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Quality Funeral & Family Care

Main Location
Pauley Jones

P.O. Box 70

1304 9th Street

Harlan, Iowa 51537-0070

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

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

Link to Past Obituaries

Pauley Jones Funeral Homes

"Avoca Chapel"

Margaret Lillian Raber - Age 90

Margaret Lillian Raber, daughter of Fredrick S. and Azalia (Graves) Pexton, was born October 6, 1916, in Harlan, Iowa. She attended schools in Irwin, Audubon and later graduated from East High in Des Moines with the class of 1934.

After high school, Margaret attended Drake University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1939. The following autumn, she began her teaching career at Kanawha High School in Iowa.

On July 19, 1942, Margaret was united in marriage with Donald A. Raber at the Wesley Methodist Church in Des Moines, Iowa. While Donald was serving his country over seas during World War II, Margaret continued teaching in Corwith, Iowa. After Donald’s honorable discharge from the United States Army, Margaret worked as a substitute teacher and tutor in Kanawha. In 1955, Donald and Margaret farmed in Kossuth and Humboldt counties in Iowa until 1962 when they moved to her grandparent’s farm five miles east of Harlan.

Margaret was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School and held offices in the United Methodist Women. She was also a 50 year member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary. Donald died on May 3, 2002, and Margaret continued to make her home in Harlan. Margaret died on October 28, 2006, at Elm Crest Retirement Center in Harlan having attained the age of ninety years and twenty-two days. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her daughters: Jane Lowery and Joyce Raber and her sister Mary Ellen May.

Margaret is survived by her children: Jerry Raber of Waterloo, Iowa, Judy and her husband Steve Konecne of Hardy, Iowa, and Janice and her husband (Mark) Boeding of Columbus, Nebraska; her son-in-law, David Lowery of Chandler, Arizona; her grandchildren: Melissa Dalton, Benjamin Konecne, Maggie Konecne, Luke Boeding, Angela Boeding, Tony Boeding, Anna Boeding, Mary Boeding, Monica Boeding, Matt Boeding and Michael Boeding; her great grandsons: Seth and Evan Dalton; her brother, Fred C. Pexton of Rochester, Minnesota; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Tuesday October 31, 2006 at the United Methodist Church at 1:30 P.M. with Rev Dave Swinton and Rev. Ron Kitterman officiating. Interment was held at Bowman’s Grove with Luke Boeding, Tony Boeding, Matthew Boeding, Michael Boeding, Mark Boeding, Benjamin Konecne, and David Lowery serving as casket bearers.

Adeline A. Ratigan - Age 90

Adeline Agnes Ratigan, the daughter of John and Agnes (Muell) Buckley, was born September 14, 1914, on a farm in rural Panama, Iowa. She attended school at St. Mary’s in Panama and was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary of Assumption Catholic Church in Panama where she has been a lifetime member.

Adeline was united in marriage to Patrick Ratigan at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in 1936. They were the parents of six children. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Ratigan farmed until 1949, when they moved into Panama where Adeline was a homemaker. Together they were very active in St. Mary’s church as well as the school. She was not just a homemaker by any means. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and very proud grandmother.

Adeline loved flowers and cared for them with such tenderness and patience. She also ran her own bakery for several years out of her home. Pat and Adeline continued to make their home in Panama until February 6, 1998, when Pat became a resident of Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling, Iowa. Adeline continued to make her home in Panama.

Adeline died Wednesday, September 22, 2004, at the Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of ninety years and eight days. In addition to her parents, Adeline was preceded in death by her husband, Patrick and her brothers and sisters, Mary Kurtz, Phyllis Morris, Edward, Damon, John, Phillip, and Marcus Buckley.

She is survived by her two daughters, Janet Block of Bellevue, Nebraska and Patty Ratigan of Panama, Iowa; four sons, Jim and his wife Bonnie Ratigan of Omaha, Nebraska; Gary Ratigan of Ankeny, Iowa, Denny of Yutan Nebraska, and Tom of Omaha, Nebraska; nineteen grandchildren; thirty-three great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, September 24, 2004 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa with Rev. John Dorton as the Celebrant. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Ratigan, Tom Ratigan, Denny Ratigan and Gary Ratigan. Interment was in the St. Mary Cemetery in Panama, Iowa.

Kathleen "Katy" M. Rattenborg - Age 83

Kathleen "Katy" Marie Rattenborg, the daughter of Peter and Anna D. Larsen Rattenborg, was born on May 2, 1921, at Kimballton, Iowa. She attended school at Kimballton until the eleventh grade when she and her family moved to Harlan, Iowa. Katy was a member of the graduating class of 1938 from Harlan Community High School. Upon graduation, Katy went to Business School in Omaha, Nebraska.

After attending Business School, Katy was employed at Norgaard Drug Store in Harlan, Iowa. She was employed there for forty-five years. Katy later worked as a bookkeeper for Mosher Construction.

Katy was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan as well as the church choir. Family was important to her and she lived with her parents and took care of them until their death. She enjoyed family vacations. Katy was an avid reader and loved the St. Louis Cardinals. Katy would watch games on the television and at the same time listen to another on the radio.

Katy died on Thursday, January 20, 2005, at the Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-three years, eight months and eighteen days. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her sisters, Dorothy Mosher of Harlan, Iowa and Shirley Boysen of Harlan, Iowa; ten nieces and nephews, Randy and Reid Mosher, Jim, Tom, Ron and Greg Boysen, Lynn McDowell, Becky McCleery, JoAnn Schauer and Marsha Larson; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2005 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan, Iowa with Pastor Heather Ploen officiating. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa with Randy Mosher, Jim Boysen, Reid Mosher, Tom Boysen, Greg Boysen and Ron Boysen serving as casket bearers.

