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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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Curtiss Lee Jacobsen - Age 52
     Curtiss Lee Jacobsen was born on September 8, 1958 to Dennis and Lois (Wendt) Jacobsen in Harlan, Iowa. He started his schooling in Hancock and transferred to Avoca. He graduated from Avoca High School with the Class of 1976.
     On February 2, 1984, he was united in marriage to Lisa Smith in Avoca, Iowa. They were the parents of five children: Ryan, Amanda, Jordan, Sarah, and Matthew.
     He worked for the Hancock Elevator and delivered fertilizer until he became disabled in 2007.
     Curtiss died suddenly on Thursday, December 2, 2010, having attained the age of fifty-two years, two months, and twenty-four days.
     He is survived by his wife of twenty-six years Lisa Jacobsen of Avoca, Iowa; his children: Ryan Jacobsen of Avoca, Amanda Jacobsen of Avoca, Jordan Jacobsen of Avoca, Sarah Bruck of Harlan, Iowa, and Matthew Guyer of Omaha, Nebraska; three grandchildren: Faith, Lucas, and Chase; his parents Dennis and Lois Jacobsen of Hancock, Iowa; brothers: Dennis Jacobsen and his wife Debra of Hancock, Steven Jacobsen and his wife Renae of Webster City, Iowa, Kevin Jacobsen and his wife Peggy of Avoca, and Daren Jacobsen of Hancock; other family members and many friends.
     Pastor Melissa Drake officiated the 1:30 PM graveside service on Monday, December 6, 2010 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Dorothy Jacobsen - Age 83

Dorothy Mae Jacobsen was born on May 27, 1926, to Harry and Clara (Bonneson) Michaelsen in Audubon, Iowa. She was confirmed at the First Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. She attended school in Walnut, Iowa, and graduated from Walnut High School.

On May 4, 1946, Dorothy was united in marriage to Delmon Jacobsen in Troy, Kansas. Two children were born to this union: Darrell and Dianne.

Dorothy was a homemaker when the children were little and eventually began driving a truck with her husband until his unexpected death in 1985. She worked as a waitress in Avoca for a few years.

She enjoyed reading and was very good at embroidery; making blankets and quilting. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren and was very close with them.

Dorothy was a lot of things: meticulous, organized, independent, stubborn, but mostly she was a devoted wife and mother.

Dorothy died on Thursday, November 5, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-three years, five months, and nine days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Delmon, and her son Darrell.

She is survived by her daughter Dianne and her husband Larry Ehlers of Persia, Iowa, grandchildren: Tammy and her husband Mike Eberl of Underwood, Iowa, Jason Ehlers and his special friend Jennifer of Minden, Iowa, Shela Jacobsen of Avoca, Iowa, and Michael Jacobsen of Oakland, Iowa, great-grandchildren: Landon and Jessica Eberl, Austin Ehlers, Christian, Gia, Jordan, and Josh Jacobsen; daughter-in-law JoAnn Jacobsen of Avoca, Iowa; brother Eldon Michaelsen and his wife Nettie of Walnut, Iowa; half-sisters Carleen and her husband Jerry, Linda, and Ruth; and half- brothers Gary and his wife Vicki, and Harry Jr.; other family members and friends.

Pastor Dennis Reich officiated the 1:30 PM memorial service at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa, on Saturday, November 7, 2009.

Esther M. Jacobsen - Age 97

Esther M. (Rogers) Jacobsen was born on May 1, 1909 in Hancock, Iowa to Edgar and Bertha (Crouch) Rogers. She lived her entire life in Hancock. She graduated from Hancock High School in 1928 and has been active in the Hancock Alumni Association, being the oldest graduate.

Esther married Alfred C. Jacobsen on February 6, 1929 in Oakland, Iowa. They raised their family on a farm east of Hancock. She was a 4-H leader, member of the Farm Bureau, and a long time member of the Rebecca Lodge. She and Alfred were members of the United Methodist Church in Hancock for over 70 years. Esther was active in the Ladies Society of the church, Secretary-Treasurer of the Federated Club and an active supporter of the AHST Booster Club. In 1992, Esther and Alfred were voted #1 Sports Fan of the Year.

Esther died at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa on January 23, 2007. She had attained the age of ninety seven years, eight months and twenty two days. She was preceded in death by her husband of sixty five years, Alfred, in 1993. She is also preceded by her parents, two sisters: Evelyn Collins and Ethel Roy; and five brothers: Floyd, William, Edgar, Woodrow and Robert Rogers.

Survivors are her daughter, Bonnie M. Green and her husband, Robert, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, her son, Dennis E. Jacobsen, Sr., and his wife, Lois, of Hancock; her grandchildren: Susan Green of Council Bluffs, Sandi Burmeister and her husband, Doug, of Hancock, Keith Green and his wife, Lisa, of Council Bluffs, Dennis E. Jacobsen, Jr., and his wife Debbie, of Hancock, Steve Jacobsen and his wife, Renee, of Webster City, Iowa, Curt Jacobsen and his wife, Lisa, of Avoca, Kevin Jacobsen and his wife, Peggy, of Avoca and Darren Jacobsen of Hancock; sixteen grandchildren, two great great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

Memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church of Hancock or the Hancock Volunteer Fire Department.

Leo Jacobsen - Age 72
     Leo Howard Jacobsen, the son of Walter and Emma (Knudsen) Jacobsen was born April 23, 1939 in Harlan, Iowa. He was confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa and attended Monroe Township #1 country school. After his schooling, Leo was drafted into the United States Army.
     After receiving his honorable discharge, Leo returned to the Midwest and worked for a survey company in Omaha, evaluated concrete samples and later sold insurance. On November 12, 1966, he was united in marriage to Donna Ketelsen at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Charter Oak, Iowa. Three children were born to this union: Walter, Steven and Deborah. Leo and Donna made their home on a farm outside of Walnut, Iowa where he later went and drove bus for Southwest Iowa Transit Authority for a number of years. Leo was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church outside of Jacksonville for many years.
     Leo died at his home on December 2, 2011 having attained the age of seventy-two years, seven months and nine days. In addition to his parents, Leo was preceded in death by his wife Donna; sister Audrey Holtz and brother Melten Jacobsen.
     He is survived by his children: Walter Jacobsen and his wife Kim of Grimes, Iowa; Steven Jacobsen and his wife Mary of Ankeny, Iowa and Deborah Jacobsen of Jefferson, Iowa; his grandchildren: Brooke, Rachel, Cole and Paige; his brother Floyd Jacobsen and his wife Shirley of Atlantic, Iowa; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
     Pastor Ron Rasmussen officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa. Peggy Doonan was the organist and Nancy Steckelberg and Ann Johnk were the vocalists. Serving as casket bearers were Alan Jacobsen, Carl Jacobsen, Mike Jacobsen, Darwin Holtz, Lelyn Holtz, and Ronald Young. Interment was held at the Jacksonville Cemetery.

