic, Iowa. David retired from JP Industries in 1997.

     David enjoyed anything to do with horses, riding them and having teams of them. At Walnut’s Antique Festival, David used his team and wagon to give rides to visitors around town. He was the most comfortable when he was wearing his bib overalls and always looked forward to attending horse sales in St. Joseph and Jamesport, Missouri. David never met a stranger and always had a story to tell.

     He was a member of Oakland Congregational Church, and Our Savior Lutheran Church in Walnut, Iowa. David belonged to the AmVets and the American Legion Post No. 422 in Walnut.

     David became a resident of the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in December of 2008 and it was there that he died on Thursday, May 21, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-six years, one month, and one day. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Donald and George, and his granddaughter Shari.

     He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years Abbie Graham of Avoca, Iowa; his children: Mylene and her husband Ken Riley of Walnut, Iowa, Ronda Larimore of Boone, Iowa, and Alan Graham and his wife Janet of Avoca, Iowa; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his sister Mary Margaret "Maggie" and her husband Ray DeVereaux of Denver, Colorado, brother Keith Graham and his wife Sharon of Coleridge, Nebraska; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

     Vicar Merlene Ostebee led the 10:30 AM Memorial Service on Tuesday, May 26, 2009 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Walnut, Iowa. The Walnut American Legion Post No. 422 performed Military Rites. Honorary casket bearers were Paul Riley, Jim McDermott, Neal Schirm, Bill Lillard, Rich Behrend, Bruce Nelson, Lloyd Nelson, Jerry Hayes, and Dave Blum. The burial and military rites were held on Friday, May 29, 2009, with Rev. Gary Kimm performing the 1:00 PM service. The Coleridge American Legion Post No. 114 performed military rites at Coleridge Cemetery in Coleridge, Nebraska.

Scott David Graham - Age 56

    Scott David Graham was born on August 15, 1950 in Omaha, Nebraska. He was the son of Marshall and Joyce (Wilkens) Graham and was one of three children in the family. At the age of three, he was struck with polio but was able to overcome his disability and led a very productive life. He attended school at Franklin Elementary and Omaha Central High School and graduated with the class of 1968. While in high school he was a member of the Reserve Officers Training Corp.

    Scott was united in marriage to Diosdada Tomoric on July 2, 1990 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. They are the parents of two daughters, Arrianne and Alexa. The family has lived in the Shelby, Iowa area since 1990.

    Scott was employed by Creighton University in the Holter Lab for fifteen years reading tapes created by EKG monitors. He then worked as a technical support person for the Sprint Telephone Company. In recent years, Scott has worked part time at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa where he also scanned tapes created from the Holter monitors. He was very meticulous about the details of his work. Scott was a very giving person all his life, and even at death he was a tissue donor. He also was very mechanical and as a hobby he built his own Harley three-wheeler and drove it to California and Arkansas.

   Scott died on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa. He had attained the age of fifty six years, eleven months and twenty three days. He is preceded in death by his parents.

   He is survived by his wife, Diosdada and their daughters, Arrianne and Alexa, all of Shelby, Iowa; his brother, Gary Graham and his wife Cheryl of Omaha, Nebraska; his sister, Robyn O'Driscoll and her husband Ron of Buffalo, Wyoming; nieces and nephews: Mikeal Loneman and her husband Jerry of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, Jeff Beasley of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Katie Graham and Christopher Graham, both of Omaha, Nebraska; great nieces and nephews: Ashley, Brianna, Amanda, Sydney and Andre'; other relatives and many friends.

   Funeral Services were held on Friday, August 10, 2007 at 10:30 AM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Father John Frost as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Gary Graham, Jeff Beasley, Jerry Lomema, Ron O’Driscoll, John Bolton and Craig Botter.


Rhoda V. Graves - Age 92

     Rhoda Velma Graves was born on February 9, 1916, the second child in a family of five born to Chris and Emma (Rasmussen) Petersen of Jacksonville, Iowa. She attended country school and then helped care for her mother until her death in 1930. After graduating from Harlan High School, she took normal training and taught school for two years before her marriage to Jack Graves on June 2, 1937. Five children were born to this union: Jane, Charles, George, Eugene, and Gary.

     In their youth, they farmed on the Graves’ family farm, which has been in the family for over 120 years. They were active in 4-H and Farm Bureau work. Rhoda worked at the Holiday Buffet, the Baptist Memorial Home, and was co-owner of the A & W Drive In.

     Rhoda was a member of the Harlan Garden Club, Harlan Merit Mothers, Myrtue Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Elm Crest Auxiliary, and has been a youth leader for 4-H. Rhoda and Jack were honored as Farm Family of the Week by WOW-TV. Rhoda was honored as a Place in the Sun recipient by KMA radio, was Mother of the Year for Shelby County in 1973, and was placed in the Shelby County Fair Hall of Fame in 1989.

     Rhoda was baptized in the Danish Baptist Church in Harlan in 1925 and was a charter member of the First Baptist Church where she was a youth leader, taught Sunday School Classes and sponsored BYF, served in the kitchen, and made hundreds of quilts for mission work. She was always kind and a good cook and hostess.

     Rhoda died on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at Elm Crest Retirement Home in Harlan, having attained the age of ninety-two years, four months, and seventeen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jack, her sisters Eletha and Berdine and her brother Roland.

     She is survived by her daughter Jane and her husband Jim Jensen of Harlan, Iowa; her sons Charles Graves and his wife Brenda of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, George Graves and his wife Judy of Des Moines, Iowa, Eugene "Fred" Graves and his wife Bev of Van Meter, Iowa, and Gary Graves and his wife Maria of Littleton, Massachusetts; eleven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; her sister Delta Wiuff of Harlan; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Sunday, June 29, 2008 at the First Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Gundar Lamberts officiated the 1:30 PM service and Janeen Jensen was the soloist. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Jeff Lehman, Kurt Gravley, Mark Graves, John Jensen, Jerry Jensen, and Scott Graves serving as casket bearers.


Daniel D. Greer - Age 49

     Daniel Dale Greer, son of Eugene Charles and Diana Leona (Nelson) Greer, was born on June 14, 1958, in Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Harlan. Dan attended school at Harlan Community Schools and graduated with the class of 1976. After high school, Dan received his associates degree in electronics from Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, Iowa and then his bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

     On August 12, 1984, Dan was united in marriage to Marian Gaul at the United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa. Two children were born to this union: Ben and Lindsey. Dan spent his working life in the computer technology industry for various companies throughout the Omaha and Southwest Iowa area. His passion for computers could be seen throughout his house. There was a computer networked in almost every room where he could track his ebay sales and purchases and enjoyed hours of gaming with his kids. Dan also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and family bicycle trips on bike trails around southwest Iowa as well as playing tennis, golf and racquet ball.