Leonard L. Rau - Age 74

Leonard Louis Rau was born on May 12, 1932, to Gilbert and Lidwina (Eisterhold) Rau in Earling, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa. Leonard attended school at St. Boniface Catholic School in Westphalia.

Leonard was united in marriage to Alice Schleimer on May 26, 1955 at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. There were nine children born to this union: Connie, Joan, Ronda, Gary, Jolene, Bob, Craig, Leslie, and Keri.

He and Alice raised their family and farmed near Portsmouth, Iowa. In 1967, he bought G & R Feed and Grain and moved the family to Portsmouth in 1968. Leonard served on the town council as well as the Portsmouth Centennial Committee and the Portsmouth Volunteer Fire Department. He coached Little League and was involved in various other groups and organizations. He retired from G & R Feed and Grain in 1997.

Leonard enjoyed playing golf, getting together with his friends to play cards, beating his wife in cribbage, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed gardening, especially tending to his grapes. He enjoyed going to the dog track and named his first greyhound "Poor Leonard".

Leonard died on Thursday, February 22, 2007, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of seventy-four years, nine months, and ten days. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Lidwina Rau, his son Gary Rau, his brother Mike Rau and sisters Marie Grote and Lita Rau.

Leonard is survived by his wife of fifty-one years, Alice Rau of Portsmouth, Iowa; his children: Connie and her husband Larry Mick of Omaha, Nebraska, Joan and her husband Dan Schechinger of Harlan, Iowa, Ronda and her husband Randy Schaben of Portsmouth, Jolene Jacobs of Omaha, Bob and his wife Donna Rau of Lincoln, Nebraska, Craig Rau and his friend Amy Schafer of Portsmouth, Leslie and her husband Jamie Goetz of Defiance, Iowa, and Keri and her husband Gary Holstein of Lincoln; brothers and sisters: Dorothy Gaul of Earling, Iowa, Leo and his wife Jane Rau of Omaha, Zita Bruck of Earling, Alma and her husband Paul Bissen of Harlan, Jeanette and her husband Dick Mikels of Portsmouth, Martha Mumm of Harlan, Mervin and her husband Nels Nelson of Kerrville, Texas, Verla and her husband Charles Mumm of Dunlap, Iowa, Patricia Kuether of Pierce, Nebraska, Gilbert Jr. and his wife Mary Anne of Lander, Wyoming, and Judy and her husband Richard Jones of Omaha; eighteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, February 27, 2007, with Rev. John Dorton officiating the 10:00 AM service at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Dave Schechinger, Dallas Schechinger, Lisa Schechinger, Stephany Coenen, Becky Tobin, and Christen Mick. Serving at casket bearers were Connie Mick, Joan Schechinger, Ronda Schaben, Jolene Jacobs, Bob Rau, Craig Rau, Leslie Goetz, and Keri Holstein. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa.

Viola E. Reed - Age 85 Viola Reed

Viola Elizabeth Reed, the daughter of John and Flora Viola Meyer Griffith, was born on September 26, 1919 at Walnut, Iowa. She attended Walnut School and was a member of the graduating class of 1937 from Walnut High School.

She was a member of Fellowship of Faith Church in Oakland, Iowa, and enjoyed family gatherings, spending time with her great-grandchildren, eating out, playing cards with her daughter, Faye, and Bingo at the nursing home.

On December 23, 1999, Viola became a resident of Northcrest Care and Rehabilitation Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. It was there that she died on Monday, December 6, 2004, having attained the age of eighty- five years, two months and ten days.

In addition to her parents, Viola was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Smith and her brothers, Frank, Fred, George, Alderman and Albert Griffith.

Survivors include her children, Faye Kephart of Council Bluffs, Iowa; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jody and her husband, Kelly Sharp of Council Bluffs, Iowa and Jeremy, Ashley and Michael Sharp; Shawn Brockman and his wife, Jennifer of LaVista, Nebraska, and Nathan Brockman; Todd Brockman of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Tyler, Trent and Trevor Brockman; Randy Kephart and his wife, Lani of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Joscelyn, Jordyn, Amanda and Nathan Kephart; her sons, David Fell and his wife, Diane of Crescent, Iowa; Richard Fell and his wife, Virginia of Albuquerque, New Mexico along with their children; her sister, Edith Cade of Harlan, Iowa, and her family; her sister-in-law, Betty Griffith of Walnut, Iowa; other relatives and many friends.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, December 11, 2004, at 1:30 PM at the First Presbyterian Church in Walnut, Iowa.

Dorothy Nadine Reid - Age 83

Dorothy Nadine Reid was born on July 11, 1923 to Robert and Ruth (Sargent) Larson in Glenwood, Minnesota, where she spent the first four years of her life. After moving to Harlan, Iowa, she attended the Harlan Community Schools and graduated with the Class of 1941.

Upon graduation, Dorothy was united in marriage to Malvern Reid on June 14, 1941 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Seven children were born to this union: Sheryl, Robert, Sandra, Constance, Debra, John, and Steven. After their marriage, Malvern was drafted into the United States Army and Dorothy raised her family in the Harlan area until his return in July of 1943.

After many years as a stay-at-home mom, Dorothy worked at Variety Distributors and owned and operated Reid’s Pink Petal Flower Shop with her husband. Dorothy kept the books and helped manage Reid Bus Lines, a business started by her husband. Dorothy and her husband liked to travel, went on several cruises, and visited family members in various U. S. cities. Family vacations revolved around boating and camping. She was an avid reader of both novels and periodicals with an insatiable desire to follow current events. That interest extended to volunteering at election polls. Dorothy enjoyed raising flowers and vegetables in the summer.