Melton C. Jacobsen - Age 80
     Melten Christian Jacobsen was born on September 28, 1930 to Walter and Emma (Knudsen) Jacobsen in Monroe Township, Shelby County, Iowa. He was confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa and remained a member there. He attended Monroe #1 country school through the eighth grade.
     After his schooling, he farmed in Shelby and Pottawattamie counties. He worked for Goodwill Industries in Council Bluffs, Iowa, for many years.
     Melten enjoyed talking about family history, discussing weather conditions, playing pinochle, putting together puzzles, and following the Farmer’s Almanac.
     Melten became a resident of Oakland Manor nursing home in Oakland, Iowa, in March of 2009 and it was there that he died on Monday, September 26, 2011, having attained the age of eighty years, eleven months, and twenty-nine days. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister Audrey Holtz.
     He is survived by his brothers Floyd Jacobsen and his wife Shirley of Atlantic, Iowa and Leo Jacobsen of Walnut, Iowa; seven nephews: Alan Jacobsen and his wife Jonita of Sioux City, Iowa, Carl Jacobsen and his wife Lori and Mike Jacobsen and his wife Darla all of Atlantic, Walter Jacobsen and his wife Kim of Grimes, Iowa, Steven Jacobsen and his wife Mary of Polk City, and Darwin Holtz and his wife Lisa and Lelyn Holtz and his wife Ronda all of Walnut, Iowa; nieces Myra and her husband Norm Houser of Ankeny, Iowa, Nancy and her husband Joseph Steckelberg of Menlo, Iowa, Ann and her husband Larry Johnk of Walnut, De Etta and her husband Scott Norby of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and Deborah Jacobsen of Avoca; numerous great-nephews and great-nieces; other family members and friends.
     Pastor Ron Rasmussen officiated the 10:30 AM funeral service on Thursday, September 29, 2011 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Nancy Steckelberg, Myra Houser, Deborah Jacobsen, DeEtta Norby, and Ann Johnk. Serving as casket bearers were Alan Jacobsen, Carl Jacobsen, Mike Jacobsen, Walt Jacobsen, Steven Jacobsen, Darwin Holtz, and Lelyn Holtz. Interment was held at the Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa.

Wanda O. Jacobsen - Age 98

Wanda Olga Jacobsen, the daughter of Walter, Sr. and Polly Etta Stephenson Rieck, was born on February 9, 1910 in Guernsey, Iowa. She attended school in Guernsey until the third grade when the family moved to Walnut, Iowa. She graduated from Walnut High School and then attended Northwest Missouri State University.

Wanda was united in marriage to Melvin Jacobsen on September 28, 1935 in Walnut, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Robert, Judy and Sally. After settling her family, Wanda, while nurturing her love of music, began teaching piano to children in the Walnut area, some of whom pursued musicology careers following college. Among her commitments to the community, she volunteered at her church, was the founding member and former President of the Junior Federation of Women's Club, a member of the Walnut Historical Society's committee to author the history of Walnut.

In 1954, the family moved to Ohio where her husband was with Peter Kiewitt & Sons, returning to Walnut the following year. She remained in Walnut until March of 2005 when she moved to Prairie Hills Assisted living in Tipton, Iowa, becoming a resident of Cedar Manor Nursing Home in December, 2007. Wanda died at the Cedar Manor Nursing Home in Tipton Iowa on Thursday, March 20, 2008 having attained the age of ninety-eight years, one month and eleven days. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Melvin; son, Robert; brothers and sisters: Everette, Phyllis Brindley, Walter Rieck, Jr. and Rose Ann Keebler.

Survivors include her daughters Judy and her husband James Wurster of Lenox, Iowa; Sally and her husband Ron Engels of LaGrange, Illinois; daughter-in-law Linda Jacobsen of Tipton, Iowa; her sister Maxine Scheel of Avoca, Iowa; her sister-in-law Betty Rieck, Atlantic, Iowa, grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 24, 2008 at 1:30 PM at the Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa with Pastor Gail Muckey as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Ronald Engels, Thomas Engels, Kimberle Jones, Nicole Amberson, Gregory Wurster, Suzanne Achenbaugh, Dennis Amberson, Michael Engels, Jason Wurster, Kristi Smith, Brandon Jacobsen, Dustin Jacobsen, Robert Engels and Julie Wheeler. Interment was in the Layton Township Cemetery, Walnut, Iowa.

Loretta M. Jans - Age 87
     Loretta Marie Jans was born on March 24, 1923, to Florenz and Olga (Kronfuss) Bock in Westphalia, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia. She attended country school until the eighth grade and was President of the Young Women’s Society at St. Boniface.
     On February 9, 1943, Loretta was united in marriage to Albert J. Jans at St. Boniface. Three children were born to this union: Kenny, Marilyn, and Don. They made their home in Shelby County where Albert worked for various farmers. Loretta was always willing to help on the farm.
     She led a simple life and loved to cook, spending many hours preparing her family’s favorite foods for them. She also loved baking, especially apple pies. She liked housework and worked many years helping different families. She grew plants and was especially fond of baby tears and angel wings. She also had a vegetable garden and canned her own pickles. She has been an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church and St. Ann’s Guild since 1946.
     After Albert’s death in 2006, Loretta moved to an apartment in Harlan. She loved playing cards with her friends, especially pitch, having garage sales, and yelling bingo! She wrote poetry and stories.
     Loretta died on Monday, December 13, 2010 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eight months, and nineteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of sixty-three years, grandson Jeff Deal, sisters Marie and Theresa, and brothers Tony and Bernard.
     She is survived by her children: Kenny Jans and his wife Rosemary of Omaha, Nebraska, Marilyn and her husband Larry Deal of Braselton, Georgia, and Don Jans and his wife Peg of Solon, Iowa; five grandchildren: Brian Jans and his wife Dana, Beckie Jans and Joe Weaver, Erica and her husband Jason Buffington, Jesse Jans and his wife Carissa, and Wyatt Jans; Jennifer Deal; seven great-grandchildren: Brandon, Bailyn, Jada, Gracie, Cole, Brody, and Reilynn; brothers and sisters: Florence Bolte of Ralston, Nebraska, Joe Bock of Westphalia, Iowa, Rose and her husband Rudy Hubli of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Bob Bock and his wife Sharon of Palm Springs, California; other family members and friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 10:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, on Saturday, December 18, 2010. Honorary casket bearer was Jeff Deal. Serving as casket bearers were Brian Jans, Erica Buffington, Beckie Jans, Jesse Jans, and Wyatt Jans. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Ethel Pearl Jauron - Age 97
     Ethel Pearl Jauron, daughter of John Crittenden and Minnie Ann Dyer was born November 2, 1914, the youngest of three sisters and lived on a small farm near Anthon, Iowa. She attended and graduated from Salix High School in 1932.
     On June 10, 1936 she was united in marriage to Gerald Joseph Jauron of Salix, Iowa in Sioux City Iowa. They lived in the Salix area for several years and then moved to Earling, Iowa with their four children. Four additional children were born during the following years in Earling. Much of her life was spent cooking, doing laundry (drying outside on the line), ironing and making sure everyone was ready for school and youth activities.
     Her family and friends only knew her as Pearl. She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling and active in the Ladies Circle for most of her life. She was known for good desserts, when her circle was in charge for dinners. She enjoyed needle work in the evening until her eyesight began to fail. She enjoyed her flower garden, especially pansies.
     She enjoyed going to the weekly Bingo Parties, more for the company of her friends than winning, although she did enjoy winning from time to time. For several years, she went up to Little Flower Haven in Earling, with crafting projects for the residents. In 2007, she moved to the senior apartments at Elmcrest in Harlan, Iowa. In 2010 she returned to Earling, Iowa to become a resident at the Little Flower Haven, where she died on November 17, 2011, fifteen days after her 97^th birthday.
     Pearl was preceded in death by her husband Gerald Joseph, her parents and her sisters Grace Holdcroft and Nora Belle Holdcroft. Survivors include her six sons and two daughters, including David and his wife Donna Jauron of Essex, Iowa, Tom and his wife Madelyn Jauron of Phoenix, Arizona, Jim and his wife Jolene Jauron of Indianola, Steve and his wife Judy Jauron of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, Vincent and his wife Deb Jauron of Harlan, Iowa and Richard Jauron of Ames, Iowa. Her daughters are Julie and her husband Ronald Mortensen of Omaha, Nebraska and Joan and her husband Tim Blum of Council Bluffs, Iowa She is also survived by twenty-one grandchildren thirty-two great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, other relatives and many friends.
     Rev. Chris Fontanini celebrated the 11:00 Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, November 21, 2011, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Betty Gaul accompanied vocalists Dave and Ruth Hoffmann. Serving as casket bearers were: Kurt Jauron, Michael Mortensen, Darin Jauron, Justin Jauron, Bryan Blum, and Michael Jauron. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.