     In 1998, Dan and Marian became active in the First Assembly of God Church in Harlan. It was here that Dan pursued another of his passions, music, where he played the bass guitar with the North Gate Praise Team.

     Daniel died at his home outside of Harlan on April 24, 2008, having attained the age of forty-nine years, ten months and ten days. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Marian Greer of Harlan; his children: Ben and Lindsey Greer of Harlan; his sister Suzanne and her husband Mike Rasmussen of Kirkman, Iowa; his brothers: Gary Greer and his wife Susan of Harlan and David Greer and his wife Jodi of Ft. Collins, Colorado; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

     A funeral service was held on Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at the First Assembly of God Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Pastor Al Hazelton officiating the 11:00 AM service. Casket bearers were Craig Bieker, Matthew Glenn, Aaron Gaul, Kelly Lefeber, Scott Rasmussen, and Kelly Greer. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.


Alfred Joseph Greiner - Age 89

     Alfred Joseph Greiner, son of Nick and Mary (Bauer) Greiner, was born on December 8, 1917 on a farm near Portsmouth, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth and attended school through the eighth grade at Pleasant Ridge Country School.

     In 1942, Alfred joined the United States Army as a Tractor Mechanic. He served his country during World War II and fought in Rome, southern France, and central Europe. He was honorably discharged on October 2, 1945. During his time in the military, Alfred earned numerous awards including: Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with one Silver Battle Star, four Overseas Service Bars, and one Service Stripe.

     After his discharge, Alfred began working in construction for the Peter Kiewit Company. He held the position of foreman and traveled to many different countries during his thirty five years with the company. Although he never fully retired, Alfred  could often be found helping his brothers with farming and carpentry work.
          Alfred died on Saturday, September 22, 2007, at Northcrest Care and Rehabilitation in Council Bluffs, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-nine years, nine months, and fourteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Alvin, John, Helen Plambeck, Henry, and an infant brother.

     Alfred is survived by three sisters: Anna Cordoza, Mildred Weihs, and Dorothy Ross all of Council Bluffs, Iowa; one brother Lawrence Greiner and his wife Belva of Silver City, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, September 25, 2007, with Father Bob Hoefler celebrating the 11:00 AM service at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. Serving as casket bearers were Leon Ross, Bill Plambeck, Ron Weihs, David Greiner, Randy Greiner, and Mike Greiner. Military Rites were held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa, by the Portsmouth American Legion Post No. 547.


Leonard P. Greiner

     Leonard Peter Greiner was born on March 26, 1918, one of six children to John and Mary (Stiver) Greiner on the family farm near Panama, Iowa. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic Schools for elementary and high school in Panama, graduating with the Class of 1936, the same year he was a member of the state championship basketball team.

     After graduation, Leonard farmed with his father on the family farm where he was born and raised. In 1946, Leonard entered the United States Army and served in occupied Japan. One year later, he was honorably discharged and returned home, moving to Harlan and working at Greiner’s Bar and Café for several years with his brother Larry.

     On November 14, 1949, Leonard was united in marriage to Marie Elizabeth Gunsolley in Red Oak, Iowa. Five children were born to this union: Ken, David, Beccy, Mary, and Jennifer.

     In 1959, he began employment at Nishna Botna Valley REC as a materials clerk. Leonard and Marie cleaned at the Harlan National Bank for twenty years together. In April of 1983, Leonard retired after twenty-four years of service to Nishna Botna Valley REC.

     The couple lived in Harlan throughout their entire married life. Leonard was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church for many years. He loved puttering in his garage and working in his yard and had one of the most beautiful lawns in the neighborhood to show for it. But what he loved the most was his family and spending time with his grandchildren.

     Leonard became a resident of Elm Crest Retirement Community in July of 2004 and it was there that he died on Thursday, February 7, 2008, having attained the age of eighty-nine years, ten months, and twelve days. He was preceded in death by one son David Greiner, his parents, an infant brother, Donald, his brothers Lawrence, Gerald, and Bob, and his sister Margaret Schiltz.

     Leonard is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Marie Greiner of Harlan; his children: Ken Greiner of Harlan, Beccy Holle of Harlan, Mary and her husband Phil Schneider of Lenexa, Kansas, and Jennifer and her husband Scott Ashe of Overland Park, Kansas; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

     Graveside services were held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 9, 2008, at the Harlan Cemetery with Pastor Al Hazelton officiating.

Cletis W. Gress - Age 77

     Cletis Wayne Gress was born on April 19, 1932, in Hancock, Iowa, to Austin and Margery (Schmidt) Gress. He was baptized and confirmed at Hancock Methodist Church. He attended Hancock Schools and graduated with the Class of 1950.

     He was united in marriage to DeMaris Faubel on June 15, 1958 in Wisner, Nebraska. Three sons were born to this union: Mark, Bruce, and Jeff.

     Cletis entered into the United States Navy on September 12, 1951. He received the National Defense Service Medal for his service during the Korean War. He was discharged on September 6, 1955 and returned to Iowa.

     In 1961, he became the owner of Gress Locker in Hancock and operated it for fifty years with the help of his family.

     Cletis enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and riding horses. He enjoyed playing with the grandkids, especially games like bean bag toss, botche ball, and croquet. He was a member of the Nishna Valley Conservation Club and accepted the 2009 Wildlife Conservation Award. He was also a volunteer fireman and a city council member in Hancock for many years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #335 A.F. for forty-six years.

     Cletis died on Thursday, February 18, 2010, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-seven years, nine months, and thirty days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Wilbur Gress, and his sisters: Dorothy Trulson, Wilma Rader, and Leota Pash.

     He is survived by his wife of fifty-one years Dee Gress of Hancock, Iowa; sons: Mark Gress and his wife Kim of Avoca, Iowa, Bruce Gress and his wife Peggy of Riverton, Wyoming, and Jeff Gress and his wife Nancy of Hancock; grandsons: Jonathan, David, Brian, Travis, Will, Jon, and Joe; two great-grandchildren; sisters Janice Taylor of Oakland, Iowa and Norma Hester of Sheridan, Arkansas; other family members and many friends.