Dorothy spent a lot of time taking care of her husband as his health failed. They celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary in June of 2001 and Malvern died in November of 2001. Dorothy was also preceded in death by her parents and brother, Robert.

Dorothy died on Monday, January 22, 2007, at her home in Harlan, after battling renal disease. She had attained the age of eighty-three years, six months, and eleven days.

Dorothy is survived by her children Sheryl Reid of Ankeny, Iowa, Robert and wife Judith Reid of Torrance, California, Sandra and Robert Kleinpaste of Baltimore, Maryland, Constance Blum of Houston, Texas, Debra Reid of Harlan, Iowa, John and Vicky Reid of Logan, Iowa, and Steven and Susan Reid of Harlan; a sister-in-law, Josephine Larson of Kansas City; seventeen grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, January 27, 200711:00 AM at the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa with Rev. Bob Hoefler officiating the service. Casket bearers were Justin Reid, Malvern John Reid III, Taylor Schleis, Ryan Schleis, David Weitl, Adam Helget, Jeffrey Reid. Interment was at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa.

Cornelia Catherine Reinig - Age 95

Cornelia Catherine Reinig was born on February 26, 1911, to Peter and Josephine (Thielen) Schomer in Panama, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama and attended St. Mary’s Catholic School through the eighth grade.

On April 9, 1929, Cornelia was united in marriage to Matthias (M. J.) Reinig at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Panama. She was a homemaker while they lived in Panama raising their two daughters, Sharon and Peggy. She also helped her husband with farming at Panama and near Dunlap. After five years, they moved to Schleswig, Iowa, and purchased a milk business. They moved to California in 1942 while Matt worked for the Goodyear Tire Company but returned to the Panama area four years later where they resumed their farming.

Cornelia loved to sew and make quilts and was a member of a sewing circle. Her other love was music and she enjoyed playing for the residents in the nursing homes. She could play piano, organ, harmonica, and the accordion.

Cornelia lived on the farm after her husband died in May of 1989 and continued to live there with her daughter Peggy until moving to Elm Crest Assisted Living in Harlan, Iowa, in 2005. She became a resident of Little Flower Haven nursing home in Earling, Iowa, on November 24, 2006, and it was there that she died on Sunday, December 3, 2006, having attained the age of ninety-five years, nine months, and seven days.

Besides her parents and her husband Matt, Cornelia was preceded in death by an infant sister, Mildred, a brother, Robert, a grandson, Richard, and a great-grandson, Alex.

She is survived by her daughters Sharon and her husband Richard Crouch of Woodbridge, Virginia, and Peggy and her husband Bernard Swenson of Harlan, Iowa, seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, her sister Jean Schechinger of Portsmouth, Iowa, and brothers Ralph and his wife Betty Schomer of Arvada, Colorado, and Mickey and his wife Jean Schomer of Des Moines, Iowa, nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, December 7, 2006 at 11:30 AM in the St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. Rev. Robert Hoefler officiated. Serving as casket bearers were Gregg Yeutter, Don Schomer, Denis Kloewer, Scott Kenkel, Allen Kenkel, Craig Schomer, Gary Schaben, and Todd Stenberg. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Panama.

Irene Marie Reinig - Age 76

Irene Marie Reinig was born on February 27, 1930, on a farm near Panama, Iowa, one of nine children born to John and Margaret (Schwery) Reinig. She was baptized, received her first communion, and was confirmed at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama. She remained a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church until moving to Harlan, Iowa in 1989, when she became a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Irene graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1948 and went on to graduate from Barnes Cosmetology School in Council Bluffs, Iowa in 1960. She had her own shop in Harlan, "Reinig’s Beauty Salon". She enjoyed her work, was kind and helpful to everyone, and loved her patrons, even helping if they needed a ride. Irene retired in 1992 and traveled or toured extensively overseas and in our country.

Irene’s passion was gardening and she had a huge garden as well as a flower garden that were both always free of weeds. Her other hobbies were crocheting, tatting, and quilts. Irene showered her love on her pet dogs, her St. Bernard "Duke" and then a Labrador named "Pepper". Irene was also musically talented, being able to play piano and accordion. She was never too busy to entertain her nieces and nephews, often spoiling them with wiener roasts, Easter egg hunts, tea parties, and baking cookies.

Irene was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 1991 and spent time living at the Friendship Home in Audubon before becoming a resident of Rose Vista in Woodbine, Iowa, in 1997. It was there that she died on Wednesday, January 3, 2007, having attained the age of seventy-six years, ten months, and seven days.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret (Schwery) Reinig, her brothers Jerome and Leonard, and a brother-in-law, Kenneth Mouser. She is survived by her brothers Gerald and his wife LoAnne Reinig of Portsmouth, Iowa, Clarence and his wife Jann Reinig of Portsmouth, and Edward and his wife Betty Reinig of Harlan, Iowa; her sisters Helen Mouser of Wellington, Kansas, Dr. Alice Reinig and her husband Norm Schoenfeld of Del Mar, California, and Margie Taylor of Arvada, Colorado, two sisters-in-law, Rose Mary Reinig of Harlan and Sylvia Kepford of San Jacinto, California, thirty nieces and nephews, many great nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, January 6, 2007 beginning at 2:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s of the Assumption in Panama, Iowa, Rev. John Dorton officiating. Serving as casket bearers were Dave Reinig, Mark Reinig, John Reinig, Ralph Bruck and Richard Mouser. Interment was in held in the St. Mary’s Cemetery, in Panama, Iowa.

