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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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Edythe Head - Age 91

Edythe N. Head was born in the home of Emma and Pete Thomson on May 6, 1917 in Cuppy’s Grove. She was the eighth of nine wonderful children and the last survivor of the Thomson clan. On October 14, 1939, Edythe was united in marriage to Leo Head at Cuppy’s Grove Church. Two children were born to this union: Sherril and Thomson.

Edythe enjoyed knitting, quilting, bird watching and spending as much time as she could with her family and friends. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the delight of her life. They blessed her life with much joy and happiness and she will surely be missed.

Edythe died on Thursday, April 16, 2009, with her family at her side, in the home of Allen and Sherril Koepke in Cedar Rapids, from a brief illness. She had attained the age of ninety-one years, eleven months, and ten days. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Leo; and her siblings: Edward, Ralph, Clifford, Sylvia, Herbert, Ramona, and Donald.

She is survived by her daughter Sherril and her husband Allen Koepke of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; her son Thomson Head of Seattle, Washington; three grandchildren: Amy and her husband Ben Davis of Davenport, Iowa; Chad Reedy and Melissa Vogt of Fr. Myers, Florida; and Ryan Reedy of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; her two cherished twin great grandchildren: Sophia and Ella Davis; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Sunday, April 19, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Pastor Dave Swinton officiating the 2:00 PM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa with Sohpia Davis and Ella Davis acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Ben Davis, Melissa Vogt, Amy Davis, Chad Reedy, Keith Bauer, and Ryan Reedy. Following interment, a lunch was held at the First United Methodist Church in Harlan where Edythe was a member.

Albert C. Heese - 78

Albert Charles "Bert" Heese was born on May 9, 1929, in Earling, Iowa, to Albert and Mary (Walker) Heese. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. After his graduation from high school, he attended Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, graduating from college in 1951.

It was while he was attending Creighton that he met and married Margaret Connelly of Omaha. After his graduation from Creighton, he served in the United States Army. After his discharge from the service, Bert and Margaret made their home back in Earling and raised their ten children there. Their children are: Mike, Tom, Kathleen, Ann, Tim, Maureen, Patrick, John, Peggy, and Jim.

Bert began employment at the lumberyard with his father and purchased the business in 1967 when his father died. In 1963, Bert formed C & H Fertilizer with Bernard Cox. Bert purchased Mr. Cox’s half of the business in 1976 and continued working there until his retirement.

Bert became a resident of the Little Flower Nursing Home in Earling on March 22, 2007, and it was there that he died on Saturday, November 3, 2007, having attained the age of seventy-eight years, five months, and twenty-five days. In addition to his parents, Bert was preceded in death by his sons Tim and Mike.

He is survived by his children: Tom Heese and his wife Carol Kaufman of Denver, Colorado, Kathleen and her husband Denny Larsen of Missouri Valley, Iowa, Ann Heese of Las Vegas, Nevada, Maureen Ryan of Fremont, Nebraska, Patrick Heese and his wife Cyndi of Lindale, Texas, John Heese of Harlan, Iowa, Peggy and her husband Larry Calavan of Las Vegas, and Jim Heese of Earling, Iowa; fifteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his brother Don Heese and his wife Margaret of Tampa, Florida; his sister Karen and her husband Herman Fortenberry of Nashville, Tennessee; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, November 7, 2007, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Rev. Tom Coenen officiated the 11:00 AM service. Military Rites were held by Earling American Legion Post No. 615 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.

Catherine A. Heese - Age 76

Catherine "Cathy" Ann Heese, the daughter of Anton and Helen (Book) Graf was born on August 22^nd, 1932, in Harlan, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. She attended school in Harlan.

Catherine was united in marriage to Vince Heese at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan on January 19, 1954. To this union, five children were born. She enjoyed sewing and gardening. She belonged to the St. Michael’s Altar Society and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court of Saint Katherine No. 266. Vince and Cathy lived on the farm west of Earling from 1954 until 1994 and then moved into Earling.

Cathy died on Sunday, October 19, 2008, having attained the age of seventy-six years, one month, and twenty-seven days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Ralph Graf, and her sisters: Alice McGee, Agnes Miller, Frances Tremel, and Mary Graeve; her great-granddaughter Josie Catherine and her mother Shawna Jones.

She is survived by her husband Vince Heese of Earling, Iowa; children: Dan Heese of Omaha, Nebraska, Russ Heese and his wife Judy of Earling, Iowa, Julie and her husband Bruce Goeser of Harlan, Iowa, Jane Blum and her friend Ken Query of Earling, and Carmen and her husband Gary Gubbels of Earling; fourteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her sisters: Sister Mary Estelle Graf, RSM, of Omaha, Helen Bruck of Portsmouth, Iowa, and Irene Tremel of Earling; sister-in-law Jeanette Graf of Denver, Colorado, brother-in-law Delbert Graeve of Harlan; many nieces and nephews, and many great friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, October 23, 2008 beginning at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, with Rev. Tom Coenen as celebrant. Casket bearers were Christopher Heese, Randy Heese, Brian Heese, Tyler Gubbels, Terry Gubbels, Greg Goeser, Joe Blum, and J. J. Blum. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa

Francis H. Heese - Age 76
     Francis Henry Heese was born on September 18, 1934 to Frank and Estella (Wieland) Heese in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. He attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School and graduated with the Class of 1954.
     On September 2, 1961, he was united in marriage to Mary Alice Kramer at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Six children were born to this union: Pam, Frank, Vicki, Shelli, Joe, and Scott.
     Francis was drafted into the United States Army and served for two years during the Korean War in Korea. After his honorable discharge from the service, he returned to Earling and began his lifetime farming career. He also spent some time as an Ottilie seed salesman.
     He was a member and former commander of the Earling American Legion Post No. 615 and a third degree Knights of Columbus Earling Council No. 1741. Francis served on the St. Joseph’s parish council, building committee, and did lots of volunteer work for the parish and his community.
     He was an avid sports fan, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Harlan Community Cyclones as well as the Earling town teams. He was the manager for the Earling town team basketball tournaments and served as a youth baseball and basketball coach. He was also a member of the Shelby County Pork Producers and served as director.
     He loved animals and was an avid gardener. He enjoyed painting hay bales, Mary’s cooking, and having visits from his kids and grandkids.
     Francis died on Saturday, July 2, 2011, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-six years, nine months, and fourteen days. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters: Margaret "Mag" Book, Estella Rannells, Therese Swanson, and Madonna Heese; and brother Joseph Heese.
     He is survived by his wife of nearly fifty years Mary Alice Heese of Earling, Iowa; his children: Pam and her husband Brian Gubbels of Harlan, Iowa, Frank Heese and his wife Shari of Harlan, Vicki and her husband Loren Jorgenson of Omaha, Nebraska, Shelli and her husband Larry Schaben of Earling, Iowa, Joe Heese and his wife Denise of Earling, and Scott Heese and his wife Jennifer of Bennington, Nebraska; nineteen grandchildren; sisters Marie Blum of Earling, Iowa, and Leona Sondag of Portsmouth, Iowa; brothers-in-law Mel Book of Earling and Francis Rannells of Dunlap, Iowa; other family members and many friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 2:00 PM Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Honorary Casket Bearers were Larry F. Schaben, Diane Thieman, Loren Jorgenson, Shari Heese, Don Kramer, Brian Gubbels, Denise Heese, Jennifer Heese, Gene Fuhs, and Patty Corey. Serving as casket bearers were Matthew Gubbels, Christopher Schaben, Brevan Jorgenson, Jamie Swanson, Tyler Schaben, Rick Rannells, Denny Book, and Jeff Blum. Military Rites were held by the Earling American Legion Post No. 615 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa.

Grace Elizabeth Heese - 81
     Grace Elizabeth Heese, daughter of Leonard and Valeria (Koesters) Erlbacher, was born on March 10, 1930 in Earling, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling with the class of 1948.
     On April 14, 1953, Grace was united in marriage to Owen Heese at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling. After their marriage, Grace worked several part time jobs but spent a majority of her time raising her two children, Bill and Sharon.
     Grace was a devoted wife and loving mother and very proud grandmother. She spent countless hours watching her grandchildren’s school, 4-H and sporting events. Grace was very independent mowing her own yard until last summer. She enjoyed quilting, going to BINGO with her friends, trips to the casino and assisting with volunteer work. Grace was also a devoted and active lifetime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and lifetime resident of Earling.
     Grace died at University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska on May 27, 2011 having attained the age of eighty-one years, two months and seventeen days. In addition to her parents, Grace was preceded in death by her husband Owen and her brother Richard Erlbacher.
     She is survived by her children: Bill Heese and his wife Deb of Papillion, Nebraska and Sharon and her husband Dean Staley of Charter Oak, Iowa; her five grandchildren: Lyndsey and her husband Scott Degenhardt, PFC Kyle Heese, Nolan Staley, Bradley Staley and Luke Staley; brothers and sisters: Mildred "Mick" and her husband Al Graeve of Earling; Joanne and her husband Dennis Kohles of Earling; Donald Erlbacher and his wife Mary Ann of Omaha, Nebraska and Bill Erlbacher and his wife Joanie of Earling; her sister-in-law Pam Erlbacher of Maryville, Missouri; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
     The 10:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 by Rev. Chris Fontanini at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Concelebrating were Rev. Michael Berner, Rev. Paul Koch, and Rev. Chuck Kottas. Honorary casket bearers were Scott Degenhardt, Lyndsey Degenhardt, PFC Kyle Heese, Nolan Staley, Bradley Staley, and Luke Staley. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Bieker, Dr. David Erlbacher, Doug Graeve, Dave Kohles, Shawn Erlbacher, Tony Cavanaugh, Glenn Kohles, and Craig Graeve. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa.

Mildred Marie Heese - Age 81
     Mildred Marie Heese was born on April 15, 1929 to Carl and Marie (Feldman) Kramer in Earling, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and attended the Earling school. She graduated with the Class of 1947.
     On January 19, 1949, she was united in marriage to Nick Heese at St. Joseph’s. Eight children were born to this union: Janice, Diane, Norma, Barb, Marilyn, Sharon, Ron, and Lois.
     Mildred was a homemaker and raised her children. She took a job at CDS in Harlan when the children were older. She enjoyed gardening.
     Mildred died on Monday, January 10, 2011, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-one years, eight months, and twenty-six days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Norman and Mark, and a granddaughter Mary Ann Williams.
     She is survived by her husband Nick Heese of Harlan, Iowa; daughters: Janice and her husband David Williams of Carroll, Iowa, Diane Rickers and her friend Ron Willenborg of Carroll, Norma Crocker of Omaha, Nebraska, Barb and her husband Gene Rice of Crescent, Iowa, Marilyn and her husband Bill Nicolosi of Yukon, Oklahoma, Sharon and her husband James Ward of Earling, son Ron Heese and his wife Janet of Earling, Iowa and Lois Ratay of Omaha; twenty-three grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; brother Ralph Kramer and his wife Eula of Portsmouth, Iowa; sisters: Helen and her husband Bernie Leinen of Harlan, Alma and her husband Rich Leinen of Portsmouth, Stella Lefeber of Portsmouth, Jeanette Kramer of Harlan, Marie Pemberton of Overland Park, Kansas, and Irene Lefeber of Portsmouth; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, on Friday, January 14, 2011. Honorary casket bearers were Monica Kimball, Matthew Kimball, Tracie Sehnert, Brad Williams, Jared Williams, Ashley Ratay, Amy Light, Holly Nicolosi, Tony Kimball, Mallory Braby, Jamid Braby, Danielle Rice, Julie Rickers, Brian West, Nikki Ratay, Taylor Heese and Dana Rice. Serving as casket bearers were Jason Williams, Bruce Williams, Tristan Heese, Eric Nicolosi, Cody Rice, Lisa Rickers, Kelsey Heese, and Dustin Ward. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa.