     Pastor Melissa Drake officiated the 2:00 PM funeral service on Monday, February 22, 2010 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa. Listed as honorary casket bearers were Robert Jacobsen, Carl Brandenburg, Dennis Jacobsen, Frank McCann, Don Scheffler, Kenneth martin, Pete Wallrich, Ralph Pierce, Art Rieber, John Butler, Don Carter, and Phil Byrne. Serving as casket bearers were David Gress, Jonathan Gress, Brian Gress, Jim Feller, Dennis Taylor, Scott Feller, Will Gress, and Kevin Pash. Military Rites were conducted by the American Legion Post No. 720 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Russell L. Griggs - Age 93

     Russell Lowell Griggs was born on November 18, 1914 near Washington, Iowa. He was one of five children born to Dewitt and Annie (Weaver) Griggs. He attended school in Washington and graduated from high school in 1932. After graduation he began his lifelong career as a beekeeper, collecting and selling honey.

     Russell was united in marriage to Mary McMillen on February 15, 1938 at the Methodist Church in Washington, Iowa. They were the parents of three children: Randall, Janet and James. Russell and Mary moved to Hancock, Iowa in 1938. They processed Griggs Honey at the Hancock Honey House on Main Street and had a retail honey stand in front of their home in Hancock until they retired in 1977. Russell served as the Mayor of Hancock for two terms. He also worked part time on bridge construction. After retiring they spent their winters in Florida starting in 1978. Russell enjoyed playing cards, especially pinochle. They were members of a camping club and also the Hancock United Methodist Church. Russell and Mary moved to Ellisville, Missouri in 2004.

     Russell died on Sunday, November 16, 2008 at St. Luke’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. He had attained the age of ninety-three years, eleven months and twenty-nine days. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son James; his brothers, Armour and Orville Griggs and by his sister, Oneita Fisher.

     Russell is survived by his wife Mary of Ellisville, Missouri; son Randall and his wife Jeanie of Louisville, Kentucky; daughter Janet Sloey and her husband A. Michael of Manchester, Missouri; nine grandchildren; five great grandchildren with two on the way; a brother Duane Griggs and his wife Ruth Ann of Burlington, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 1:30 PM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Melissa Drake as the clergy. Serving as Honorary bearers were Bob Jacobsen, Cletus Gress and Wylie King with Steve Guyer, Don Scheffler, Kenneth Martin, Lynn Grobe, Lance Guyer and Scott Griggs as active bearers. Interment was held in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Alice J. Grimsley - Age 83

     Alice Jean Grimsley was born on February 18, 1927 in Dunkerton Iowa. She was the fourth of eight children born to William and Clarice (Hasbrouck) Koobs. She was raised in Grundy Center, Iowa, where she graduated from Grundy Center High School in 1945. She was planning to attend her 65th Class Reunion this July.

     On September 27, 1947, Alice was united in marriage to Leonard Wise Grimsley in Arlington, Virginia, where Leonard was attending law school at George Washington University. They returned to Iowa in 1948 to begin and raise their family. Six children were born to this union: Gene, Claudia, Debbie, Mark, Tim and Ruthanne.

     After early years in the Marshalltown, Grundy Center and Waterloo areas, Alice and Leonard relocated to Harlan, Iowa in 1958. They primarily chose Harlan because of the Bethel Baptist Church where Alice remained a member from 1958 until the day she died. She served the church in various capacities: Janitor, Clerk, Pianist and her favorite, Organist of the beautiful pipe organ. Alice loved her Lord, her family, her church and her country very much. She was a matriarch not only to her six children, but to numerous neighborhood kids as well.

     Alice had several occupations after her children were in school. She was a Ward Clerk at the hospital, where she ran a very taut ship. She was later a janitor at Concerned Inc. She helped people in need with rides to doctor appointments or airport pickups. She was a care giver for eighteen years to her husband after a car accident left him paralyzed. She continued care giving to numerous others following Leonard’s death in 1986. But Alice was best known for her ironing. She ironed for many people over the years and was considered the best around by most.

     Alice enjoyed ceramics in her early married life and later, her gardening and flowers. She was most known for her corner of beautiful moss roses. She loved playing the piano and the organ - hymns and patriotic songs were the favorites. Alice was a patriot, she loved the military and all it stood for.

     Alice was a lifelong volunteer. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. She was a member of the Myrtue Memorial Auxiliary and worked the hospital gift shop for many years. She was a courier for the Myrtue Memorial Hospital lab and the American Red Cross.

     Alice died on Friday, May 28, 2010 at the Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan having attained the age of eighty-three years, three months and ten days. In addition to her parents, Alice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard; her brother Jerry Koobs; sisters, Maxine Koobs Sietsema and Margaret Koobs Strehle; brothers in law, Harvey Sietsema, Lester Wood and Phillip Strehle, her great-grandson Jason Carlisle and her son-in-law Gregory Carlisle.

     She is survived by her children: Gene Grimsley and his wife Shelly of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Claudia Carlisle of Phoenix, Arizona, Deborah and her husband Louie Chavez of Farmington, New Mexico, Mark Grimsley, of Omaha, Nebraska, Timothy Grimsley and Nancy of Avoca, Iowa and Ruthanne Grimsley of Harlan; her sister Patti Wood of Arlington, Virginia; her sister-in-law, Darlene Koobs of Dike, Iowa; her brothers, Claire Koobs and his wife Blanche of Grundy Center, Iowa, Roger Koobs and his wife Heidi of Tucson, Arizona and Jack Koobs and his wife Jean of Raleigh, North Carolina; her grandchildren Virginia and her husband Rick Bold, Scott Grimsley and his wife Traci, Christen and her husband Larry Stiverson, Karen LaRoche, Sarah Chavez; Richard Armell and his wife Cara and Julie Mikels; fifteen great grandchildren, other relatives and many many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Sunday, May 30, 2010, at Bethel Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Robert Wullschleger officiating the 2:00 PM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery with Gail Koobs, Kendell Strehle, Scott Grimsley, Joshua Carlisle, Louis Chavez, Jay Christensen, Nancy Kay Gress, and Debbie Nowatzke serving as casket bearers.

Agnes Gronborg - Age 94

     Agnes Christine Gronborg was born on February 21, 1915 in rural Shelby County to L. Chris and Anna (Christiansen) Hansen. She attended the Avoca schools and played basketball when the girls won the 1931 State Basketball Championship. She was the valedictorian of the graduating Class of 1932. Agnes continued her education at the American Institute of Business in Des Moines, Iowa, and went to work in the Iowa-Nebraska Light and Power district office in Avoca.

     On June 2, 1940, Agnes was united in marriage to Lawrence Gronborg at the English Lutheran Church in Avoca. Three children were born to this union: Ann, Jean, and Lynn. In addition to running the household and taking care of her children, Agnes helped her husband with the farming operation. They were active in soil and water conservation.