Robert J. Reinig - Age 81

Robert John Reinig, the son of August and Mary G. Kenkel Reinig, was born on January 25, 1923 in Panama, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa. He attended school and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Panama, Iowa. Robert entered into active service in the United States Navy on January 24, 1945 serving on a vessel in the Great Lakes and Kahului, Maui. He was honorably discharged in Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 13, 1946.

Robert was united in marriage to Virginia Leinen on April 20, 1948 at St. Mary’s Chapel in Portsmouth, Iowa. They were the parents of seven children: Larry, Duane, Marge, Lois, Sharon, Geri Ann and Ann. They were engaged in farming near the Portsmouth area. He enjoyed a daily ritual of having coffee at the round table at Mickel’s, Club 191 and the G & R Feed and Grain Company. He also enjoyed playing pitch at the Rocket in Portsmouth. Robert was a member of St. Mary’s parish in Panama until 1941 when they became members of St. Mary’s parish in Portsmouth, Iowa.

Robert died on Sunday, January 16, 2005 at his home near Portsmouth, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-one years, eleven months and twenty-two days. In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by two infant daughters: Geri Ann and Ann as well as his sister, Rosemary and his brother, August.

Survivors include his wife, Virginia of Portsmouth, Iowa; his children: Larry Reinig and his wife, Donna of Omaha, Nebraska; Duane Reinig and his wife, Linda of Portsmouth, Iowa; Marge Walsh of St. Louis, Missouri; Lois and her husband, Jim Crawford of Portsmouth, Iowa; Sharon and her husband, Terry Kohles of Omaha, Nebraska; fifteen grandchildren and one great grandchild; brothers and sisters: Rita Ohlinger of Portsmouth, Iowa; Theresa and her husband, Robert Krupicka of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Mary Slaven of Portsmouth, Iowa; Cecilia Tunnell of Orville, California; Catherine Schomers of Harlan, Iowa; Tony Reinig and his wife, Mildred of Harlan, Iowa; Joe Reinig and his wife, Arlene of Portsmouth, Iowa; Alvin Reinig and his wife, Mildred of Harlan, Iowa; Alfred Reinig and his wife, Betty of Kansas City, Kansas; and Donald Reinig and his wife, Joyce of Hood River, Oregon; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, January 19, 2005, at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa, at 10:30 A.M. with Rev. Ben Kenkel as the celebrant and Rev. Leonard Kenkel as the concelebrant. Military rites were conducted in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa, by the John Ohlinger Post No. 547 American Legion of Portsmouth, Iowa. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Desiri Wilwerding, Dana Walsh, Gina Crawford, Rachel Kohles, Renee Kohles, Lauren Kohles, and Lisa Kohles. Serving as casket bearers were Joe Walsh, Michael Pongruber, Paul Kohles, Brian Reining, Rob Crawford, Chad Reining, Scott Crawford, and Nick Walsh.

Joseph J. Reischl - Age 84

Joseph John Reischl, Jr., the son of Joseph and Pauline Schenk Reischl, was born January 15, 1921 in Defiance Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Joseph attended St. Paul’s Catholic School in Defiance.

He was inducted into the United States Navy on August 18, 1944 at Harlan, Iowa. Joseph was honorably discharged on May 22, 1946 at Minneapolis, Minnesota. After his discharge, Joseph returned to Shelby County. On January 19, 1948, he was united in marriage to Mary Kay Heese at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. To this union seven children were born: Bob, Linda, Don, Jim, Jay, Ann and Faye. They began farming in the spring of 1948 near Irwin, Iowa. They later relocated to a farm seven miles west of Earling, Iowa, where Joseph farmed until 1957 when they moved to a farm one mile west of Earling.

Joseph was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, the Parish Council and the Knights of Columbus Council No. 1741 of Earling, Iowa. He received the Soil Conservation Award in 1983. Joseph was a simple man who enjoyed his family very much. He had a sharp mind for detail and was an intelligent man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He died on Tuesday, July 26, 2005, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty-four years, six months and eleven days. In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Linda and his sister, Mary Ann Stephenson. Survivors include his wife, Mary Kay of Earling, Iowa; his children: Bob Reischl and his wife, Cindy of Fort Calhoun, Nebraska; Don Reischl and his wife Connie of Gretna, Nebraska; Jim Reischl and his wife, Sandy of Avoca, Iowa; Jay Reischl and his wife, Jeanine of Omaha, Nebraska; Ann and her husband, Ray Schechinger of Westphalia, Iowa; Faye and her husband, Dan Patten of Earling, Iowa; twenty-four grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters: Edwin Reischl and his wife, Irene of Manning, Iowa; Rev. Fred Reischl of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Cecilia and her husband, Harry Kleffman of Harlan, Iowa; Norbert Reischl and his wife, Nonie of Phoenix, Arizona; Leona and her husband, Don Smith of Elk Horn, Nebraska; other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, July 29, 2005, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Michael Berner as the celebrant. Military Rites were conducted in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling, Iowa, by the American Legion Post No. 615 of Earling, Iowa. Serving as casket bearers were Chad Reischl, Jeremy Schechinger, Todd Reischl, Brian Reischl, Jason Schechinger, Brad Reischl, Joseph Reischl, Adam Reischl and Jeffrey Reischl.