Alvin Jensen - Age 93

Wilson Alvin Jensen, the son of Jens and Jennie Damgaard Jensen, was born on January 21,1913 in Shelby, Iowa. Alvin and his siblings grew up on his grandfather Jensen's farm northeast of Shelby. He was baptized in the Danish Lutheran Church and later confirmed in the United Lutheran Church in Shelby. Alvin attended country school and Shelby Community School until the 11^th grade. After his schooling Alvin worked at many farm jobs before he joined the Navy and served from 1936 until 1940 and was stationed on the Battleship Colorado during that time. He was honorably discharged from the Navy as a Second Class Petty Officer.

Alvin was united in marriage to Elma Mary Rohrs on February 10, 1950 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. In the spring of 1952 they moved to the Rohrs family farm with heir new son, Robert A. Jensen. Alvin, Elma and Robert have had the honor of their farm being recognized as one of the Century Farms of the State of Iowa. Alvin retired at the age of 68 but remained active helping Robert and planted his last crop in 2003. Alvin was a big fan of Iowa State University sports, he enjoyed mowing his lawn and reading.

Alvin died at his home on Friday, January 12, 2007 having attained the age of ninety-three years, eleven months and three days, nine days short of his 94^th birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elma, one brother Jens Jensen and sister Frances Johansen.

Survivors include his son, Robert Jensen of Shelby, Iowa; his brothers: Leonard Jensen of Hemet, California; Marlin Jensen and his wife Pernilla of Oakland, Nebraska; sisters-in-law: Helen Gaynor of Fullerton, California and Joan Jensen of Bloomfield, Nebraska; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at 11:00 AM at the Shelby Lutheran Church in Shelby, Iowa with Pastor Duane Anunson as the clergy. Serving as pall bearers were Paul Wise, Gerald Buck, Larry Johansen, Duane Johnson, Vern Bauer and Gene Wahling. Interment was held in the Shelby Cemetery, Shelby, Iowa.

Ernest A. Jensen - Age 90

Ernest Albert Jensen was born on March 28, 1918 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Martin and Marie (Dahl) Jensen.

He was united in marriage to Berdine Holm of Minden on April 22, 1939 in Papillion, Nebraska. One son, Jimmy, was born to this union.

Ernest worked with his father-in-law Adolph Holm in his construction business until Adolph’s death. Ernest then started his own company, Jensen Construction Company. He built many houses in the area, the United Church of Christ, and the educational wing of the church. He did a lot of remodeling work on every house in town after a category four tornado struck Minden in June of 1976.

He was a member of the United Church of Christ in Minden and helped make ice cream at the church socials. He loved to play cards and golf. Ernest spent many winters in Tuscan, Arizona, and was able to visit his brother and his granddaughter while there. He liked to travel and went many times to Florida with his friends.

Ernest became a resident of Little Flower Haven nursing home in Earling, Iowa, in February of 2000 and it was there that he died on Saturday, January 31, 2009, having attained the age of ninety years, ten months, and three days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his son.

He is survived by his daughter-in-law Joyce Jensen and her fiancé Mark White of Council Bluffs, Iowa; his grandson Jarel Jensen and his wife Shari of Omaha, Nebraska; his granddaughter Jayleen Jensen and fiancé Sam Casano of Phoenix, Arizona; two grandchildren; his brothers Frode Jensen and his wife Melba of Minden, Iowa and Clarence "Mike" Jensen and his wife Louise also of Minden; other family members and friends.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, February 4, 2009, with Pastor Brian Wohlhuter leading the 11:00 AM service at the United Church of Christ in Minden, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Steve Clawson, Jeremy McDermott, Richard Jensen, Tom Jensen, Wade Andersen, Carroll Olsen, and James Handy with interment held at the Minden Cemetery.

Evelyn I. Jensen - Age 86
     Evelyn Irma Jensen was born on April 15, 1924 on a farm north of Avoca, Iowa, to Peter and Margretha (Olesen) Madsen, Danish immigrants who arrived in Iowa in 1909 and 1917 respectively. Evelyn attended school through eighth grade at Fairview #5 near the family homestead. She enjoyed school, was a champion speller and was advanced one full grade after being home schooled for a time following a serious injury from a fall. The Madsen family moved to Harlan in 1936 where Evelyn attended high school, graduating in 1941.
     Evelyn was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and met her husband, Wilfred Jensen, while attending church at Harlan Immanuel Lutheran Church. The couple was married in the same church on July 17, 1946 and started their life together with Wilfred’s four-year-old daughter, Joyce, on Wilfred’s parent’s farm near Walnut, Iowa. The Jensens moved several times during their married life but never far from their roots in Shelby County. Eventually their family grew to include three sons and two more daughters.
     Evelyn enjoyed running the household as the family grew and proved to be an excellent cook and baker. She often had a large garden and did a lot of canning and pickling. She also sewed many of the children’s clothes. Evelyn kept very busy with family gatherings and her involvement in church and school activities and the neighborhood Social Hour Ladies Club.
     The family moved for the last time in 1963, back to the neighborhood north of Kimballton, where they had resided in the 1950's. Here Wilfred and Evelyn built a new home, ran a grain farm and small cattle feeding operation and in 1967, built an automated egg laying facility.
     As the children were growing and after nearly twenty-five years of marriage, Evelyn had the opportunity to take a job away from the home. On December 31, 1973, she started a position with Jorgensen Commodities Brokerage in Audubon, Iowa. She passed her Commodities Broker License exam in 1975 for which she was very proud and enjoyed working for the Jorgensen organization for over twenty-three years, retiring in February of 1997.
     Wilfred had passed away in 1986 after a five-year illness. In 1998, after her retirement, Evelyn moved from the farm to a small home she purchased in Elk Horn. Her health dictated a move to the Elk Horn Retirement Home in 2000 and then to Elm Crest Health Center in Harlan where she resided until her death on December 24, 2010. She had attained the age of eighty-six years, eight months, and nine days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a son-in-law, Thomas Wells.
     Evelyn is survived by her children: Joyce and her husband Verner Hansen of Kimballton, Iowa, Alan Jensen and his wife Maureen of Exira, Iowa, Randall Jensen and his wife Cindy of West Des Moines, Iowa, Lori Wells of Fonda, Iowa, Cindy and her husband Darrel Marshall of Urbandale, Iowa, and Richard Jensen of Mitchellville, Iowa; sixteen grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; sisters: Harriet Goshorn of Harlan, Iowa and Frances and her husband Harold Ahrenholtz of Denver, Colorado; brother Raymond Madsen and his wife Marge of Fort Collins, Colorado; sister-in-law Lois Hansen of Walnut, Iowa; several nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.
     Pastor Keith Menter officiated the 2:00 PM funeral service on Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at Elk Horn Lutheran Church in Elk Horn, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Wayne Hansen, Christopher Jensen, Kevin Hansen, Patrick Jensen, Justin Stewart, Parker Wels, Grant Wells, and Nick Jensen. Interment was held at Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa.

Memorials May Be Directed To:
Alzheimer's Association of Greater Iowa
1730 28th Street
West Des Moines, IA 50266
(515) 440-2722
www.alz.org/greateriowa

Frode M. Jensen - Age 88

Frode Marinus Jensen was born on August 4, 1920 to Morten and Maren (Dahl) Jensen in Council Bluffs, Iowa. On December 31, 1946, he was united in marriage to Melba Kriz of Dodge, Nebraska in Hiawatha, Kansas. Two children were born to this union: Linda and Dennis.

Frode was a devoted farmer, working first with horses and then evolved through the modern age of powered machinery. He believed in soil conservation and was a pioneer in terracing the Jensen farm, which sets on one of the highest spots in Pottawattamie County. In 1968, he constructed five miles of terraces under a government program and was recognized with the top conservation award at the district and regional levels, and was second in the state.

Frode was a community minded person. He was a member of the Minden United Church of Christ. He served three times as a deacon and was on the committee to build the United Church of Christ and the parsonage. He belonged to the Minden Community Club and helped build the new community hall after a devastating tornado swept through Minden.

He was on the committee to reorganize the Minden School District, which ultimately joined the Tri-Center School District in 1968.