     Agnes was a very active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca. Once they retired from farming, they traveled to every state in the union as well as Mexico, Canada, Switzerland, and several of the islands in the Caribbean.

     She moved to Peace Haven Retirement Home in 1997. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was excited to watch her granddaughter play in the state basketball tournament seventy years after she had done the same thing.

     Agnes became a resident of the Avoca Assisted Living in November of 2003 and moved to the Nursing and Rehab Center in May of 2008. It was there that she died on Monday, February 1, 2010, having attained the age of ninety-four years, eleven months, and eleven days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lawrence, great-granddaughter Ashley, sister Bernice, brother Harold, brother-in-law Wilbert Jacobsen, and sister-in-law Elaine Hansen.

     She is survived by her daughters: Ann and her husband Bill Roof of Avoca, Iowa and Jean and her husband Malcolm Clarrissimeaux of Dallas, Texas; son Lynn Gronborg and his wife Callie of Avoca, Iowa; five grandchildren: Neil Roof and his significant other Amanda Young, Elizabeth and her husband Gavin Graham, Angela and her husband Michael Harder, Kristina and her husband Todd Williams and Sarah Gronborg; five great-grandchildren: Dustin Roof, Kaitlyn, Kourtney, and Kristen Graham, and Alexandria Harder; sister Irma and her husband Laverne Kock of Avoca, Iowa; other family members and friends.

     Pastor Dennis Reich officiated the 10:00 AM funeral service on Friday, February 5, 2010 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Angela Harder, Donovon Sievers, Kristina Williams, Beth Graham, and Sarah Gronborg. Serving as casket bearers were Neil Roof, Dustin Roof, Todd Williams, Mike Harder, D.O., Clark McGrath, John Nielsen, and Gavin Graham. Interment was held at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca.

Dion Allan Grooms - 52
     Dion Allan Grooms, son of Wayne and Anita (McMaster) Grooms, was born on January 29, 1959 in Harlan, Iowa. Dion grew up in Avoca, Iowa and attended Avo-Ha Community Schools graduating with the class of 1977. While in high school, Dion was a member of the 1974 1A Iowa state championship football team.
     After high school, Dion began working at the Oakland Beef Plant in Oakland, Iowa and later at Oakland foods, Bartlett and was currently working maintenance at Wings of America in Avoca. Dion later made his home in Walnut where he was a member of the Walnut Volunteer Fire Department.
      He coached various little league teams and especially liked coaching his girls. He also enjoyed bowling and playing in the local slow pitch softball league. Dion would do anything for anybody and was a very proud grandfather.
     Dion died on September 15, 2011 at the Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa having attained the age of fifty-two years, seven months and seventeen days. He was preceded in death by his parents.
     Dion is survived by his daughters: Ashley and her husband Brian Williams of the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska and Lacey Grooms of Walnut, Iowa; his granddaughter, Symbree Williams; his sisters and brother: Jolene and her husband Dean Henning of Clear Lake, Minnesota; Tami and her husband Jeff Harman of Neola, Iowa and Allan Grooms and his wife Kerree of Walnut; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
     Pastor Steve Lewis and Pastor David Krueger officiated the 10:00 AM funeral service on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Ryan Troll, Danny Petersen, Max Harman, Dylan Hargens, Shane Henning, Jesse Harman, Garrett Grooms, Brian Williams, and Adam Harman. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Blum, Randy Mogensen, Jeff Paulsen, Ron Engman, Mike Schueman, and Wayne Allen. Interment was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Connie K. Gross - Age 62

     Connie "Toots" K. Gross, daughter of Edward Clark and Elaine (Weaver) Clark, was born on January 3, 1947, in Shenandoah, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Imogene, Iowa, where she remained a member until graduating from Farragut High School with the class of 1965. After graduation, Connie continued her education at Business College in Omaha, Nebraska. While attending school, Connie worked as a bookkeeper at her mother’s hair salon in Omaha.

     On November 16, 1968, Connie was united in marriage to Melvin Gross at St. Robert Bellermine Catholic Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union: Stacen, Stephen and Annessa. After their wedding, Connie and Melvin made their home outside of Earling where they farmed.

     Connie worked in customer service at Communications Data Services Inc. in Harlan, Iowa, until her retirement in 2002. When Connie wasn’t busy working, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially her friends at the aquatic center in Denison, her ladies from the Birthday Club and her fellow Red Hatters.

     Connie was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling where she was active in the Altar Society.

     Connie died on Sunday, December 27, 2009, at University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of sixty-two years, eleven months, and twenty-four days. She is preceded in death by her mother and father Edward Clark and Elaine (Clark) LaBore and her husband Melvin.

     She is survived by her son Stacen Gross and his wife Molly and four grandchildren: Tyler, Evan, Jordan, and Meg of Bellevue, Nebraska; son Stephen Gross and his fiancé Angie Rust of Harlan, Iowa; her daughter Annessa Gross and fiancé Mike Zehner and three grandchildren: Isabella, Avery and Kennedy of Woodbine, Iowa; her brother Tom Clark and his wife Marcia of Arvada, Colorado; her sister Madonna and her husband Luther Henson of Crescent, Iowa; her adopted father, Everett LaBore and his wife Lillian of Omaha, Nebraska; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, with Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrating the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, with Evan Gross, Jordan Gross, and Avery Zehner acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Tim Gorss, Brendan Gross, Greg Sextro, Kelly Henson, Roger Zehner, Phil Graeve, Robert Jensen, and Tyler Gross.