Karen J. Resh - Age 64

Karen Jean Resh was born on December 28, 1942, in Red Oak, Iowa, to Robert and Flossie (Wheeler) Resh. She attended elementary and high school in Corning, Iowa, graduating with the Class of 1960. After graduation, she began employment at Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company in Omaha, Nebraska, and remained there for twenty years.

She later continued her schooling by attending the University of Nebraska at Omaha, receiving her Masters Degree in Communications when she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2000.

She started Assist Business Services in Omaha writing professional resumés and helping people find employment. She worked there for ten years before becoming involved in economic development and working for Western Iowa Development Corporation in Avoca, Iowa, between 1994 and 1997. She also worked in the economic development offices of Delta T. where she researched and wrote grants in Hebron, Nebraska, and Denison, Iowa, before retiring in 2002 due to health reasons.

On February 17, 2007, she was united in marriage to Larry Paden at the First Presbyterian Church in Audubon, Iowa.

Karen died on Monday, October 30, 2007, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of sixty-four years, ten months, and one day. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Karen is survived by her husband Larry Paden of Audubon, Iowa; her son Mike Kallstrom of Omaha, Nebraska; three grandchildren: Jennifer, Kaleb, and Ben; her sisters: Kathy and her husband Delbert King of Clarinda, Iowa, Janice and her husband Richard Harvey of Prescott, Iowa, and Peggy Dehart of Red Oak, Iowa; her brother Bob Resh and his wife Audrey of Hastings, Iowa; nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

A Memorial Service was held on Friday, November 2, 2007, at 10:30 AM at the First Presbyterian Church in Audubon, Iowa, with Pastor Kay Steddom officiating. Becky Marten was the accompanist and Fred Zydek was the eulogist.

Mary M. Rhodes - Age 78

Mary M. Rhodes, the daughter of Walter and Pearl (Nelson) Lahey, was born September 6, 1928, on a farm in Adair County, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Catholic Church in Greenfield, Iowa, and graduated from Greenfield High School where she took normal training. She taught school in Adair County for three years.

On September 7, 1948, she was united in marriage to Floyd Rhodes at St. John’s Catholic Church in Greenfield. Three children were born to this union: Jane, Dennis and Mary Lynn. After their marriage, Mary was a stay at home mom, devoted to raising their children. In the spring of 1953, Floyd and Mary moved to Avoca, Iowa, where Floyd became the foreman for the Journal Herald Newspaper. At that time, they joined St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca and have been members ever since. In addition to church activities, Mary worked for a short time at Riesgaard Variety Store after her children were raised.

Mary was introduced to the game of golf by Floyd and, after the first few holes said, "I like this game." She not only liked the game but became very good at it, winning the club championship seven times. She belonged to the Women’s Golf Association, St. Mary’s Altar Society, Women’s Federated Club and the Avoca Garden Club. She also enjoyed gardening, playing bridge, and attending her children’s and grandchildren’s school activities.

Mary died on June 1, 2007, at Midland’s Hospital in Papillon, Nebraska, at the age of seventy-eight years, eight months and twenty-six days. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers and sisters: Leo, Bernard, Jim, Jack, Kathy and Anne and sister-in-law; Bonnie Lahey.

Survivors include her husband Floyd Rhodes of Avoca, Iowa; her children: Jane and her husband Joseph Henley of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Dennis Rhodes of Lake in the Hills, Illinois, and Mary Lynn Geisler of Overland Park, Kansas, and two grandchildren: Spencer Geisler and his wife Karen of Olathe, Kansas, and Tyler Geisler of Overland Park, Kansas. Other survivors include her brother and sisters; Helen and her husband Don Baudler of Fontenelle, Iowa, Angela and her husband Duane Pullen of Creston, Iowa and Bob and his wife Joyce Lahey of Council Bluffs, Iowa; sisters-in-law: Fern Lahey of Des Moines, Iowa, and Shirley and Dolores Lahey, both of Greenfield, Iowa; brother-in-law Don Funderburk of Omaha, Nebraska; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 4, 2007 at 10:30 AM at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, Iowa with Rev. John Frost as the Celebrant. Serving as casket bearers were Tyler Geisler, Spencer Geisler, Larry Friederich, Bob Hegna, Jim Baulder, and Ron Baulder. Interment was at the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca Iowa.

Helen M. Richards - Age 81

Helen Marie Richards, the daughter of John and Florence Weller White, was born on April 23, 1924 at Taylor County, Iowa. She attended school at Villisca, Iowa and it was there that she graduated. Upon graduation, Helen worked in Omaha at Safeway Grocery, where she met Normal through mutual friends while he was in the service.

On April 21, 1946, Helen was united in marriage to Normal G. Richards in Villisca, Iowa, at her parent’s home. Two sons were born to this union: Craig and Kent. After their marriage, Normal and Helen built their home in the Irwin, Iowa, area. Helen was employed at Paulsen’s Grocery, Steenhusen Furniture and Hardware for many years. She was later employed at the Baptist Memorial Home in Harlan, Iowa, until retiring in 1990. Normal died on February 11, 2000. Helen became a resident of the Manilla Manor in June of 2002.

Helen was a member of the Church of Christ in Irwin, Iowa, since 1946. She enjoyed embroidering tea towels and was an active member in the American Legion Auxiliary of Irwin. Helen was a dedicated wife and loving mother who cherished every moment she spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She died on Thursday, April 28, 2005, at the Manilla Manor in Manilla, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-one years, and five days. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Normal as well as her daughter-in-law Cindy and her grandson Eric.