Frode was admitted to the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center on April 6, 2009 and it was there that he died on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, having attained the age of eighty-eight years, eight months, and three days. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Andreas, Elmer, Ernest, and Leonard; and two brothers-in-law: Miilo Ruzicka and Reynold Zvacek.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-two years Melba Jensen of Shelby, Iowa, daughter Linda and her husband Robert Andersen of Avoca, Iowa; son Dennis Jensen and Christine Kading of Cambridge, Iowa; grandchildren: Wade Andersen and his wife Amy of Minden and Bobbi and her husband Mike Lund of Harlan; great-grandchildren: Morgan and Brooks Andersen and Brayden and Henry Lund; brother Clarence Jensen and his wife Louise of Algona; sister-in-law Luella Zvacek of North Bend, Nebraska; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

Pastor Brian Wohlhuter conducted the 11:00 AM service on Friday, April 10, 2009, at the United Church of Christ in Minden, Iowa. Casket bearers were Wade Andersen, Michael Lund, Richard Jensen, Tom Jensen, Jarel Jensen, and Bruce Jensen. Interment was held at the Minden Cemetery.

Leanna A. Jensen - Age 104
     Leanna Almira Jensen, daughter of Clarence and Metta Marie "Mary" (Jensen) Jacobsen was born on October 5, 1907, in Shelby County, Iowa. She attended country school and graduated from Harlan High School in 1927, living with another family so she could stay in Harlan and be near the school. She received a salary of fifty cents a week to do the housework while she lived there. In 1913, their family experienced the complete destruction of their farmstead by a tornado which Leanna often talked about in later years. Following her high school graduation, Leanna hired out to a family in the area.
     On June 12, 1927, Leanna married a young farmer named Einer Jensen who worked on a farm east of Harlan. They were secretly married as couples often did in those times and both continued in their separate jobs six months after they were married by a justice of the peace. They rented land and began farming, living in the Rabbit Hollow area during elementary school days of the three boys born to their union: Floyd, Kenneth, and Jim.
     They later purchased land west and south of Elk Horn, paying for it in three years as the Depression Years were over by that time. Those were the years they ran a grade A dairy, being among the first to have a modern milking parlor which was featured in a newspaper article. In 1967, Einer retired from farming and they moved to a brick house, built by their son Floyd, on Farnam Circle.
     Leanna worked hard in the farming operation, picking corn by hand in the earlier days and living on egg checks when corn sold for ten cents a bushel. In her journal, she says they had fun anyway. They celebrated birthdays in the neighborhoods where they lived and had parties, vacationing to Lake Okoboji with friends in the summer. On Saturday nights, they went to town and the boys were given money which they often used to go to the picture show for a dime. When Jim reached the age of 12, he looked older so the owner said "no admittance". Leanna saw Jim sitting in the car and marched him to the theatre owner, telling him Jim certainly was only 12. Jim got in the theatre. Leanna was a forceful woman but kind, with a big smile for all.
     Leanna made crocheted afghans for babies, graduations, and weddings. One count was seventeen Afghans for all her California grandchildren and spouses. She sent birthday money out with Kenneth when he visited Iowa so they each received $5.00 from her when he came home to California again. Leanna was an excellent housekeeper, often saying she was the "hired help" named Annie. Her windows were kept sparkling clean! When she retired and moved to town, she joined the women’s’ group at the First Baptist Church, where she was a charter member for fifty-three years. She and Einer entertained friends, playing the Rook card game and dominoes with their "Gang". You never left her house without an offer of coffee which would be accompanied by many goodies.
     Leanna died at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan at the age of one hundred four years, three months, and two days. She was preceded in death by her husband of over fifty years; Einer Jensen, her parents, seven brothers, three sisters and one daughter-in-law, Myrtle.
     Survivors include her sons, Floyd Jensen and his wife LaVale of Apache Junction, Arizona, Kenneth Jensen of Hesperia, California, and Jim Jensen and his wife Jane of rural Harlan; fourteen grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 13 great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Pastor Dan Hawn officiated the 11:00 AM funeral service at First Baptist Church in Harlan, Iowa, on Saturday, January 14, 2012. Serving as casket bearers were Carol Mack, Julie Jensen, Jerry Jensen, Jeff Ward, Greg Jensen, John Jensen, and Leroy Larsen. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa.

Louise R. Jensen - Age 82

Who died on
Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Visitation
Saturday, March 26, 2011
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
United Church of Christ
Minden, Iowa
Funeral Service
Saturday, March 26, 2011
2:00 PM
United Church of Christ
Minden, Iowa
Interment
Minden Cemetery
Minden, Iowa

Louise is survived by her husband Clarence "Mike" Jensen of West Bend, IA; sons Michael (Linda) Jensen of Charlotte, NC, Jerry (Paula) Jensen of Boulder, CO, and Bruce (Cindy) Jensen of Algona, IA; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and sister Jeanette Swensen of Elk Horn, IA.

Pauley Jones Funeral Home - Avoca
is in charge of arrangements
(800) 447-2588

Melba M. Jensen - Age 82
     Melba Marie Kriz Jensen was born on October 8, 1927, to Vincent and Cyprianna (Janecek) Kriz in Dodge, Nebraska. She graduated from Dodge High School with the Class of 1945. She worked at Mutual of Omaha after high school.
     On December 31, 1945, she was united in marriage to Frode M. Jensen of Shelby, Iowa, in Hiawatha, Kansas. Two children were born to this union: Linda and Dennis.
     Melba was a devoted farm wife helping outside when she was needed. She was a good mother; always active with her two children. Melba loved cooking and sewing for her family. She raised chickens and was referred to as the egg lady for many years marketing "Melba Jensen's Fresh Eggs". Melba had a green thumb and liked gardening and flowers. She was proud of her collection of African Violets.
     Melba was a member of the Minden United Church of Christ and the Women's Fellowship serving on committees. She was a member of the Minden Community Club and was a willing volunteer.
     Melba died on Saturday, August 7, 2010 at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-two years, nine months, and thirty days. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of sixty-two years, Frode.
     Melba is survived by her son Dennis Jensen and Christine Kading of Cambridge, Iowa; daughter Linda and her husband Robert Andersen of Avoca, Iowa; grandson Wade Andersen and his wife Amy of Minden, Iowa; granddaughter Bobbi and her husband Mike Lund of Harlan, Iowa; great-grandsons: Brayden, Morgan, Henry, Brooks, and Andrew; sister Luella Zvacek of North Bend, Nebraska; brother-in-law and sister in-law Clarence and Louise Jensen of Algona, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.
     Pastor Brian Wohlhuter conducted the 11:00 AM funeral service on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at the Minden United Church of Christ in Minden, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Wade Andersen, Richard Jensen, Rodney Ruzicka, Mike Lund, Tom Jensen, and Bruce Jensen. Interment was held at the Minden Cemetery in Minden, Iowa.

Opal M. Jensen - Age 77

Opal Marie Jensen was born on April 9, 1931, to Elmer and Matie Hansen in Davenport, Iowa. The family lived in Fiscus, Iowa, before moving to Colorado in 1936. In 1940, they returned to the Fiscus and Harlan area where Opal graduated from Harlan High School with the Class of 1949.

She was united in marriage on December 25, 1949 to Daryl Jensen at her home in Harlan. One son, Arlin, was born to this union.

Opal was a member of the Baptist Church in Fiscus and then at Bethel Baptist in Harlan. In 1985, she became a member of the First Christian Church in Harlan.

She was a devoted wife and mother and spent most of her years being a housewife and taking care of the homeplace. She also did some trucking for a few years before deciding to stay at home.

She became a resident of Elm Crest Retirement Home in June of 2007 and it was there that she died on Sunday, December 28, 2008, having attained the age of seventy-seven years, eight months, and nineteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Opal is survived by her husband of fifty-nine years, Daryl Jensen of Harlan, Iowa and her son, Arlin Jensen also of Harlan, Iowa; and many friends.