Dolores Gross - Age 94
    
Dolores Marie Elizabeth Gross, the oldest daughter of August Sr. and Mathilda (Kohls) Schnuettgen, was born on May 11, 1917 on her parents farm near Buck Grove, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Buck Grove and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. She attended country school until second grade when her parents moved to a farm west of Defiance and then attended St. Paul’s Catholic School in Defiance until the eighth grade. Because Dolores was needed at home, she was unable to go on to high school.
     Dolores was united in marriage to Norbert Gross on January 4, 1938 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance by Father Roseman. To this union four sons and four daughters were born. After their marriage, Dolores and Norbert made their home south of Buck Grove in an area called "Pretty Prairie" until 1941 when they moved south of Earling, Iowa. In 1945, they bought a farm north of Defiance where they made their home until the death of Norbert in 1997. In September of 1999, Dolores then moved to her home in Harlan, Iowa, and became a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.
     Dolores was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Court No. 266 of Earling and a member of the St. Peter’s Catholic Church Alter and Rosary Society of Defiance. She was an active member in her community and served as president of the Silver tops Senior Citizen club of Defiance and was an active 4-H leader of the Defiance Peppie-pals for four years. Dolores was a homemaker and loved gardening, canning, raising chickens, crocheting, and quilting. She was devoted to her faith, family, and friends. Dolores was with her family constantly when they were young and cared for her parents when they were elderly.
     Dolores died on September 19, 2011 at Elm Crest Retirement Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-four years, four months, and eight days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Norbert, sons Samuel and Thomas, sister Donna Schmitz, and brothers Othmar, August, Jr., John, and Eugene Schnuettgen.
     She is survived by her children: Jim Gross and his wife Norma of Manilla, Iowa, Marcelleen and her husband Fred Youngman of Dale, Texas, Mary Jane Brody of Omaha, Nebraska, Randy Gross and his wife Virginia of Roscoe, Illinois, Virginia and her husband Paul Kruse of Harlan, Iowa, and Lorie and her husband Scott Bandow of Manilla, Iowa; twenty-three grandchildren; twenty-eight great-grandchildren; sisters Mary McCaffery of Denison, Iowa, Marie Ullrich of Ukiah, California, Rita and her husband Merle Langenfeld of Carroll, Iowa, and Betty and her husband Joe Astuto of Omaha; sisters-in-law Rose Schnuettgen of Avoca, Iowa, Mary Schnuettgen of Elkhorn, Nebraska, and Linda Schnuettgen of Denison; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Ken Gross celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial with concelebrants Rev. Don Bruck and Rev. Chris Fontanini on Thursday, September 22, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Steven Youngman, David Youngman, Paul Youngman, Cameron Gross, Ethan Bandow, Shawn Brody, Zack Bandow, Doug Gross, Steve Gross, Bruce Gross, Rick Gross, and John Brody. Interment was held at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance, Iowa.

Donald Marcus Gross - Age 57
     Donald Marcus Gross, the son of Marcus and Naomi Schmitz Gross was born in Harlan, Iowa on March 10, 1953. The Gross family lived in the Earling and Defiance, Iowa areas where Donald started school in Earling and attended grade school in Defiance. He then attended high school in Harlan, graduating with the class of 1971. During high school, and after, Donald worked with his father in his auto repair shop in Defiance.
     On August 25, 1972, Donald entered the United States army and served over seas in Germany during the Vietnam Conflict. After receiving his honorable discharge from the Army on August 19, 1975, he worked for Johnson Motors in Denison, Iowa for a short time. He was united in marriage to Sarah Funk in Seattle, Washington on August 24, 1991 and one son Collin was born to this union. Donald fixed and restored older classic cars in Colorado and Seattle, Washington for several years. He named one of his repair shops Aardvark Repair just so he could be listed first in the phone book. During this time, he developed his love for the mountains and enjoyed bicycle trips. Because he was in excellent physical shape he would sometimes do two hundred mile trips in a single day. He was a free spirit and would create his own travel logs. He enjoyed his large collection of music, loving to sing along with many of his classic rock favorites.
     He was injured on one of his biking trips, and could not fully recover so he became a resident of the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa in 2000. While living in the Veteran’s Home, he developed leather working skills and was proud of the items that he made. He was present at Mass every Thursday, and if he had a visitor he would excuse himself so he could attend.
     Donald died unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa while he was being treated for an injury he received at his home. He had attained the age of fifty-seven years, eight months and twenty days.
     Survivors include his son, Collin Gross, of Seattle, Washington; his parents, Marcus and Naomi Gross, Sr. of Harlan, Iowa; siblings: Patrick Gross and his wife Maggie of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Sharon and her husband Dr. Henri Duyzend of Seattle; Douglas Gross and his wife Eileen of Des Moines, Iowa; Terry Gross and his wife Luanne of Lakewood Colorado; Bill Gross and his wife Kris of Indianola, Iowa; Gene Gross of Harlan; Nancy and her husband Roger Karnofski of Longview, Washington; Marcus Gross, Jr., and his wife Kris of Harlan and Jack Gross and his wife Lourdes of Ramstein Air Base, Germany; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Rev. Kenneth Gross and concelebrated by Rev. Chris Fontanini at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, December 4, 2010 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Military Rites were conducted at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery in Defiance by the Westphalia and Defiance American Legion Post No. 707 with Donald’s brothers, Pat, Douglas, Terry, Bill, Gene, Marcus and Jack serving as casket bearers.

Marcus F. Gross, Sr. - Age 95
    
Marcus Frank Gross, Sr. was born on June 2, 1916 to Joseph and Mary (Engel) Gross in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. He attended grade school and high school at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling.
     He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1942. He served during World War II and in 1945, was honorably discharged from military service.
     Marcus attended a dance in Defiance and saw Naomi Schmitz for the first time wearing a beautiful red sweater. He later moved to California, but wrote to her often and proposed in a letter. A ring followed in the mail. They were married on September 10, 1947 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa. Ten children were born to this union: Patrick, Sharon, Donald, Douglas, Terry, Bill, Gene, Nancy, Marcus Jr., and Jack.
     While living in Omaha, Marcus went to mechanic school. In1951, they moved to Defiance where he owned and operated Gross Auto Service. In 1954, the family moved to a farm near Earling until 1960, when they moved back to Defiance and continued his mechanic career until his retirement in 1982.
     Marcus was a member of: the American Legion Post No. 707, Knights of Columbus, St. Peter’s Parish Council, the Defiance City Council, and he was a charter member of the Shelby County Economic Council.
     He was a hard worker and had a great sense of humor. He had a great love of music and was always wanting to learn.
     Marcus died on Monday, November 14, 2011 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-five years, five months, and twelve days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Donald, and all of his eleven brothers and sisters: Anna, Mike, Clara, Andrew, Leonard, Werner, Norbert, Emil, Alban, Gertrude, and Charles.
     He is survived by his wife of sixty-four years Naomi (Schmitz) Gross of Harlan, Iowa; children: Patrick Gross and his wife Maggie of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Sharon and her husband Henri Duyzend of Seattle, Washington, Douglas Gross and his wife Eileen of Des Moines, Iowa, Terry Gross and his wife Luanne of Lakewood, Colorado, Bill Gross and his wife Kris of Indianola, Iowa, Gene Gross of Harlan, Nancy and her husband Roger Karnofski of Longview, Washington, Marcus Gross, Jr. and his wife Kris of Harlan, and Jack Gross and his wife Lourdes of Council Bluffs, Iowa; twenty-one-grandchildren; other family members and friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 19, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. John Rosman accompanied vocalists Jason Kruse and Michael Kruse. The grandchildren were honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were his sons: Doug Gross, Marcus Gross, Jr., Gene Gross, Bill Gross, Terry Gross, and Jack Gross. Military rites were performed by the American Legion Post No. 707 at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance, Iowa

Patricia M. Gross - Age 69

     Patricia Mary Gross was born to Emil and Aquinata (Kaufman) Gross on August 12, 1938, at the home of her maternal grandmother near Westphalia, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Her first year of formal education was at a country school near her farm home. She then attended St. Boniface School in Westphalia, received her First Holy Communion and Confirmation at the parish church there, and graduated from St. Boniface High School in 1956.