Survivors include her sons, Craig Richards and his wife, Wanda of Elizabethtown, Kentucky; Kent Richards and his wife, Sandi of Irwin, Iowa; four grandsons; Bret Richards and his wife, Jill of Irwin, Aaron Richards and his wife, Brandi of Alpharetta, Georgia, Ryan Richards and his wife, Kim of Sartel, Minnesota and Nathan Richards, and his wife, Belinda of Carroll, Iowa; two step-granddaughters, Haley Nichols and Chelsea Baker of Elizabethtown, Kentucky; six great-grandchildren: Conner Richards, Samantha and Nicole Richards, Alyssa and Kalob Richards and Serenity Richards; her brother, Eldon White and his wife, Eva of Maryville, Missouri; her sisters-in-law, Arlene and her husband, Ed Barnum of Woodbine, Iowa and Opal and her husband, Jack Gaskill of Irwin, Iowa, nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, April 30, 2005, at the Church of Christ in Irwin, Iowa with Rev. Ted Sieck as the officiating minister. Interment was held at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Irwin with Bruce White, Lyle Shepard, Donnie Conz, Lynn Gaskill, Duane White and Jerry Luetje serving as casket bearers.

Quentin Rickers - Age 87

Quentin F. Rickers, son of William and Emma (Sohl) Rickers, was born on June 25, 1919, in Westside, Iowa where he was also baptized. He graduated from Harlan High School in Harlan, Iowa.

On November 30, 1941, Quentin was united in marriage to Phyllis Virginia Campbell at the First United Methodist Church in Harlan. Three children were born to this union: Douglas, Roger, and Linda.

Starting in 1941, Quentin farmed various farms in Shelby County until he settled on the family farm northeast of Harlan in 1948. He retired from farming in 1984. In the 1970's, he was a co-owner of the A&P Appliance Store in Harlan. In 1989, Quentin and Phyllis moved from the family farm to Harlan.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church. Quentin also was an active member of the Masonic Parian Lodge No. 321 of Harlan, Iowa; Abu-Bekr Shrine Temple of Sioux City, Iowa; the Harlan Shrine T Patrol, and Eastern Star.

During Quentin’s retirement years, Phyllis and he spent time relaxing at their place at Blackhawk Lake where Quentin loved to fish.

Quentin died on Friday, June 22, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months, and twenty-eight days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Roger, and his grandson Stephen Pederson.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, Phyllis of Harlan, Iowa; his children: Douglas Rickers and his wife Karen of Omaha, Nebraska and Linda and her husband Michael Pederson of Ankeny, Iowa; his daughter-in-law Joanne Patterson of Des Moines, Iowa; his sister Ruth Tetzloff of Ann Arbor, Michigan; his aunt Margaret Sohl of Gretna, Nebraska; five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

A funeral service was held on Monday, June 25, 2007, with Pastor Orris Drake officiating the 2:00 PM service at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Casket bearers were Dr. Tyler Rickers, Tiffany Rickers, John Campbell, Darwin Campbell, Brad Pederson, Mark Pederson, Trew Rickers, and Galen Grabill. Interment was at the Harlan Cemetery.

Edwin M. Rife - Age 87

Edwin Monty Rife, the son of Cecil and Ethel Petit Rife, was born on February 6, 1921 in Avoca, Iowa. He and his three sisters: Doyne, Bessie and Ruby lived with their parents on "the flat" in Avoca on an acreage where they had milk cows and other livestock. Eddie learned to care for the animals at an early age and during the Great Depression helped support the family with his paper route. He attended school in Avoca but left school after the eighth grade to work on the family farm when the family moved to Dunlap, Iowa.

Eddie served in the United States Navy near the end of World War II and received his honorable discharge on July 7, 1946. After the war he began operating earth moving equipment until he retired.

During his entire life Eddie loved horses and ponies. He farmed with horses and always loved draft animals. He began developing his interest by training his own draft ponies and then began building show wagons and show harnesses for draft horses. If you have seen show draft hitches you have probably seen harnesses built by Eddie Rife.

Edwin died on Thursday, March 13, 2008 at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa having attained the age of eighty-seven years, one month and seven days. He is preceded in death by his parents and three sisters: Bessie Russmann, Doyne Russmann and Ruby Weber.

Survivors include his nieces and nephews: Ferrell Weber and his wife Karen of Anaheim, California; Jane and her husband Mark Heim of Orange, California; Sharon and her husband Rev. William Simpson of Spring, Texas; Peggy Russmann of Omaha, Nebraska; Sheryl and her husband Jim Petersen of Omaha, Nebraska; Diane and her husband Mike Weigert of Gretna, Nebraska; Carole and her husband Randy Trively of Council Bluffs, Iowa; besides other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 1:00 PM with Wayne Paulsen as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Paul Lees, Charles Lees, Jim Peterson, Mick Ring, Bob Jacobsen and John Rich. Military Rites by Fred Funston Post No. 227 with interment at Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa.

Arrangements and Services for

Helen M. Robinson - Age 83

Who died on Thursday August 21, 2008

Visitation

Friday, August 22, 2008

5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Pauley Jones Funeral Home

Avoca, Iowa

Family Will Greet Friends

Friday, August 22, 2008

6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Funeral Service

Saturday, August 23, 2008

10:30 AM

Pauley Jones Funeral Home

Avoca, Iowa

Interment

Shelby Cemetery - Shelby, Iowa

Helen is survived by her children: Richard (Karen) Robinson of Beardstown, IL, Lois (Larry) Knop of Hancock, IA, David (Lori) Robinson of Shelby, IA, Daniel (Kim) Robinson of Shelby, and Darian Robinson of Shelby, eleven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and her brother John (Peg) Wikan of Waukon, IA.