A funeral service was held on Friday, January 2, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Don Robinson officiated the 10:30 AM service. Casket bearers were John Keenam, Carlyle Larsen, Richard Hansen, Larry Klein, Dan Campbell, and Larry Clemons. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery.

Florence A. Johnk - Age 79

Florence Arline Johnk, daughter of William and Edith (Dieatrick) Lehnhardt, was born on December 11, 1927, in Anita, Iowa. She attended country school in Lincoln Township and graduated from Lewis, Iowa high school with the class of 1945.

After graduating from high school, Florence started teaching country school. On December 12, 1946, Florence was united in marriage to Virgil Schaaf Johnk in Oakland, Iowa. One son was born to this union.

Florence was a wife. mother, and a homemaker. She enjoyed gardening sewing, cooking, crocheting, and needlepoint. Florence had a soft heart and loved to help people in need.

While living in Lewis, Iowa, Florence was a member of the Methodist Church. After her marriage to Virgil, she became a member of the Congregational Church in Oakland and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Walnut until her death.

Florence died on Saturday, December 8, 2007, at the Cass County Memorial Hospital in Atlantic, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-nine years, eleven months, and twenty-seven days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Virgil, and one sister Leverne Zellmer.

She is survived by her son Linn Johnk of Omaha, Nebraska; her sister Vera and her husband Milton Mueller of Walnut, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Folmer C. Johnson - Age 91

Folmer Carstensen Johnson was born on November 24, 1916, to Niels Henry and Anna (Carstensen) Johnson on the family farm two and a half miles south of Elk Horn. He was baptized and confirmed in the Elk Horn Lutheran Church. He rode his pony to attend country school at Clay #6.

As a youth, he was active in 4H - he showed the Grand Champion at the Shelby County Fair, the Champion Shorthorn at the State Fair, placed 11^th in a large judging contest and won a trip to Chicago with his top 4H record book.

As a young man, he played with the Elk Horn softball team in the position of pitcher, shortshop, and left fielder.

He was inducted into the United States Army on November 3, 1943. He served in the Pacific Theater. He was honorably discharged on March 9, 1946 as a Staff Sergeant.

He married Verda Ohms on June 14, 1947 at Kountze Memorial Lutheran Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union: Kent, Kevin, and Cynthia.

Except for his years in the service, Folmer farmed all his life raising purebred hogs and shorthorn cattle. Folmer’s hobbies included hunting and fishing. Even in his later years, when able, he still loved to go. It was very important for Folmer to preserve the family farm which has been in the family for over 100 years. Folmer was on the board when Elk Horn was planning to build a community swimming pool and spent many hours helping in the construction of it.

Folmer died on Friday, August 29, 2008, having attained the age ninety-one years, nine months, and five days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Alvin and Levi, and his sisters Golda and Sylvia.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-one years Verda Johnson of Atlantic, Iowa; his sons Kent Johnson and his wife Dixie of Lincoln, Nebraska and Kevin Johnson and his wife Kathy of Atlantic, Iowa; his daughter Cindy and her husband Chuck Arbaugh of Gretna, Nebraska; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; - his brother Kenneth Johnson and his wife Betty of Omaha, Nebraska; other family members and friends.

Funeral services were officiated by Pastor Keith Mentor at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, September 1, 2008, at the Elk Horn Lutheran Church in Elk Horn, Iowa. Casket bearers were Scott Schreiner, Brian John, Todd Johnson, Eric Johnson, Grant Arbaugh and Jeremy Lyons with private interment services being held at a later date.

Gladys M. Johnson - Age 94

Gladys Marie Johnson, the daughter of Hans A. and Anna Margaret (Brodersen) Hansen, was born on a farm near Jacksonville, Iowa, on November 28, 1913. She attended country school in Jacksonville and grew to adulthood on the family farm. As many young girls did, Gladys worked out for area families until her marriage to Everett Johnson on December 29, 1937, in Shenandoah, Iowa. They were the parents of one son, Harold.

Gladys and Everett then farmed north of Jacksonville until 1942, when they moved to a farm two miles south of Harlan. They continued to farm until 1974 when Everett retired. They remained on their farm until moving to Harlan in 1987. As a farm wife, Gladys assisted on the farm and enjoyed gardening and going fishing in Minnesota with Everett.

After the death of her husband, Gladys lived in Harlan until becoming a resident of Elm Crest Retirement community in May of 2003, where she continued to reside until moving to the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Community in Avoca, Iowa in March of 2007. It was here that she died on January 4, 2008, exactly fourteen years to the day that Everett died having attained the age of ninety-four years, one month and seven days.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her three brothers, Glenn, Mike and Herbert Hansen. Survivors include her son Harold and his wife Juliene of Harlan, her granddaughter, Michelle and her husband Kevin Piersen of Omaha, Nebraska; her great granddaughter, Morgan Pierson, nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A funeral service was held on Monday, January 7, 2008, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Pastor Steve Chellew and Pastor Heather Ploen officiating the 10:30 AM service. Casket bearers were Kevin Pierson, James Burmeister, Dale Larsen, Richard Johnson, Dale Plagmann, and Dennis Woodin.

Helen V. Johnson - Age 86

Helen Vernice Johnson, the daughter of Ira and Lula (Sease) Keisler, was born in Gilbert, South Carolina on November 14, 1920 and was the fourth of seven children in the family. Helen grew up in Gilbert and graduated from Gilbert High School.

After graduation Helen went to work at the Charleston Navy Yard and this is where she met her future husband, Harold Ray Johnson of Elk Horn, Iowa. After moving back to the Midwest, they were united in marriage on July 3, 1946. To this union two daughters were born: Cheryl Kay and Brenda Rae. The family settled in Avoca and bought the Avoca Cold Storage - a full service butcher shop. Helen and Harold worked together in this adventure.

Helen was always a loving and devoted wife and mother, and a wonderful Christian witness. Following the death of Harold in 1971, Helen returned to her home town in South Carolina and went to work at Monroe's where she packaged calculators. After an early retirement, Helen enjoyed having company, going places and visiting friends and family. She took pleasure in the outdoors, sewing, Iris and Peony gardening, cultivating large vegetable gardens and canning. In 2004 she moved to Richardson, Texas where she spent her remaining years.

Helen became a resident of the Heritage Manor Health Care Center in Plano, Texas and this is where she went to heaven on May 28, 2007, having attained the age of eighty six years, six months and fourteen days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband; four brothers: O'Neil, Herman, Vaughn and Smyrle Keisler and two sisters: Roberta Karan and Margaret Rankin.

Survivors include her daughters: Cheryl and her husband Phil Musfeldt of Richardson, Texas; Brenda Johnson of Copperhill, Tennessee; one grandson Joel Musfeldt of Richardson, Texas; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends. She will be greatly missed by those who loved and knew her.

Funeral Services were held on Friday, June 1, 2007 at 10:30 Am at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Dennis Reich as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Marvin Piittmann, Alan Sieh, Phil Musfeldt, Otto Faaborg and Gary Lorenzen. Interment was held at Cuppy’s Grove Cemetery in rural Walnut, Iowa.

Barbara J. Johnston - Age 62

Barbara Jane "Janie" Johnston, daughter of Paul and Edna B. (Schnellar) Frazier, was born on January 4, 1948, in Woodstock, Illinois. She later moved with her family to the Dunlap area where she attended school.

Janie began working at Goodwill and in the hotel industry working her way up to a management position. She enjoyed collecting small trinkets, Precious Memories figurines, and butterfly figurines. Family was very important to Janie and she treasured the time she spent with them. All of her grandchildren were very special to her.

On February 13, 1979, Barbara was united in marriage to Dennis Johnston in New York.

Janie loved to spend time outdoors camping and fishing. She also enjoyed putting puzzles together, crocheting, and knitting.

Janie died on Monday, May 10, 2010, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of sixty-two years, four months, and six days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Karman Mosher and her granddaughter, Iyeshah Dawn Silva Johnston.