Donald G. Heilig - Age 80

Donald George Heilig, the son of Leonard and Madeline (Robinson) Heilig, was born on February 9, 1927 in Shelby, Iowa. He was baptized in the Shelby Methodist Church on April 8, 1928 and later confirmed in the Shelby Lutheran Church. Donald attended school in Shelby.

Don enlisted in the United States Navy March of 1945. He was stationed on the Battleship USS Pennsylvania. After receiving his Honorable Discharge in July 1946, he returned to Shelby and began a bulldozing business. He was known as the best cat skinner in southwest Iowa. He also continued to farm with his father and brothers. Donald enjoyed gardening, fishing and collecting "treasures" and was also known as being a "Jack of All Trades."

Donald died at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska on February 15, 2007 having attained the age of eighty years and six days. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister Carol Jean Heilig.

Survivors include his children: Terry Heilig of Oklahoma; Danny Heilig and his wife Ruth of Elk Horn, Iowa; Randy Heilig of Shelby, Iowa; Brian Heilig of Omaha, Nebraska; Roger Heilig and his wife Vanessa of Shelby, Iowa; Deborah and her husband Doug Seymour of Crescent, Iowa; Douglas Heilig and his wife Michelle of Avoca, Iowa; Kristin Heilig of Shelby, Iowa; Robin Heilig and his wife Missy of Kansas City, Missouri; Traci and her husband Larry Allen of Odebolt, Iowa and Dawn and her husband Michael Holthus of Pickrell, Nebraska; and long time friend Millie Petrzilka; twenty-seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren; three brothers: Bob Heilig and his wife Leona of Maphis, Texas; Ted Heilig and his wife Judy and Tim Heilig, all of Avoca, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, February 19, 2007 at 3:00 PM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Duane Anunson as the clergy. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Jason Emery and Eric Seymour with Ted Heilig, Doug Seymour, Tim Heilig, Roger Heilig, Doug Heilig and Robin Heilig as the casket bearers. Military Rites were done by the Shelby American Legion Post No. 240 with interment at the Shelby Cemetery, Shelby, Iowa

Mae R. Heilig - Age 86

Mae Rebeca Heilig, daughter of Chris and Johanna (Jensen) Swensen, was born on May 13, 1923, in Harlan, Iowa. She was baptized at Bethel Baptist Church in Harlan and attended country school in rural Harlan.

After school, Mae worked at the Whitestar café in Harlan, Harlan produce, Olsen Grocery Store and managed the Casey’s convenience store for over fifteen years.

When Mae wasn’t working, she enjoyed doing puzzles including jigsaws and crosswords. She also enjoyed listening to music, especially Big Band music, Elvis Presley, and Dean Martin. Mae was musically talented and could play the guitar and the piano. She also enjoyed dancing and going to the horse races and dog races in Grand Island and Aksarben, Nebraska.

Mae became a resident of Salem Lutheran Homes in Elk Horn on October 30, 2007. It was there that she died on Friday, October 16, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-six years, five months and three days. She is preceded in death by her parents and her sisters Dagney Svendsen, Christina Johnson, and her brother Norman Swensen.

She is survived by her children: Lynn and her husband William VanBibber of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Gary Heilig and his special friend Beverly Gessert of Minden, Iowa; Peg Mikels of Ida Grove, Iowa; Tom Heilig and his wife Cindy of Harlan, Iowa; twelve grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; her siblings: Ina Carroll of Jewel, Iowa; Violet Fiscus of Harlan, Iowa; Donald Swensen and his wife Jo Ann of Omaha, Nebraska; Ethel Dent of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and Joy and her husband Tom Salmon of Colorado; her sister-in-law Leota Swensen of Harlan; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, October 19, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Rev. Steven Frock officiating the 10:00 AM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery with Mike Mikels, Joe McLaughlin, Matt Heilig, Brian Boyle, Logan Boyle, and David Heilig serving as casket bearers.

Dudley Heiman - Age 65
     Dudley Leroy Heiman was born on July 30, 1945 to Leroy and Ruby (Bidlack) Heiman in Carroll, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manilla, Iowa. He attended Country School at East Boyer No. 7 until seventh grade then went to the Manilla Community Schools, graduating with the Class of 1963.
     Dudley entered the United States Air Force in 1965 and served during Vietnam until 1969. He joined the Air Guard in 1987 and served until 1993. He worked at Farmland Foods in Denison, Iowa from 1963 until he retired in 2008.
     On August 8, 1998, he was united in marriage to Mary Frederick at Garden of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Omaha, Nebraska. They spent many happy years together enjoying Dudley’s hobbies including antique tractor and car shows and music festivals. Their children and grandchildren brought them much happiness. Dudley and Mary shared a love for the Lord.
     Dudley was blessed with six children from his first marriage: Paul, Amy, Karl, Beth, Carrie, and JoAnn. He was a loving father and grandfather.
     He grew up on a farm outside of Manilla where he enjoyed helping his father in the fields. This led to a lifetime love of John Deere tractors. He belonged to a tractor club and Greenridge Antique Steam Engine Club in Irwin. He also enjoyed old cars and fishing.
     Dudley died at his home on Sunday, June 5, 2011, having attained the age of sixty-five years, ten months, and six days. He was preceded in death by his parents, a step-son Randy Frederick, and a nephew Shawn Heiman.
     He is survived by his wife Mary Heiman of Harlan, Iowa; children Paul Heiman and his wife Jeanne of Manilla, Iowa, Amy Heiman of Aurora, Illinois, Karl Heiman and his wife Joanna of Dunlap, Iowa, Beth Guzman of Manilla, Carrie Heiman of Manilla, and JoAnn and her husband Chris Machmuller of Omaha, Nebraska; step-children Angel Powell of Omaha, James Frederick and his wife Sarah of Omaha, and Mary Summitt of Omaha; thirteen grandchildren; ten step-grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and siblings Delores and her husband David Zeman of Manilla, Lois and her husband Larry Schwartz of Manilla, Roger Heiman of Irwin; other family members and many friends.
     Pastor Steve Helwig officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Thursday, June 9, 2011 at Gethsemane Evangelical Lutheran Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Serving as casket bearers were James Frederick, Josh Heiman, Chris Machmuller, karl Heiman, Dan Montez, and Sean Heiman. Military Rites were performed by Manilla American Legion Post No. 132 at the Nishnabotna Cemetery in Manilla, Iowa.