For more information, please call

the Avoca Chapel at (800) 447-2588

Wilbert Roenfeld - Age 81

Wilbert Roenfeld was born on March 27, 1926, to Harry and Sophia (Fisher) Roenfeld near Mineola, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mineola. He attended country school in Mills County, Iowa.

He had a passion for polka music and dancing and would attend dances at Sokol Hall in Omaha, Nebraska. It was there that he met his future bride. On September 27, 1950, he was united in marriage to Angela Heitman at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Four children were born to this union: Randall, Joyce, Julie, and Rodney. Wilbert and Angela continued dancing together throughout their marriage.

Farming was his life. He farmed until his retirement in 1982, when he and Angela moved to Harlan. He then worked for various farmers, including his friend Charlie Leuck, whom he worked for for six years. He was always very active in the agricultural community and listened to the grain and cattle markets every day. Wilbert kept busy by mowing the Harlan Cemetery, which he did for several years. He was also very active in his church assisting with janitorial duties when needed, serving as usher, and filling in whenever he could.

Wilbert would begin each morning with a walk around his neighborhood and would always have time to chat with anyone he met. In addition, he always had time for his three granddaughters and two great-granddaughters and was very proud of everything they did.

Wilbert died on Sunday, June 10, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-one years, two months, and fourteen days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Joyce, and his brother Marvin.

Wilbert is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Angela, of Harlan, Iowa; his children: Randall Roenfeld and his wife Joyce of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Julie and her husband Robert Long of Lake Ozark, Missouri, and Rodney Roenfeld of Harlan; three granddaughters; two great-granddaughters; his brothers: Harry Roenfeld and his wife Helen of Elk Horn, Iowa, and Robert Roenfeld and his wife Karen of Bella Vista, Arkansas, his sister Evelyn and her husband Rueben Jensen of Alexandria, Minnesota; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa, with Pastor Ron Rasmussen officiating the 10:30 AM ceremony. Honorary casket bearers were Darwin Warner, Donald Hansen, and Merle Hansen. Serving as casket bearers were Chad Rosenboom, Weldon Heitman, Jr., John Roenfeld, Jeff Hansen, Lou Masters, and Kirk Dekker. Interment was held at the Jacksonville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Iowa.

Phyllis V. Rold - Age 69

Phyllis Verlee Rold, the daughter of Harry C. and Vernie L. Petersen Nielsen, was born on November 2, 1935, south of Hamlin, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan and later was baptized at the Altamont Baptist Church in Harlan. Phyllis attended country school until the seventh grade when she attended Harlan Community Schools and was a member of the graduating class of 1953.

On June 6, 1954, Phyllis was united in marriage to Robert Dale Rold. Five children were born to this union: Mark, Monte, Brett, Bruce and Julie. Phyllis was employed at the Shelby County Treasurer’s Office in Harlan, until the birth of her children when she was a stay at home mother. In 1981, she began working for Communications Data Services for the next eighteen years, after which she retired due to health reasons. Shortly after marriage, they moved to the family farm southeast of Harlan, Iowa, where she resided until her death. She enjoyed gardening and flowers and everything about the farm life. Her best times were spent watching her children and grandchildren do the things they were involved with. Phyllis enjoyed traveling, fishing, and being involved with the animals on the farm. She loved to take pictures and enjoyed going through years of photo albums. She was a strong believer in family and keeping them together.

Phyllis died on Sunday, October 30, 2005, at the Avoca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Avoca, Iowa, having attained the age of sixty-nine years, eleven months and twenty-eight days. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sons, Monte and Bruce.

Survivors include her husband, Bob of Harlan, Iowa; her children: Mark Rold and his wife, Becky of Elk Horn, Iowa; Brett Rold and his wife, Rose of Brayton, Iowa; Julie Rold of Harlan, Iowa; ten grandchildren: Matt Rold and his wife, Tammy of Columbia, Missouri; Lukas Rold and his wife, Lisa of Nevada, Iowa; Nicholas Rold and his fiancé Lana Berkey of Des Moines, Iowa; Heather and her husband, Mark Smith of Altoona, Iowa; Brandon Rold of Maryville, Missouri; Steven Rold of Lawrence, Kansas; Jeremy Lahr of Holdredge, Nebraska; Josh Lahr of Coon Rapids, Iowa; Sierra Rold of Brayton, Iowa; Dakota Rold of Brayton, Iowa; three great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, November 3, 2005, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Diana Holland officiating. Interment was in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Ken Peters, Marlow Clemons, Carl Peters, Donald A. Ryan, Darrell Krohn, Ed Mills, and Bob Barton serving as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were Matt Rold, Lukas Rold, Nick Rold, Steve Rold, Brandon Rold, Dakota Rold, Jeremy Lahr, Mark Smith, and Josh Lahr.

Erma B. Rosenbeck - Age 98

Erma Bnetta Rosenbeck was born on May 19, 1909, to Warner and Marie (Paulsen) Doyle on the family farm east of Persia, Iowa. In 1930, the family moved from the farm into town.

After her schooling, Erma worked for a number of years as a switchboard operator at the Mutual Telephone office in Persia.

On March 10, 1938, she was united in marriage to Elmer Rosenbeck. The couple both enjoyed working in their garden and canning pickles and tomatoes. Erma also enjoyed quilting and crocheting as well as cooking and baking. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Persia and served as church treasurer for a time.

The couple celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary together with their family and friends in 1988.

After her husband’s death in 1996, Erma continued living alone in her house in Persia until she entered Elm Crest Retirement Home in Harlan, Iowa, on May 25, 2007, at the age of ninety-seven.