     Pat felt honored to be the oldest of the family, and her twelve siblings always respected her position. After high school, Pat entered the Franciscan Convent in Milwaukee, Wisconsin as a postulant. On her 19th birthday, she was received into the order as Sister Maryelle, OSF. She remained in the order for fifteen years and continued to keep close ties with the Sisters who helped shape her life.

     Pat received a licensed practical nursing degree in Omaha and thus began her career in the medical field. When living in Evansville, Indiana, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in social work, and after moving to Buffalo, New York, she broadened her resumé by earning a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministry. In the mid-1990s, Pat relocated to Des Moines to be closer to her family. She was employed by Nurse Force and did private duty nursing in people’s homes. Many clients were like extended family to her.

     In each of the various places Pat lived, she made lasting friendships, and routinely she would travel back just for a visit. Fondly, she recalled her attendance at the 50th high school reunion in 2006 and the 50th anniversary with her sister classmates at the convent in 2007. With family members or friends, she also enjoyed traveling throughout Europe and South America. In 2003, she cruised to Alaska.

     Pat’s persistence and determination turned several of her life challenges into triumphs. She was diagnosed with leukemia in 1992 and braved the ordeal of a bone marrow transplant. When she broke her back, she endured body braces and inactivity until healing was complete. Both times she returned with gusto to her work of service.

     On January 29, 2008, Pat suffered a debilitating heart attack. Her strong spirit brought her through surgery, but physically she was weakened. Throughout her struggles, she was blessed with the constant support of her family and dedicated nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, many of whom came by on the last day to get a whispered greeting or a smile. Pat remained aware of her condition and died peacefully in the evening of April 27, 2008, having attained the age of sixty-nine years, eight months, and fifteen days. She was preceded in death by her father Emil Gross, her godchild Kevin Gross, and her niece Laura Gross.

     She is survived by her mother Aquinata Gross of Westphalia, Iowa; her sisters: June and her husband Tony Prom of Harvey, North Dakota, Bonnie McCoy of Des Moines, Iowa, Therese and her husband Steve Becker of Storm Lake, Iowa, and Rose and her husband Jeff Wignall of Creston, Iowa; her brothers: Jerry Gross and his wife Sue of Westphalia, Father Ken Gross of Red Oak, Iowa, Joe Gross and his wife Mary of Donahue, Iowa, Andrew Gross and his wife Denise of Des Moines, Ed Gross and his wife Leslie of St. Paul, Minnesota, Paul Gross of Atlantic, Iowa, Norman Gross and his wife Laurie of Spring Valley, Minnesota, and Nick Gross of Glenwood, Iowa; thirty-three nieces and nephews; many other relatives and friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was concelebrated at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 1, 2008, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa. Presiding was her brother Father Ken Gross with concelebrants: Father John Dorton, Father Don Bruck, and other priests. Interment was held at St. Boniface Cemetery with her brothers Jerry, Joe, Andrew, Ed, Paul, and Norman serving at casket bearers.

Phyllis C. Gross - Age 83

     Phyllis Charlotte (Stuhr) Gross was born on June 13, 1924 to John H and Opal (Voge) Stuhr on their farm south of Minden, Iowa. She attended Valley View country school south of her farm for eight years and then graduated from Minden High School. She then went to a teachers college in Red Oak, Iowa where she got her teaching certificate. She taught four years in the country school she attended as a child.

     She married Bernard Gross on June 18, 1948 in Avoca, Iowa. They were the parents of three daughters, Lanette, who died at birth, Cheryl and Rosalie. She and her family made their home in Avoca. Bernard died on September 9, 1991. Phyllis continued to live in Avoca and was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church until September of 2000 when she moved to Omaha to be closer to her daughter Rose. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family. She enjoyed being a homemaker and was known to many as an excellent cook and for her extensive collection of Santas.

     Phyllis died on Sunday, December 9, 2007 at the Hospice House in Omaha, Nebraska. She had attained the age of eighty three years, five months and twenty six days. She is preceded in death by her husband Bernard, her daughter Lanette and her parents John and Opal Stuhr.

     She is survived by her daughter Cheryl and her husband Steve Drawe and granddaughters, Lauren and Morgan, all of St. Louis, Missouri; her daughter Rosalie and her husband Lee Bockelman and grandchildren, Lance and his wife Ellen, Scott, Grant and Audra, all of Omaha, Nebraska; her brother John C. Stuhr and his wife Eileen of Minden, Iowa; her sister-in-law Josephine Leslie of Walnut, Iowa; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Thursday, December 13, 2007 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Avoca with burial at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca. Father John Frost was celebrant of the service. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Jim Sweeney, Arlan Kuehn, Jim Leslie, Jack Rosenthal, Lonn Nelsen, Dennis Piittmann and Don Willowghby. Her grandchildren served as casket bearers and they included Lance, Scott, Audra, and Grant Bockelman, Lauren and Morgan Drawe. Memorial were requested to Parkinson Disease Research Mayo Clinic and the Arthritis Foundation.

Loretta Grote - Age 86
     Loretta Mary Grote was born on February 22, 1925 to Jacob and Mary (Thomas) Daeges in Portsmouth, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Portsmouth.
     On January 11, 1944, she was united in marriage to Frederick Grote. Seven children were born to this union: Jeannie, Gerald, Nancy, Constance, Mary, Mark, and Ronald.
     Loretta worked at St. Mary’s Catholic School and then went to work for the Harlan Community School District. She retired in 1990 and continued living in her home after Frederick’s death in 2002.
     Her hobbies included crocheting, embroidery, and baking. She also enjoyed doing word puzzles, fishing, bingo, and playing games with anyone who would play with her.
     Loretta died on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-six years, five months, and twenty-six days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sons Gerald and Mark, brothers and sisters: Helena, Michael, William, Lewis, Elizabeth, Ann, Frances, Bernadine, Patrick, Pauline, and Henry, and granddaughter Stephanie.
     She is survived by her children: Jeannie and her husband Daryl Jensen of Shelby, Iowa, Nancy and her husband Randy Palmer of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Constance McElderry and her fiancé R. B. Loomis of Omaha, Nebraska, Mary and her husband Eric VanCamp of Harlan, Iowa, and Ronald Grote and his wife Kim of Washington, Iowa; twelve grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Janis Grote of Harlan; sister Marie Anderson of Newport Coast, California; other family members and many friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, August 22, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Kate Kohorst and Jan Rau provided the music. Serving as casket bearers were Mike Grote, Robert "Bobby" Grote, Lloyd Grote, Daniel Grote, Richard Grote, and Joseph Grote. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Mark S. Grote - Age 51
    