Joel D. Heitkamp - Age 70

Joel Dean Heitkamp, son of Walter and Ida (Mack) Heitkamp, was born on December 25, 1939, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He was baptized at the Pomeroy Lutheran Church and confirmed at the Farniville Lutheran Church. Joel attended Ogden Community School where he graduated with the class of 1957. After school, Joel enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Puerto Rico, serving as a Chaplin’s assistant. After being discharged from the service, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he worked for Reliance Electric as a purchasing agent.

In 1966, Joel was united in marriage to Amyda Dansberry of Tucson, Arizona. In 1982, Joel and Amyda moved to Prescott, Arizona, where they purchased Prescott Liquors. In 1994, they moved to Tucson, Arizona, where Joel was employed at Albertson Foods.

In 1998, Joel moved to Harlan, Iowa, where he retired in 2003.

Joel enjoyed Antique Car Shows and owned several antique cars. Among his favorites were a 1949 Cadillac, 1950 Ford Woody Wagon, 1948 Desoto, and a 1947 Buick Convertible. He owned 50 some antique cars in his life and was very active in car clubs. He also served as a driver for Barrett Jackson Auto Auction.

Joel loved playing cards and in 1998, he won a seven card stud poker tournament in Las Vegas, beating 120 other entries.

Joel was also an avid gardener, specializing in container gardening. He served as president of the Garden Club in Harlan for two years.

Joel died on Wednesday, April 7, 2010, at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy years, three months, and thirteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Paul.

He is survived by his sisters Elaine and her husband Vern Hall of Avon Park, Florida and Judi and her husband Paul Schmidt of Harlan, Iowa; his sister-in-law Kathy Heitkamp of Malvern, Iowa; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, at Peace Lutheran Church in Harlan, with Rev. Merlene Ostebee officiating the 1:30 PM service. Serving as honorary casket bearers were: Vern Hall, Wayne Ankenbaur, Sam Nicklos, Mike Sipple, Richard Schmidt, Damon Schmidt, Josh Heitkamp, and Brandon Burma. A private disposition will be held at a later date.

The family suggests memorials be directed to

The Gardening Angels Garden Club or

Peace Lutheran Church

Phyllis Ann Heller - Age 73
    Phyllis Ann Heller, daughter of Carl and Irene (Rosman) Wilwerding, was born on September 11, 1937 at Defiance, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance and was confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Buck Grove, Iowa. She attended grade school in the Buck Grove and Defiance area and graduated from Irwin High School with the class of 1955. After high school, Phyllis worked as a home health aid.
     On December 28, 1957, she was united in marriage to Roger Heller at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Logan, Iowa. Three children were born to this union, twin daughters, Jannette and Janet and son, Kenneth. After their marriage, Roger and Phyllis made their home at Fort Bliss in Texas where Roger was stationed in the United States Army. After Roger received his honorable discharge, they moved back to the Defiance area where Roger farmed and Phyllis was a homemaker.
     In 1967, they retired from farming and moved into their present home in Defiance. Phyllis then became employed at Communication Data Services in Harlan. She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church and its Altar Society. Phyllis was an avid genealogist and historian for the Defiance area and has completed a book on her family tree dating back from 1745 to the present. She was one of the organizers of the Defiance Sesquicentennial History Book. She helped to research and organize a book containing the history of St. Peter’s Catholic Church and Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery. She has also been instrumental in the restoration of the Old Pioneer Cemeteries in southwest Iowa.
     Family was important to Phyllis. She enjoyed camping and family events with her children and grandchildren. Roger and Phyllis were blessed to observe their fiftieth wedding anniversary in December of 2007. After she retired from CDS in 1999, Phyllis continued her work in genealogy and enjoyed life with her family.
     Phyllis died on November 16, 2010 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan having attained the age of seventy-three years, two months and five days. In addition to her parents, Phyllis was preceded in death by an infant sister, Maxine.
     Survivors include her husband Roger Heller of Defiance; her children: Jannette and her husband Bob Bogler of Harlan, Iowa; Janet and her husband Jeff Theulen of Defiance and Kenneth Heller and his wife Christiane, of Killeen, Texas; seven grandchildren: Kim and her husband Andy Zahn, Stacy Theulen and her fiancé Ray Wellman, Todd Theulen, Kyle Bogler, Brett Bogler, Cory Bogler and Sina Heller; her siblings: Richard Wilwerding and his wife Shirley of Harlan; Ivo Wilwerding and his wife Darlene of Westphalia, Iowa; Norma and her husband Marvin Jablonski of Omaha Nebraska; Jolene and her husband Ed Blum of Panama, Iowa; Duane "Bud" Wilwerding and his wife Sandy of Omaha; Judy and her husband John Thraen of Earling; Jane Wilwerding of St. Louis, Missouri, Carol and her husband Don Eagle of Dallas Texas and Larry Wilwerding and his wife Sharon of Omaha; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini and Rev. Glen Wilwerding celebrated a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance. Interment was held in Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Defiance with Andy Zahn, Todd Theulen, Kyle Bogler, Brett Bogler, Ray Wellman, and Cory Bogler serving as casket bearers.

Joanne F. Helmts - Age 67

Joanne Frances (Benning) Helmts was born on May 26, 1940 at Ackley, Iowa. She was the daughter of Fred and Frances (Schmidt) Benning and was one of three children in the family. She attended country school and in 1958, she graduated from Geneva High School in Geneva, Iowa. Following high school, Joanne attended Dental Assistant School in St. Paul, Minnesota and then worked as a Dental Assistant for a year in Des Moines, Iowa.