She is survived by her children: Kandy Max of Harlan, Iowa; Larry Rock and his wife Peggy of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; Kookie and her husband Donald LaHair of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Kristal McDonald of Harlan, Iowa; nineteen grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; her siblings: Mary Simard of New York; Elizabeth and her husband Richard Krotfer of Munster, Indiana; Deloris and her husband Robert Drilling of Lake View, Iowa; Paula and her husband James Kirby of Missouri Valley, Iowa; Joyce and her husband John Leckband of Sutherland, Iowa; Larry Paul Frazier and his wife Sandy of Cherokee, Iowa; and Bill Frazier and his wife Kathy of Burnside, Iowa; many nieces and nephews; other family members and many friends.

A Memorial Service was held on Saturday, May 15, 2010, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, with Pastor Roy North officiating the 1:00 PM service.

Mary Ann Johnston - Age 79
     Mary Ann Johnston was born on October 16, 1931 to Joseph and Pearl (Smith) Schmidt in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic church. She attended Roosevelt High School and graduated with the Class of 1949.
     On October 27, 1949, she was united in marriage to Donald L. Johnston at St. Kevin’s Catholic Church in Minneapolis. Three children were born to this union: Tom, Kathy, and Richard.
     Mary Ann worked as a secretary at a General Motors parts business as well as Unisys in Minneapolis for many years. She had also worked as a waitress and volunteered as a grandma for school children when they needed her. She especially enjoyed her own grandchildren: Lilli, Bella, Matt, Elizabeth, and Emma and her great-granddaughter Claire.
     She lived in the Westridge Apartments in Harlan before being admitted to Elm Crest Retirement Community two weeks before her death on Thursday, May 19, 2011. She had attained the age of seventy-nine years, seven months, and three days. She was preceded in death by her parents.
     Mary Ann is survived by her children: Tom Johnston of Omaha, Nebraska, Kathy and her husband Tom Tremmel of Harlan, Iowa, and Richard Johnston and his wife Christine of Clarinda, Iowa; five grandchildren: Lilli, Bella, Matt, Elizabeth and Emma; great-granddaughter Claire; brother Bob Schmidt and his wife Linda of Cross Lake, Minnesota; other family members and friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Michael’s Catholic Church on Monday, May 23, 2011. Serving as casket bearers were Rob Hall, Tom Ludwig, Tom Ouren, Dick Dotzler, John Helling, and Randy Greer. Inurnment was held at Assumption Cemetery in Richfield, Minnesota.

Nicolette "Nikki" Johnston - Age 22
     Nicolette "Nikki" Marie Johnston was born on November 1, 1989, at the Hamilton County Hospital in Webster City, Iowa to Michael "Mick" and Angie (Koolhof) Johnston.
     A long-time Harlan, Iowa resident, Nikki was a 2008 graduate of Harlan Community High School. While attending Harlan Schools, she participated in many talented and gifted programs, dance, and poms.
     She attended classes in Council Bluffs at Iowa Western Community College and most recently at Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, Nebraska. She had been a swimming instructor and was an excellent writer and artist.
     Nikki was employed as a customer service representative at TAC Air in Omaha where she enjoyed greeting guests and welcoming celebrities to Omaha.
     Nikki died tragically in a motor vehicle accident on Friday, January 13, 2012, having attained the age of twenty-two years, two months, and twelve days. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Albert Koolhof and special neighbors Keith and Neva Blankenship.
     She is survived by her parents Mick and Angie (Koolhof) Johnston of Harlan, Iowa; sister Jandy and brother Dirk of Harlan; dear friend Jack Thomas of Omaha, Nebraska; grandparents Clara Johnston and Ruth Koolhof of Webster City, Iowa and Charles Johnston of Minneapolis, Minnesota; aunts and uncles: Pat Johnston and his wife Kara of Shawnee, Kansas, Brenda and her husband Dan Johnston and Kathy and her husband Ron Birkestrand all of Webster City, Iowa, Jim Koolhof and his wife Deb of West Des Moines, Iowa, Jeannie and her husband Mick Ascherl of Omaha, Nebraska, Maureen and her husband Ken Lough of Marion, Iowa, and Jani and her husband Kevin Deaver of Ankeny, Iowa, more than thirty close cousins; other family members and many more close friends.
     Rev. John Dorton celebrated the 11:00 am Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were: Nathan Rouse, Andrew Birkestand, David Leuckee, Ben Hansen, Dane Johnston, Patrick Aschel, Sean Jensen, Kate Jensen and Jordan Rouse. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan.

Chrystal L. McMartin-Jones - Age 32
     Chrystal Lynn McMartin was born on March 14, 1978 in Atlantic, IA to Kelly and Darlene (Wendt) McMartin. Chrystal was raised and lived in Hancock, IA. She graduated from AHST High School in 1996 in Avoca, IA, attended Simpson College in Indianola from 1996-1998 and was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Chrystal graduated from Buena Vista University in 2005 with a degree in Psychology. She is a member of the Hancock United Methodist Church and the Hancock Legion Auxiliary.
     At the age of 1, Chrystal was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. In 1992, she received a wish from the Make-A-Wish foundation to travel to Walt Disney World. On June 13, 1999, after being on the transplant list for 2 years, Chrystal received a double-lung transplant at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During her mo nth recovery, the family was able to stay at Ronald McDonald House.
     On March 26, 2005 Chrystal married Shawn Jones of Omaha, NE. They were married at Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha and the reception followed in Treynor, IA.
     Chrystal enjoyed boating, riding her wave runner, and hanging out at Lake Okoboji. She also enjoyed shopping, spending time with the DW’s, following her cousin Jodi’s band, getting tattoos, Facebooking, and being around her many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Chrystal will be remembered most for her beautiful smile, contagious laughter, and giving ‘the finger’ with a smile at every photographic opportunity. Chrystal lived life to its fullest and without any regrets. At the time of her death, Chrystal worked at Fred Meyer Jewelry in Council Bluffs.
     Chrystal passed away on July 23, 2010, at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, IL, having attained the age of 32 years, 4 months, and 9 days. Chrystal never gave up and fought till the very end. She was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Keith and Esther McMartin, maternal grandparents Charles and Lucille Wendt, and uncle, Richard Wendt, DDS. Survivors include her parents, Kelly and Darlene of Hancock; a sister, Amy and friend, Josh, of Joliet, IL; two brothers, Travis and Justin (Kathleen) all of Hancock; three nieces, Alexis, Alyssa, and Maria; ex-husband, Shawn Jones of Omaha; step-son, Jordan; five god-children; Payton Kalambokidis, Ryan Sigler, Alyssa and Maria McMartin, and Natalie Vana; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
     We miss you. We love you. You will forever be in our hearts.
     Rev. Doug Cue officiated the 1:00 P.M. service at AHST High School in Avoca, Iowa on Tuesday, July 27, 2010. Honorary casket bearers were: The DW’s, Sandy Houk, Hilleary Holmes, Jenna Heistand, Maria Magnussen and Mikala Monahan. Serving as casket bearers were: Kevin Kuhl, Greg Wendt, Curtis Jensen, Charles Wendt III, Eric Wendt, Vince Guyer, Tony Claussen and Jason King. Interment was held at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Lola D. Jones - Age 72

Lola Dell Jones, daughter of Howard A. And Zola Grace (Bamsey) Jones, was born on June 16, 1937, in Harlan, Iowa. She attended Shelby Schools in Shelby, Iowa and was a member of the United Congregational Church of Christ in Harlan.

Lola was very active with the women’s circle at the church. She could often be found in the kitchen helping with lunches and making noodles and coffee.

Lola worked at Shelby Produce, the Blue Star in Council Bluffs, and later at Harlan Produce. She also was a housekeeper for elderly people. Lola continued to work until her health declined.

Lola died on Friday, September 12, 2009, at Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, having attained the age of seventy-two years, two months, and twenty-six days. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Verle.