Mark Steven Grote was born on September 30, 1959 in Harlan, Iowa, to Frederick and Loretta (Daeges) Grote. He was baptized, confirmed, and had his first communion at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. He attended school at St. Mary’s Catholic School before transferring to Harlan and graduating with the Class of 1978.
     On November 20, 1982, he was united in marriage to Dianna Taylor at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. They had three daughters: Mandi, Becki, and Stephanie.
     Mark liked working with his hands and repaired automobiles and could do any type of handy man jobs that came his way. He was fascinated by machinery even after getting his arm stuck in a combine. He was passionate about teaching his children how to do repairs and be self-sufficient. If anyone ever asked Mark to fix something, he was able to do it right away because he always had the right tool on hand.
     He enjoyed recording and watching a broad range of movies, listening to his extensive music collection, and playing video games.
     Mark made time to go for walks in the park with his daughter and was always there when you needed him. He loved animals, especially his ferret, rabbits, and dogs.
     Mark was diagnosed in March of 2011 with pancreatic cancer and died on Sunday, April 17, 2011 having attained the age of fifty-one years, six months, and eighteen days. He was preceded in death by his daughter Stephanie, father Frederick, and brother Jerry.
     He is survived by his daughters Mandi Taylor of Sac City, Iowa and Becki Smith-Reisz of Atlantic, Iowa; mother Loretta Grote of Harlan, Iowa; sisters: Jeannie and her husband Daryl Jensen of Shelby, Iowa, Nancy and her husband Randy Palmer of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Connie McElderry and her fiancé R. B. Loomis of Omaha, Nebraska, and Mary and her husband Bud VanCamp of Harlan; brother Ronald Grote and his wife Kim of Washington, Iowa; sister-in-law Janis Grote of Harlan; close friend Kim Konecny of Harlan; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.
     Richard Jones officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were David Jensen and Jamie Grote. Inurnment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.


Ambrose Gubbels - Age  81

       Ambrose Nicholas Gubbels was born on March 9, 1925, to Peter and Clara (Bock) Gubbels on a farm near Westphalia, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia where he remained a member until 1984. Ambrose attended St. Boniface Catholic School in Westphalia. In April of 1945, Ambrose was enlisted in the United States Army and served as a surgical technician in the Asian Pacific Theater, earning several ribbons and medals before his discharge in December of 1946. He then started farming.

       In 1953, he was united in marriage to Rita Goeser. Six children were born to this union: Kathy, Jean, Charlene, Brian, Bob, and Scott. Ambrose farmed near Westphalia until he retired in 1984, when he moved to Harlan. He became a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan and remained a member there for twenty-three years. After his retirement, he worked for Farm Service Co-Op in Defiance and at Hy-Vee in Harlan. He was great at those jobs because he wasn’t afraid to strike up a conversation with a stranger and leave having made a new friend.

       Ambrose was a past member of the Defiance American Legion as well as a current member of the Harlan American Legion. He served on the parish council and as a parish trustee in Westphalia, on the Westphalia and Defiance school boards, Westphalia Co-Op Board of Directors, and the Westphalia Volunteer Fire Department.

Ambrose was a man of great faith and prayer. He truly appreciated his family and loved to tease his grandchildren and tell them stories. Ambrose spent close to nine years on dialysis, even though lasting five years was considered beating the odds. Ambrose and his wife remained together for better or worse, in sickness and health for fifty-three years before he died at Creighton University Medical Center on January 30, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-one years, ten months, and twenty-one days. He always enjoyed buying lottery tickets knowing that one day he would win the "big one". He has finally got the ultimate prize ~ Eternal rest in heaven.

      Ambrose was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers. He is survived by his wife Rita of Harlan, his children, Kathy and husband Will Schafer of Panama, Jean and husband Jim Keane of Panama, Charlene and husband Dan Lefeber of Portsmouth, Brian and wife Pam Gubbels of Harlan, Bob and wife Jodi Gubbels of Defiance, Scott and wife Dianne Gubbels of Council Bluffs, Iowa; sister-in-law Catherine Gubbels of Harlan, one brother Cyril and wife Therese Gubbels of Council Bluffs, sisters: Sabina and husband Eldred Conrad of Harlan, Sylvia Goeser of Westphalia, Virginia and husband Cletus Lickteig of Denison, Helen and husband Dwight Wubbenhorst of Mesa, Arizona, and Mary Ann and husband Francis Koesters of Earling, Iowa; twelve grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

      A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, February 2, 2007, with Rev. Bob Hoefler officiating the 11:00 AM service. Casket bearers were Paul Keane, Ryan Lefeber, Matt Gubbels, Craig Gubbels, Cletus Gubbels, Bruce Goeser, Jeremy Kruse, and Bob Lickteig. The Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150 provided military rites at the interment at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia.

Marie A. Gubbels - Age 94

     Marie Ann Gubbels was born on March 30, 1913, to Nicholas and Anna (Weihs) Gubbels on a farm near Westphalia, Iowa. She attended school at St. Boniface Catholic School in Westphalia and graduated with the Class of 1932.

     After her schooling, she worked as a midwife delivering babies. She also worked as a caregiver and cared for many families in the area.

     Marie loved to be out in her garden and tending to her beautiful flowers. She also enjoyed spending time in the kitchen and was a wonderful cook.

     Marie loved to help people and spent many hours doing volunteer work. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court of St. Katherine #266 of Earling, Iowa.

     In October of 2002, she became a resident of the Little Flower Haven in Earling. It was there that Marie died on December 11, 2007, having attained the age of ninety-four years, eight months, and eleven days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Nicholas Jr. and Harry, and her sisters Edna and Lucille.