Joanne was married in 1960 to Earl Warren Griffen at St. Peters United Church of Christ in Geneva, Iowa. They were the parents of five sons: Richard, Leon, Donald, Rodney and Fred. She was a housewife and loved to play the accordion, dance, roller skate and cook. Her specialties were lasagna and cinnamon rolls and always had the recipes in her head. She enjoyed knitting and cross-stitch.

Joanne married Norman Helmts on February 6, 1990 in Denison, Iowa and they lived in various towns, including Harlan and Atlantic, before moving to Avoca in 1992. She always had an incredible smile and a great laugh but, as her family relates, you didn't want to make her angry. She had a bubbly personality and was very optimistic, always looking for the silver lining in her everyday life. Her door was always open, she didn't know a stranger. Joanne enjoyed playing bingo and cards, watching game shows, reading and working with the computer, although she was not technology oriented. Although she took drivers ed while in high school, she never drove, however, she enjoyed helping deliver newspapers. Since 2001 when she had a stroke and other health problems, including heart surgery, she has been limited in her activities but she was improving.

Joanne died on Friday, October 26, 2007 at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa. She had attained the age of sixty-seven years and five months. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, LaDonna Benning.

Joanne is survived by her husband, Norman Helmts of Avoca, Iowa; her sons: Richard Griffen and his wife, Michelle, of Carson, Iowa, Leon Griffen and Donald Griffen, both living in Shelby, Iowa, Rodney Griffen and his wife, Angie, of Mounds View, Minnesota and Fred Griffen and his wife, Anne, of Avoca, Iowa; a step-daughter, Christina Berry and her husband, Richard, and a step-son, Kevin Helmts, all of Hazel Green, Alabama; her brother, Norman Benning and his wife, Delores, of Hampton, Iowa; seventeen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

Memorial Services were held on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at 11:00 AM at the United Church of Avoca with Pastor Nancy Ross-Hullinger as the clergy. Serving as Honorary bearers were Sandy Stormer, Barb Befort, Donna Murray, Tamera Ploen, Carol Fox, Marilyn Fritz and Lori Teachout. Private Family inurnment was held at the Atlantic Cemetery, Atlantic, Iowa.

Luella A. Hendricks - Age 92
     Luella Ann Hendricks, the daughter of M. D. and Flora Elizabeth (Stinn) Leinen, was born on June 11, 1918 near Portsmouth, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church and attended St. Mary’s School in Portsmouth. Luella grew to adulthood on her parents farm helping with the many farm chores and helping to raise her brothers and sisters.
     Luella was united in marriage to Ernest A. Hendricks on September 14, 1942 at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. Six children were born to this union: Karen, JoAnn, Darlene, Larry, Colleen and Ronald. After their marriage, Ernest and Luella were members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and farmed near Portsmouth. In 1962, the family then made their home in Portsmouth and after the death of her husband Ernest on January 17, 1972, Luella continued to make her home in Portsmouth where she remained active in the church and was employed for over ten years at the Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan.
     In addition to being a lifetime member of St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Luella was an active member in the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court of St. Katherine’s of Earling for over sixty-four years. Traveling was a source of enjoyment for her as well as quilting, embroidering, gardening and outings with her sisters. She continued to make her home in Portsmouth until 2009 when she became a resident of Little Flower Haven in Earling. This is were she died on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 , having attained the age of ninety-two years, four months, and two days.
     In addition to her parents and her husband Ernest, she was preceded in death by her daughter Karen Wehr and her siblings Rita, Mark and Arthur. Survivors include her children: JoAnn Lawyer of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Darlene and her husband Wade Fiscus of Longmont Colorado, Larry Hendricks and his wife Judy of Portsmouth, Iowa, Colleen and her husband Al Wingert of Buckeye, Arizona and Ronald Hendricks and his wife Michelle of Brighton, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren, her sisters and brother: Arlene and her husband Joe Reinig of Portsmouth, Mary Ellen Reisz of Portsmouth, Cleo Mae and her husband Harold Lefeber of Minden, Iowa, Robert Leinen and his wife Connie of Persia, Iowa and Lois and her husband Duane Book of Ft. Lupton, Colorado; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Rev. John Dorton celebrated a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, October 18, 2010 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima in Portsmouth. Honorary casket bearers were Todd Hendricks, Chad Fiscus, Aaron Hendricks, Heather Bucksner, Kim Hendricks, and Christine Hendricks. Serving as casket bearers were Dan Hendricks, Eric Wingert, Marc Wingert, David Bucksner, John Wehr, and Joel Fiscus. Interment was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth.

Rosetta B. Hendricks - Age 94

Rosetta Bendicta (Schwarte) Hendricks, daughter of Rose (Lehan) and Herman Schwarte, was born on May 24, 1914 in Earling, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and attended grade school and high school at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Earling.

On October 9, 1940, Rosetta was united in marriage to Louis Hendricks at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Two sons were born to this union: Raymond and Eugene.

Rosetta and Louis farmed for several years. They enjoyed dancing and going to friends’ homes and making quilts and yarn animals.

In 1969, they moved to Harlan and Rosetta worked for Mickels, Myrtue Memorial Hospital, and cleaning at REC. She lived in her own home until September 2008 when she moved to Little Flower Haven in Earling, Iowa. On January 5, 2009, Rosetta was, transferred to Myrtue Medical Center.

It was there that she died on Thursday, January 22, 2009, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety-four years seven months, and twenty-nine days. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Louie; her son Raymond; and her brothers and sisters: Frank, Joseph, Henry, Wilford, Isidore, and Quirina.