She is survived by her sister Bonnie Donaldson of Harlan; several nieces and nephews; cousins; other family members and friends.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, September 16, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Donna Ewert officiated the 1:00 PM service with interment at the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were: Steve Yates, LaVerne Holtmeyer, Eddy Roos, David Rhiner, Gene Wilwerding, and Larry Wunder.

Rick Jones - Age 46
     Richard Trafton Jones, son of Richard A. and Patricia (Trafton) Jones, was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa on January 3, 1965. He was baptized at St. Peter’s Catholic Church and started school at Tinley Grade School all in Council Bluffs. For a short time he was called "Ricky" but he soon answered to the name Rick.
     In 1971, Rick moved with his family to Harlan, Iowa, where he attended grade school at St. Michael’s Catholic School and graduated from Harlan Community High School with the class of 1983. During high school, Rick was a member of the wrestling and golf teams. Rick also worked at his father’s monument company all throughout high school. He enjoyed working with his hands, fixing things and shape carving granite. In the fall of 1983, Rick enrolled at Iowa Western Community College where he received his associates degree in auto mechanics in 1985. After graduating, Rick worked in Iowa City, Iowa for a short time at Johnson Ford, then moved to Council Bluffs where he worked at Johnnies Restaurant in South Omaha and later worked at Pefferonies Restaurant in Council Bluffs.
     After a few years, Rick lost interest in auto mechanics and decided to enroll at the Monument Industries Design School in Barre, Vermont where he studied advanced monument design and graduated in 1989.
     On October 26, 1991 he was united in marriage to Marybeth "Betts" Blum at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church in Omaha, Nebraska. After their marriage, they made their home in Omaha, where their two children, Allyson and Bradley were born. He worked for Excel Cabinetry with some of Bett’s brothers in Omaha. Rick later commuted to Harlan, Iowa and started Midwest Monument Company with his father.
     In 1997, Rick and Betts moved to Harlan, Iowa where he continued with his wife to operate Midwest Monument. They joined St. Michael’s Catholic Church where they were active members with Rick serving a term on the Parish Council. During the remodeling of St. Michael’s, Rick was instrumental in the construction of the granite baptismal fountain. In addition to St. Michael’s, Rick was a member of the Iowa Monument Builders Association and the Monument Builders of North America.
     Rick’s family and friends were the most important things in his life. He was always doing favors for them. If you needed him for something, he came when he was called. He enjoyed his work, nature and especially fishing. He remodeled much of his own home, built his own double car garage and enjoyed creating monuments of beauty and distinction . He believed in the "measure five times, cut once" philosophy. Rick was recently united with his daughter, Hollie Jacobsen. Rick, Betts, Ally and Brad welcomed Hollie into their family and love her dearly.
     Rick died at University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska on June 8, 2011, having attained the age of forty-six years, five months and five days. Preceding Rick in death were his grandparents, Everett and Mary Jones, Dr. Harold and Bee Trafton and his father-in-law, Lyle Blum.
     He is survived by his wife, Betts Jones, their children: Allyson and Bradley all of Harlan, Iowa and his daughter Hollie Jacobsen and her fiancé Jared Wedemeyer of Brayton, Iowa, his granddaughter Kassidy; his parents: Pat Jones of Harlan and Richard and his wife Christine Jones of Harlan; his brother and sisters: Deb and her husband Rowly Burton of Irwin, Iowa, Deanne and her husband Craig Kroger of Harlan, Beth and her husband Scott Andersen of Pella Iowa, Michael Jones of Harlan; step brothers Mark Tech and his wife Kathy and Randy Tech and his wife Mary all of Council Bluffs, Iowa and step sister Teresa Tech of Omaha, Nebraska; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Rev. John Frost celebrated the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Pete Sutton, Brian Christensen, Larry Miller, Gaige Petersen, Michael P. Jones, and Joey Petsche. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa.

Memorials may be made to:
Jones Family Trust Fund

Walter Raymond Jones - Age 95

Walter Raymond Jones, son of Oliver and Edith (Harold) Jones, was born on February 6, 1912, in Mountain Grove, Missouri. When he was eight months old, his family traveled by covered wagon to Rooks County, Kansas. The journey took six weeks. There he lived in a sod house and attended school. After the Dust Bowl days, Walter's family moved to a farm south of Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Walter met Clara Babbitt at a neighborhood church gathering and were married a short time later on February 27, 1933, in Omaha, Nebraska. The young couple started their married life on a farm near Hastings, Iowa. Walter and Clara were blessed with two children; a daughter, LaDonna, who died December 20, 2000 and a son, Gerald.

The family moved to the Marne, Iowa area, in 1936, the year of the big snow storm. In 1945, they moved to the Walnut, Iowa, area and farmed for forty-five years before retiring to an acerage. In 2000 they then made their home at Peace Haven Retirement Home in Walnut and continued to attend the Monroe Methodist Church in rural Walnut.

Walter and Clara lived happily together for seventy-two years before poor health separated them. They moved to the Heritage House in Atlantic, Iowa, in 2004 and it was there that Clara died on April 30, 2005. Walter died at the Heritage House on January 2, 2008, having attained the age of ninety-five years, ten months and twenty-seven days. In addition to his parents, wife and daughter, Walter was preceded in death by his brother Gerrald.

Walter is survived by his son, Gerald and daughter-in-law, Marilyn Jones of Flippin, Arkansas; a son-in-law, Robert Lefrentz of Walnut, Iowa; six grandchildren, four step grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Dale and his wife Eileen Jones of Emerson, Iowa; Harold and his wife Elsie Jones of Michigan and his sister Betty Streeter of Old Hickory, Tennessee; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held Monday, January 7, 2008, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Avoca, Iowa. Pastor Dave Swinton officiated the 10:30 AM service with burial at the Monroe Township Cemetery in rural Walnut, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Kreig Namanny, Julienne Crews, Kerry Namanny, Kevin Namanny, Scott Jones, and Kenny Namanny.

Patsy M. Juhl - Age 77
     Patsy Marie Juhl was born to Lester M. and Winnifred O. (Blain) Juhl on October 26, 1933 in Irwin, Iowa.
     At a young age, Patsy moved to an institution in Glenwood, Iowa. Over the course of her life she moved to various places including Nishna Productions in Shenandoah, Iowa. She was a resident in Shenandoah for over twenty years. Here she kept busy with the daily activities. She enjoyed attending church, as well as watching television and attending local dances. She also enjoyed calling her siblings every Sunday to visit with them.
     Patsy moved to Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa in April of 2002. This is where she died on Monday, May 23, 2011 having attained the age of seventy-seven years, six months and twenty-seven days. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister-in-law Patti Juhl.
     She is survived by her brothers: Leroy Allen Juhl and his wife Leta of Las Vegas, Nevada, James Juhl of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Jerry Juhl and his wife Shirley of Las Vegas; sister Shirley and her husband Ken Dickey of Glendale, Arizona; uncle David Blain of Council Bluffs; cousins; and nieces and nephews.
     Private services were held in the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa.

Virgil V. Juhl - Age 78

Virgil Vernon Juhl was born on January 15, 1930 in Irwin, Iowa, to John and Lille (Paulsen) Juhl. He attended country school in the Irwin area and played baseball and basketball before graduating from high school. He began his lifelong career in farming after graduation in 1947.

He was married to Ruth Dirgo on August 27, 1950 in Omaha, Nebraska. Four children were born to this union: Judith, Randy, Dennis, and Dawn.

On March 14, 1981, Virgil was united in marriage to Marla Shrimpton and added her three children, Douglas, Elvin, and Sonia, to his family. They were members of Elk Horn Lutheran Church in Elk Horn, Iowa.

Virgil coached Pee Wee baseball, loved working in his garden, telling jokes, and spending time with his grandchildren. He loved animals and had his favorite Shetland pony.

Virgil retired in 1991 and he and Marla moved to Elk Horn, Iowa, in 1995. He became a resident of Salem Lutheran Home in July of 2007.

Virgil died on Monday, September 8, 2008, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of seventy-eight years, seven months, and twenty-four days. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Wayne and LeVern.