     Marie is survived by her sisters: Rita Wageman of Omaha, Nebraska, Lorraine Korth of Randolph, Nebraska, Genevieve and her husband Donald Korth of Randolph, Nebraska, and Theresa and her husband John Brinks of Anita, Iowa; her sisters-in-law: Marge Gubbels and Lorena Gubbels, both of Harlan, Iowa; her brother-in-law Norbert Krienert of Osmond, Nebraska; nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, December 15, 2007, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, with Rev. Tom Coenen officiating the 10:00 AM mass. Honorary casket bearers were Daniel Brinks and Dennis Brinks. Serving as casket bearers were Janelle Hansen, Dean Gubbels, Connie Wostrel, Rick Korth, Gail Brinks, and Jack Korth. Interment was held at St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia, Iowa.

Raymond "Bunny" Gubbels - Age 70

     Raymond Eugene "Bunny" Gubbels was born on September 26, 1939 in Portsmouth, Iowa, to Lawrence and Eva (Leinen) Gubbels. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa and attended school at St. Mary’s, graduating with the Class of 1958.

     He worked for La Sourd Grocery Store and delivered feed before becoming employed by the beef plant in Oakland, He worked there until 1985.

     On August 7, 1965, he was united in marriage to Carol Bruck at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth. Three sons were born to this union: Lenny, Jeff, and Tim. The family lived in Portsmouth until moving to Harlan in 1967. Two years later they moved to Avoca and had been at home there ever since.

     Bunny had been working for Sta-Bilt Construction Company in Harlan, Iowa, as a heavy equipment operator on the road construction crew until his ill health forced him into retirement in the summer of 2009.

     He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and taking the grandkids shopping. He would harvest black walnuts and was known to do some polka dancing and a mean chicken dance. He always carried a pocket knife and would always be whittling something.

     Raymond "Bunny" Gubbels died at his home on Friday, February 5, 2010, having attained the age of seventy years, four months, and ten days. He was preceded in death by his parents.

     He is survived by his wife of forty-four years Carol Gubbels of Avoca, Iowa; sons: Lenny Gubbels and his wife Cathy of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Jeff "Weasel" Gubbels of Treynor, Iowa, and Tim "T-Bone" Gubbels and his wife Teena of Avoca, Iowa; eight grandchildren; brothers: Gerald Gubbels and his wife Rita of Council Bluffs, Vernon Gubbels and his wife Carol of Yankton, South Dakota, Marvin Gubbels and his wife Judy of Penitas, Texas, and Lawrence Gubbels and his wife Joan of Council Bluffs; sister Dorothy and her husband Ken Arkfeld of Defiance, Iowa; other family members and many friends.

     Rev. John Frost officiated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Marshal Burchett, Keith Burchett, Gary Wendelin, Doug Brown, Ken Brown, and Charles Ronnfeldt. A private inurnment will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa.

Karla Kay Gustason - Age 70
    
Karla Kay Gustason was born on February 11, 1941 to Walter and Erma (Smith) Turk in Atlantic, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at First Methodist Church in Atlantic. She attended school in Atlantic and graduated with the Class of 1959.
     On September 6, 1959, she was united in marriage to Larry Gustason at the First Methodist Church in Atlantic. They had two sons: Brent and Kevin.
     From 1959 to 1961, she worked as a secretary at Walnut Grove in Atlantic. The family moved to Harlan in 1964. Karla owned and worked at the Sears catalog store between 1970 and 1972 with Larry. She became Assistant Director for the Harlan Community Library and stayed in that position for twenty-eight years.
     Karla became a member of the Harlan Methodist Church after moving to Harlan. She was also a member of the Harlan-Lebanon Chapter of Eastern Star, Harlan Jaycettes, Daughters of Nile (Shrine), the Iowa Library Association, and the Harlan Flames, participating in the women’s firefighters water fights. She loved to travel and go camping and on cruises. She also loved to cook. Karla was a member of the Red Hat Ladies and was also supportive of the racing team.
     Karla and Larry started spending their winters at their winter home in San Benito, Texas, where happy hour was at 3:30 and she attended "staff meetings" with her iced tea.
     Karla died on Saturday, November 19, 2011 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of seventy years, nine months, and eight days. She was preceded in death by her parents.
     She is survived by her husband of fifty-two years, Larry Gustason of Kirkman, Iowa; sons Brent Gustason and his wife Linda of Campbellsport, Wisconsin and Kevin Gustason and his wife Lu of Evergreen, Colorado; two grandchildren: Quinn Gustason and Danielle Capra; brother Darwin Turk and his wife Ruth of Lewis, Iowa; sister Jonell and her husband Jack Cook at Mt. Ayr, Iowa; other family members and friends.
     A memorial service was conducted by Pastor Darwin Moore at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 26, 2011at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Gary P. Guyer - Age 71
    
Gary Paul Guyer was born on February 9, 1939 to Paul and Ida (Simmonds) Guyer in Red Oak, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the Hancock Methodist Church in Hancock, Iowa. He attended the Hancock School and graduated with the Class of 1957.
     Gary entered the United States Air Force in 1958. He became an Airman Second Class before his honorable discharge in 1962.
     Upon his return home, he went to work at the Hancock Fertilizer Company and remained there for thirty-seven years. He retired in January of 2000.
     On April 27, 1963, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Hyatt. Two daughters were born to this union: Julie and Sherri.
     On November 10, 1978, Gary was married to Dorothy "Suz" Hobson.
     He was an avid reader and outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and camping. He loved to play the guitar and sing and performed with the Red Cross Band; at the Acorn Supply Feed Store in Council Bluffs and most recently, at the Lied Museum for the "Jam and Bread" sessions.
     He was good with his hands and enjoyed fixing cars, pickups, tractors, just about anything that came his way. He especially liked having his family around.
     Gary was a member of the Hancock Volunteer Fire Department and the American Legion Post No. 720.
     Gary died at his residence on Monday, September 20, 2010, having attained the age of seventy-one years, seven months, and eleven days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Suz, his brother Bill, and his son-in-law Royce Weirich.
     He is survived by his children: Julie and her husband Byron Petry of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, Sherri Claussen of Avoca, Iowa, Bobette and her husband Dan Pattee of Frenchtown, Montana, Colleen Weirich of Hancock, Iowa, and Byron Hobson and his wife Barb of Omaha, Nebraska; thirteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; his brothers Steve Guyer and his wife Karen of Hancock and Les Guyer and his wife Carline of Hancock; sister-in-law Carolyn Guyer of Hancock; other family members and many friends.
     Pastor Byron Petry officiated the 1:30 PM graveside service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Serving as casket bearers were Vince Guyer, Linnie Guyer, Tom Guyer, Eric Guyer, Chet Guyer, Bill Guyer, Bob Guyer, and Lance Guyer. Military rites were performed by the American Legion Post No. 720.

 

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