She is survived by her son Gene Hendricks and his wife Pam of Harlan; her daughter-in-law Shirley Hauck of Omaha, Nebraska, who was married to the late Raymond Hendricks; six grandchildren: Sandra, Raymond, Catherine, Bradley, Chad, and Amy; fifteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, January 26, 2009 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrated the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery with Sandra Hendricks, Catherine Goodell, and Amy Hendricks serving as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Raymond Hendricks, Jr., Bradley Hendricks, Chad Hendricks, Bill Stinn, Albert Schwarte, Dave Martin, Joe Schwarte, Richard Schwarte, and Larry Hendricks.

Mary Jane Henkelman - 85

Mary Jane Henkelman was born on February 21, 1922, in Rita, Louisiana, to Salvatore and Frances (Lusco) Culotta. She was baptized at Holy Savior Catholic Church and attended Holy Savior Catholic School graduating with the Class of 1940. After her graduation, she worked for the United States Post Office and Raceland Bank and Trust in Lockport, Louisiana.

On June 4, 1944, she was united in marriage to Francis Henkelman in Lockport. Five children were born to this union: Francis, Jr., Ann, Dan, Ruth, and Clem. After moving to Defiance, Iowa, she worked at the bank in Defiance and helped in the cafeteria at Defiance-Westphalia Catholic school. She was an excellent seamstress and was employed for a time at Wiig’s Department Store. Mary Jane also had the role of beekeeper, helping her husband when he ran over one thousand beehives.

When she wasn’t sewing, she would crochet, knit, or do tatting. She also liked doing jigsaw puzzles and playing solitaire. She was a great cook and everyone enjoyed her special meatballs. One of her other hobbies was gardening and she planted and cared for her own garden as recently as this spring.

Mary Jane loved to spend time with her family, and especially doted on her grandchildren. But every once in a while, you would find her playing bingo or taking a trip to one of the casinos with her friends!

After she retired, Mary Jane resided in Defiance until September 12, 2007, when she was admitted to Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan. It was there that she died on Wednesday, September 26, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-five years, seven months, and five days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her children Francis, Jr. and Ann, and her brothers and sister: Antoinette, Sam Jr., Phillip, Joe, Dominic, Vincent, and Guy.

Mary Jane is survived by her children: Dan Henkelman and his wife Barbara of Omaha, Nebraska, Ruth Henkelman of Harlan, Iowa, and Clem Henkelman of Defiance, Iowa, and his friend Roxie Meisenger of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters: Anna Culotta of Lockport, Louisiana, Sarah and her husband Wilton Vedros of Lockport, Frank Culotta and his wife Mary of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Ruth Culotta of Lockport; nieces and nephews; other family members; her special friend Opal Jensen, and many other friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, October 1, 2007 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Officiant was Father Tom Coenen and Eulogist was Pastor Donna Ewert at the 11:00 AM service. Julie Skelton, Kate Ortman, and Megan Caul were readers. The grandchildren and great-grandchildren that Mary Jane doted on were the honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were Doug Schmitz, Kenny Kenkel, Terry Kenkel, Tim Kenkel, Ed Schmitz, and Bill Schaben with interment held at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance.

Serving as casket bearers were Doug Schmitz, Kenny Kenkel, Terry Kenkel, Tim Kenkel, Ed Schmitz, and Bill Schaben with interment held at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance.

Agnes Mary Herbst - Age 94

Agnes Mary Herbst, daughter of Theodore and Bertha (Huettman) Stessman, was born on February 15, 1913, in Panama, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. Agnes continued her education and obtained her teaching certificate where she then taught in a rural school near Panama. She was later appointed post mistress at the Panama Post Office.

On June 1, 1937, Agnes was united in marriage to Elmer Herbst at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Panama. They were the parents of ten children: Janice, Carol, Diane, Dan, Jean, Don, Bill, Peggy, Ted, and Jim. After their wedding, Agnes and Elmer lived on their farm near Panama until Elmer’s death in 1984. It was then that Agnes moved to a house in Panama.

In her spare time, Agnes enjoyed walking, pressing wild flowers, quilting and was a talented artist who loved listening to music. Agnes loved her family and took great pride in being a grandma and great-grandma. Agnes was active in St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church and also served as an officer in St. Mary’s Altar Society.

In 2004, she became a resident at Little Flower Haven in Earling, Iowa. It was there that she died on Thursday, August 2, 2007, having attained the age of ninety-four years, five months, and eighteen days. In addition to her parents, Agnes is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer; her great-granddaughter, Megan Klein and ten of her brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her children: Janice and her husband Robert Theulen of Panama, Iowa; Carol and her husband Ron Mickels of Omaha, Nebraska; Diane and her husband Tom Dermody of Alamo, California; Dan Herbst and his wife Carol of Panama; Jean and her husband Larry Heese of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Don Herbst and his wife Shirley of Earling, Iowa; Bill Herbst of Davie, Florida; Ted Herbst and his wife Shirley of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Peggy and her husband Don Shawver of Fair Oaks, California; and Jim Herbst and his wife Joan of South Elgin, Illinois; twenty-nine grandchildren and forty-one great-grandchildren; her sister Gen Oppold of Panama; nieces, nephews, and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Rev. John Dorton at 11:00 A.M. on Monday August 5,2007, at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa and concelebrated by Msgr. Gerald Stessman and Rev. Michael Peters. Interment was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Panama and serving as casket bearers were: Matt Herbst, Dean Herbst, Tim Herbst, Mark Hesse, Luke Shawver and Ryan Dermody.