He is survived by his wife Marla Juhl of Elk Horn, Iowa, his daughter Judith and her husband Lars Larsen of Aledo, Illinois, his sons Randy Juhl of De Witt, Iowa and Dennis Juhl and his wife Judy of Roland, Iowa, and daughter Dawn and her husband Edward Stevens of Walnut, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren; stepsons Douglas Shrimpton of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Elvin Shrimpton of Clarinda, Iowa; stepdaughter Sonia Kutchel of Manning, Iowa; sisters Dorothy and her husband Junior Holloway of Harlan, Iowa and Marcia Holloway of Harlan; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, September 11, 2008, at 10:30 AM with Pastor Keith Menter of Elk Horn Lutheran Church officiating at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were John Juhl, Will Juhl, Sam Juhl, Nathan Jensen, Brice Shrimpton, and Nick Schultes with interment held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa.

Lucille M. Jurschak - Age 94

Lucille Marie Jurschak, daughter of Anthony and Anna (Skalla) Herkenrath, was born in Portsmouth, Iowa, on June 24, 1915. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, where she remained a devoted, lifetime member. She attended St. Mary’s Grade School and graduated from St. Mary’s High School with the class of 1933.

Lucille married Peter Jurschak on September 10, 1935, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. She and Peter had three beautiful daughters: Peggy, Micky and Judy. Although she always considered herself a city girl, after her marriage, Lucille made her home on the farm, quickly becoming a devoted wife and able farmer.

Over the years, and maybe because she was blessed with a long life, Lucille became the matriarch of the family. Relatives and friends turned to her for family and community information. In addition to her wealth of historical knowledge about the people of Portsmouth, Lucille had a passion for social networking - a passion for which she certainly was ahead of her time. Her passion led to very fulfilling and enduring job as the Portsmouth correspondent for the Harlan Newspapers. She held this position for over half a century, resigning in 2008. Lucille also was active in local politics, holding the position of Chairman of the Shelby County Democratic Party for several years. Her activities made her a natural for her participation in writing the history book for Portsmouth’s 100th and 125th year celebrations. As Portsmouth’s oldest resident, Lucille was honored with a convertible ride in the most recent parade.

Lucille was very conspicuous in Portsmouth, and not just because she was Portsmouth’s oldest resident. Lucille had style. She loved hats and fashion. Whenever Lucille went out, she almost always appeared perfectly dressed, and adorned with just the perfect hat. Of course, her hair, make up and jewelry were also all properly in place. Lucille shared with her family her love of cooking and baking, and all that knew her looked forward to sampling her latest creations. Lucille also loved to play the piano and organ, go dancing, play cards, and work in her garden. She enjoyed her vacation trips with Margaret Jurschak in the motor home, visiting her family and friends, especially her brother in California. She always followed Creighton Blue Jay basketball, but loved baseball, especially the New York Yankees (who must have won the World Series just for her).

Lucille died at Lakeside Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska on November 7, 2009, having attained the impressive age of ninety-four years, four months and fourteen days. She was preceded in death by her husband Pete, her parents, and her brother, Vernon Herkenrath. Survivors include her daughters and their husbands: Peggy and her husband Nicholas Thielen of Omaha, Nebraska, Micky and her husband Dean Gau of Portsmouth, Iowa, and Judy and her husband Bob Hicks of Leawood, Kansas; eight grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, special friend of the family Ray Pitsch, and countless other relatives and friends; and of course, the entire town of Portsmouth. Lucille will be missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, November 10, 2009, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Rev. John Dorton celebrated the 10:30 AM service. Interment was held at St. Mary’s cemetery in Portsmouth with Scott Gau, Z. Dean Lehrman, Rob Thielen, Robbie Hicks, Nicholas Thielen, Cody Thielen, and Mark Thielen serving as casket bearers.

James "Jim" Justice - Age 50

James "Jim" William Justice, son of Clifford and Frances (Scott) Justice, was born on June 27, 1958, in Sioux City, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Irwin and graduated Valedictorian from Irwin-Kirkman High School with the class of 1976. Jim continued his education at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and graduated in 1978 with a B.A. in agriculture. After school, Jim moved back to the Irwin area and began farming. Jim received his pilot’s license in 1983 and enjoyed spending time in the air.

When Jim wasn’t busy working, he could often be found on the golf course, mainly the Rosman-Glendale Farm Golf Course north of Harlan, Iowa. Jim loved sports and participated on many local softball and volleyball teams. He also enjoyed skiing and looked forward to his yearly trip to Colorado with his friends. When Jim wasn’t outside playing sports, he enjoyed being inside cheering on his Chicago Bears.

Jim was a "man of the land" and knew he wanted to farm from a young age. In 1984, Jim purchased his current farm in Polk Township near Irwin. He was very proud of his home and was always updating it using his skills in woodworking. Jim continued to be active in the community and was President of the Shelby County Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Company.

Jim loved to visit his brother and sister-in-law, John and Marcy, at their summer home in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He loved the swimming and boating that the area offered (and of course, the golfing).

Jim died on Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa, having attained the age of fifty-years, eleven months, and twenty-nine days. He is preceded in death by his sister Jane Ellen Justice who died in February 2009 and his nephew James Stuart "Jack" Justice.

He is survived by his parents Clifford and Frances Justice of Irwin, Iowa; his brother John Justice and his wife Marcy of Edina, Minnesota; two nephews: Chuck and Doug Justice; his aunts and uncles: Howard Justice and his wife Norma of Ankeny, Iowa; Darlene Justice of Irwin, Iowa; and Roberta Bradley of Oceanside, California; other family members and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, June 29, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Pastor Keith Pals officiating the 10:30 AM service. Interment was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin, Iowa, with Jim’s nephews, John Charles Justice and Douglas Richard Justice, acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Mike Fara, Scott Whitfield, Jeff Leinen, Rowly Burton, Mike Feldman, Greg Gaskill and Allen Hoffmann.

Russel S. Justice - Age 79
     Russel S. Justice was born on August 14, 1927, on a farm near Manilla, Iowa, to Ralph and Alta (Chamberlain) Justice. Russel attended Manilla High School, graduating in 1945. He farmed until January of 1951, when he enlisted in the United States Army. After his basic training, he was sent to Japan for his schooling and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. Russel was honorably discharge from the service in October of 1952. He returned to Iowa and continued his farming career.
     On February 19, 1956, Russel was united in marriage to Darlene Petersen at the Frieden Evangelical Church in Schleswig, Iowa. Two children were born to this union: his daughter Diane, and his son Gary. Russel and Darlene farmed near his hometown of Manilla until 1958. It was that year that they moved to their present farm near Irwin, Iowa, and where he remained. Russel was a member of the Irwin United Methodist Church.
     Russel was an avid college football fan and would cheer for the Iowa Hawkeyes as well as the Iowa State Cyclones. He loved to spend time with his family and especially loved dancing with his wife of fifty-one years. He also had a special fondness for his Farmall M tractor that kept him farming for over fifty years.
     Russel was admitted to Myrtue Medical Center on March 7, 2007, and it was there that he died having attained the age of seventy-nine years, six months, and twenty-one days. He was preceded in death by his parents, and five brothers: Earl, Kenneth, George, Harold, and Amos.
     Russel is survived by his wife Darlene Justice of Irwin, Iowa; his daughter Diane and her husband Randy Breach of Atlantic, Iowa; his son Gary Justice of Irwin; his grandsons Scott Breach and Dave Breach, both of Atlantic; two brothers: Clifford and his wife Frances Justice of Irwin and Howard and his wife Norma Justice of Ankeny, Iowa, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.
     A funeral service was held on Friday, March 9, 2007, with Pastor Keith Pals officiating at the 1:00 PM service held at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Leo Klotz, Roger Rusch, Leon Klotz, Scott Breach, Dave Breach, and Jim Justice. Military rites were held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, by the Harlan American Legion Helmer Reyelt Post No. 150 and the Shelby County VFW Post No. 941.

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