Donafae Hibray - Age 85
     Donafae Hibray, the daughter of Honas and Inis (Smith) Sindt, was born on November 27, 1925, in Woodbine, Iowa. She graduated from Woodbine High School in 1943. Following high school, she was employed at Mutual Benefit Insurance Company in Omaha, Nebraska.
     Desiring a college education, Donafae enrolled at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, majoring in Child Development. She was a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority and was voted "Dream Girl of Delta Zeta" by her sorority sisters. While attending ISU, she was chosen by the student body as a Bomb Beauty.
     On September 17, 1950, Donafae married Art Hibray in the First Christian Church in Ames. Four children were born to Donafae and Art - all sons - Dennis Arthur and Douglas Alan (identical twins), Robbin Craig, and Blake Cameron.
     Donafae spent her early married years as a wife and stay-at-home mother. During this time, she was a Cub Scout Den Mother, Sunday School Teacher, and Little League Mom.
     As her husband accepted various agricultural positions, Donafae served as homemaker in Clarion, Allison, Webster City, and Humboldt, Iowa, Fairmont, Minnesota, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, and Harlan, Iowa.
     Donafae worked several years on a part-time basis for Field Enterprises, was employed as a J. C. Penney Custom Decorator, and as an instructor for Iowa Western Community College. She was an active member and officer of Myrtue Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.
     Donafae and her family were long-time members of First United Methodist Church in Harlan, where she was a Sunday School Teacher, served on a number of committees, and was active in Martha Circle activities.
     She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed playing bridge with her many friends.
     Donafae died on Sunday, January 16, 2011, having attained the age of eighty-five years, one month, and twenty days. She was preceded in death by her parents.
     She is survived by her husband of sixty years, Arthur Hibray of Harlan, Iowa; her sons: Dennis Hibray and his wife Debra of DePere, Wisconsin, Douglas Hibray and his wife Rita of Fall Creek, Wisconsin, Robbin Hibray and his wife Dale of Nashville, Tennessee, and Blake Hibray and his wife Linda of St. Louis, Missouri; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister Valrie and her husband William Paynton of Attleboro Falls, Massachusetts; other family members and friends.
     Rev. Dr. David Swinton officiated the 10:30 AM Funeral Service at the First United Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa on Friday, January 21, 2011. Serving as casket bearers were Chad Hibray, Todd Hibray, Blake Hibray, Brad Hibray, Josh Hibray, and Adam Clayton. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Ruth G. Hicks - Age 94

Ruth (Johnson) Hicks, age ninety-four, died on Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa.

Ruth was born in Stephen, Minnesota and was one of eight children born to Christian and Mary (LaMetterey) Johnson.

In 1926, her father built one of the first motor homes and Ruth, her parents, and a younger sister and brother traveled in it for a year. They went south from Minnesota, across to the Pacific coast, up to Washington, and across the northern United States and back to Minnesota. Her parents left the children with relatives in Waverly, Minnesota and traveled another year. Then they bought land in Missouri between Joplin and Carthage on Highways 66 and 71. They started a novelty factory and store. Ruth went through high school there and then spent a year at home helping with the novelties and store.

During this time, Ruth met Ivan Hicks, who was born in Carthage and they were married in 1933 in Webb City, Missouri. They moved to Omaha, Nebraska where Ivan was employed. Ruth and Ivan were the parents of nine children. In 1949 they bought an acreage near Bellevue, Nebraska.

Ivan was a cattle buyer for Wilson Company and was transferred to West Point, Nebraska and then to Cherokee, Iowa. When he retired because of illness, they moved to Walnut, Iowa and eventually moved back to their home in Bellevue. Ivan died in 1974. Ruth moved to Avoca in 1984. About this time, having inherited a love of traveling from her father, Ruth bought a camper van and traveled extensively.

Ruth was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Besides her church and her large family and their many activities, she was interested in camping, fishing, gardening, reading, sewing, quilting, bird watching and playing cards.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ivan, a daughter, Emily and her husband William Bever, three grandchildren, one great-grandchild, four sisters and two brothers. She is survived by eight children: Jay (Mary Alice) Hicks of Nehawka, Nebraska, Geraldine Russmann of Minden, Iowa, Joan (Terry) Holmes of Jefferson, Maine, Alan (Diane) Hicks of Sanborn, Iowa, Rosalie(Dennis) DeYoung of Quimby, Iowa, Mary (Joseph) McLaughlin of Everly, Iowa, Paul Hicks of Spirit Lake, Iowa and Andrew (Teresa) Hicks of Bellevue, Nebraska; thirty-four grandchildren, fifty-five great grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Stephen Johnson of Apache Junction, Arizona, other relatives and many friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, August 29, 2008 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, Iowa with Father John Frost as officiant. Burial was in the Bellevue Cemetery in Bellevue, Nebraska. Those serving as casket bearers were Jay Hicks, Jr., John L. McLaughlin, Chris Hicks, Jeremy Hicks, James Russmann, Seth DeYoung and Jeff Bever.

Larry Allan Hilger - Age 61
     Larry Allan Hilger’s story began in Harlan, Iowa. He was born on February 26, 1949 to Donald and Madonna (O’Connor) Hilger. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, attended St. Michael’s Grade School and graduated from Harlan High School with the class of 1967.
     The next chapter in his life began when he enlisted in the United States Army where he served in Germany during the Viet Nam Conflict. Larry served in the military post office at the Wurzburg, Germany Army Base. In January 1969, he was given the Soldier’s Medal for rescuing a drowning girl off the coast of California in September of 1968. This is the nation’s highest award given in a non-combat situation. To quote the newspaper article,"Private Hilger grabbed the girl around the waist and held her head above water; it took him ten minutes to reach the shore with her."
     After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to the Midwest where he became employed by Northwestern Bell in Omaha, Nebraska.
     Larry was trained as a lineman at the Northwestern Bell School, and later worked as an installer repairman in the Omaha area. He worked in several capacities as Northwestern Bell became AT&T, U S West and later Qwest Communications. At Qwest he mainly managed part of the computer room overseeing the care and control of the long distance transmission tapes. He also became a member of the Communication Workers of America Local No. 7400 AFL-CIO Labor Union and served for several years as the Union Steward.
     On July 31, 1971 he was united in marriage to Suella Leuschen at St. Mary’s Church in Panama, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Heather and Matthew. Throughout his life, Larry loved spending his free time with his family. He was a gifted storyteller who could entertain with his tales of hunting, fishing and golfing. He also enjoyed playing cards and winning at scrabble. When he wasn’t watching Seinfeld, he was fascinated by the history of WWII. He loved to take afternoon drives through the Iowa countryside. His trips to Wyoming with his brothers, his sons and his close friend were some of his favorite times.
     After his marriage ended, Larry continued to live in the Omaha area. He later married Deborah Sayre Mickey on May 22, 1981 in Omaha. In 2001, he decided to retire from Qwest, and the next year they moved to Portsmouth, Iowa.
     Larry died on October 26, 2010 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, eight months after his sixty-first birthday. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Matthew.
     Larry’s story lingers in the hearts of his wife Deborah of Portsmouth, his daughter Heather Jennings and her husband Barry of Shawnee, Kansas, daughter Jennifer Dow and her husband Duane of Walnut, Iowa, daughter Amy Mickey of Harlan, Iowa, son William Mickey and his fiancé Hattie of Panama, Iowa. Additional survivors include two brothers James and his wife Mary Hilger of Cody, Wyoming, Dennis Hilger of Creston, Iowa and a sister Laurie and her husband Peter Clark of Providence Rhode Island, nine grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
     Funeral Services were conducted by Rev. Jeff Erlemeier at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa at 3:30 P.M. on Saturday, October 30, 2010. Military Rites were conducted at Iowa Veteran’s Cemetery at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, November 1, 2010 with Barry Jennings, Shayn Dow, William Mickey, Jackson Jennings, Duane Dow and Mike Hilger serving as casket bearers.

Janet Margaret Hinz - Age 92
     Janet Margaret Birkett Hinz was born on September 15, 1918 to Arthur and Mercedes Birkett. She grew up on her family’s farm in Ellsworth, Minnesota, with sister Elizabeth and brother Miles. Following high school in Ellsworth she enrolled at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, majoring in journalism and graduating with honors.
     Margaret met her husband, Ronald William Hinz, while teaching in Avoca, Iowa. They were married on August 8, 1942 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Their first years of married life were spent near the Camp Hood, Texas army base where Ronald was stationed. Following the war they moved to Minnesota, where they became the parents of five children: William, who died in infancy, Janet, Nancy, Paul, and Roni Ann. It was during this time that they built their beloved cabin in northern Minnesota.
     Margaret lived life to the fullest. She was an active member of the Lutheran Church, and her faith inspired us. She was a poet, an artist, an avid gardener, our family’s historian, and an adventurer who lived a year in France and who trekked with her husband to the Yukon for big game hunting. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother who taught her children to find faces in the clouds, to love sunsets on the lake, and to find the best in people. We will always remember her enthusiasm for life, positive attitude, compassion, and engaging smile.
     Margaret passed away on July 25, 2011 in Park Rapids, Minnesota with family at her side. She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald William Hinz; infant son William Arthur; parents Arthur and Mercedes Birkett; sister Elizabeth Nagle; brother Miles Birkett; and nephews, Gerald William Nagle and Charles Arthur Birkett. She leaves to mourn her passing her daughter Janet and husband Stuart Hollimon; daughter Nancy Hinz; son Paul Hinz; daughter Roni Hinz-Breslin and husband John Breslin; grandchildren Daniel and wife Valoree Hollimon, Michael Hollimon, Brooke Hollimon, Brett Davidson, Alan Davidson, Mara Inglezakis; great-granddaughter, Brynn Hollimon; nieces Susie Dittmar and husband Gunter, Laura Bukvich and husband John, Pat Birkett, Mimi Schleusner; nephews Richard Nagle and wife Mary, Miles Birkett, William Kyle; and sister-in-law Ruth Birkett.
     Pastor Dennis Reich officiated the 1:00 PM funeral service on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. Inurnment was held at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca.

Robert L. Hinz - Age 82

Robert Lee Hinz, the son of Clarence and Bertha Wunder Hinz, was born on a farm near Avoca, Iowa on December 21, 1924. He was baptized and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church of Avoca. Robert began his schooling in Oakland, Iowa until the family moved back to Avoca. He attended school at New Boston Country School and then Avoca High School graduating with the class of 1942.

Robert farmed with his father until entering into the United States Army on March 21, 1945 in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. After returning from the Army, Robert met his future wife, Barbara Griffith of Walnut, Iowa. They were united in marriage on September 19, 1948 at the Walnut Presbyterian Church in Walnut. After their marriage they moved to Minden where they started farming. To this union two daughters were born: Debra and Laurie. In 1976 they purchased the family farm from Roberts parents and in 1990 they received the Century Farm Award. Robert continued to farm until his retirement in 2000. In June of 2005 he moved to the Avoca Assisted Living Lodge.

Robert was a member of the Avoca Fair board and was also a past president. He was a sixty year member of the Fred Funston American Legion, a member of the Minden Volunteer Fire and Rescue and also a member of the Minden United Church of Christ. He enjoyed many hunting and fishing trips to Minnesota and Canada. Robert enjoyed playing cribbage, the slot machines, and visiting with friends. He also kept busy following all of his grandchildren activities.

Robert died on Monday, June 11, 2007 at the Avoca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center having attained the age of eighty-two years, five months and twenty-one days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Barbara.

Survivors include his daughters: Debbie and her husband Tom Minahan of Neola, Iowa and Laurie and her husband Bill Fell of Avoca; six grandchildren: April Davidson, Matt Minahan, Traci Huebner, Drew, Nate and Gabe Fell; four great grandchildren: Cainan, Josie and Ryder Davidson and Holden Minahan; one brother, Richard Hinz and his wife Patricia of Bondurant, Iowa; his special friend Marilyn Holdren of Harlan; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Thursday, June 14, 2007 at 10:30 AM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Donna Ewerts as the clergy. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Vernon Hinz, Norman Nielsen, Zachary Davidson, Richard J. Hinz, Jr. Serving as casket bearers were Drew Fell, Gabriel Fell, Matthew Minahan, Daniel Hinz, Nathan Fell and Robert Huebner. Interment was held at the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa.

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