It was there that she died on Sunday, February 10, 2008, having attained the age of ninety-eight years, eight months, and twenty-two days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Elmer, her sister and brother-in-law Elva and Monroe Zalk, and one nephew Clifford Zalk.

Erma is survived by her nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, February 13, 2008, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Persia, Iowa, with Pastor Duane Anunson officiating the 1:30 PM service. Honorary casket bearers were V. L. "Butch" Miller, Gary Wilke, Earl Eckmann, Stanley Martens, and Robert Kuster. Serving as casket bearers were Calvin Eckmann, Larry Shriver, Randy Zacharias, Steve Stamp, Gale Miller, and John Hess. Interment was held in the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa.

Jay E. Rosenberg - Age 40

Jay Edward Rosenberg was born on July 9, 1967, to Paul and Anna Marie (Zavorka) Rosenberg in Omaha, Nebraska. He graduated from South High School in Omaha with the Class of 1984.

He worked at Casio’s before working for his father. Jay always worked hard and had three jobs when he went to school. In 1990, he moved to Florida to run a Saturn automobile dealership. His job was important to him and he was good at it; never calling in or playing hookie.

On April 13, 1996, Jay was united in marriage to Tina Marie English at Coconut Creek in Boca Raton, Florida. Two sons were born to this union: Jaydan and Jay Edward, Jr. In 2003, the family moved from Florida to settle in Persia, Iowa.

Jay loved eagles, hot rod cars, and the Big Red, but his family was what he treasured the most. Spending time with his wife and sons were more important to him than realizing his dream of rebuilding a 1969 Cutlass "S" series car. One of Jay’s most prized possessions was a medal his great-great-grandmother had from Czechoslovakia.

Jay was admitted to Community Memorial Hospital in Missouri Valley, Iowa, and it was there that he lost his battle with multiple sclerosis on Friday, March 28, 2008, having attained the age of forty years, eight months, and nineteen days. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Elizabeth Zavorka, David Rosenberg, and Louise Buhl.

Jay is survived by his wife of twelve years, Tina Rosenberg, his sons Jaydan and Jay Edward, Jr., all of Persia, Iowa; his mother Anna Marie and her husband Jerry Pursell of Council Bluffs, Iowa; his father Paul Rosenberg and his wife Sandy of Omaha, Nebraska; his sister Cathy Pursell of Council Bluffs, and his brother Spencer Rosenberg of Omaha.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, with Rev. John Dorton celebrating the 11:00 AM service at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. The St. Mary’s Choir was accompanied by Denise Reinig.

Irene E. Rosman - Age 72

Irene E. Rosman, the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Goetzinger Kloewer, was born on May 8, 1933, in Defiance, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Irene attended St. Paul’s Catholic School where she graduated and later attended Mercy School of Nursing, graduating in 1953. Upon graduation, she was employed at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

On October 2, 1954, Irene was united in marriage to Louis Rosman at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. Eight children were born to this union: Jerry, Mary, Jean, Kathy, Rose, Margaret, James and Mamie. After their marriage, Irene stayed home to raise their children while Louis farmed. In 1969, Irene was employed at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa. She worked there until 1974, when she began working at Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, until her health began to fail.

Irene volunteered for many years with the Red Cross helping with the Bloodmobile. She enjoyed crocheting, making afghans for the grandchildren, and baking, especially for the grandchildren. She was a very special care giver for her family and raised her children to be warm and compassionate. Irene loved being a nurse and she would always extend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Irene died on Monday, October 3, 2005, at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of seventy-two years, four months and twenty-six days. In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by a daughter, Mamie and her brothers, Joseph, Kenneth, Larry and Virgil "Bud."

Survivors include her husband, Louis of Harlan, Iowa; her children: Jerry Rosman and his wife, Janice of Harlan, Iowa; Dr. Mary Pat Rosman and her husband, David of Sumner, Iowa; Jean Marie and her husband, Kent Mortensen of Arlington, Nebraska; Kathy Van Elsen and her fiancé, Kirk of Des Moines, Iowa; Rose and her husband, Steve Johnson of Omaha, Nebraska; Margaret Rosman of Omaha, Nebraska; James Rosman and his wife, Laura of Laurinburg, North Carolina; fifteen grandchildren; brothers and sister: Harry Kloewer and his wife, Lois of Moville, Iowa; Leonard Kloewer and his wife, Donna of Underwood, Iowa; Eilene and her husband, Don Thorell of Omaha, Nebraska; other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, October 7, 2005, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Robert Hoefler as the celebrant. Interment was in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Lincoln Township, Harlan, Iowa, with Paul Buman, Wayne Mortensen, Jeff Buman, Rod Devine, Carl Rosman, Steve Kloewer, Mike Flies, and Josh Stuhr serving as casket bearers.

Harold Rueschenberg - Age 80

Harold Francis Rueschenberg, the son of John and Rosa Schneider Rueschenberg, was born on March 4, 1924 in Westphalia, Iowa. In May 1943, he graduated from High School and two months later he enlisted in the United States Navy. Upon completion of Military Service in 1946, he returned to Westphalia where he met his bride, Bernice Kloewer.

Harold and Bernice were united in marriage on May 12, 1950 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia. To this union five children were born. Harold’s employment evolved around transporting livestock to market and milling grain. He enjoyed music, singing in the church choir and watching softball, soccer and baseball. Harold was an active member in the Westphalia Volunteer Fire Department for thirty-five years. He also was a member of the American Legion and performed in the Honor Guard.

Harold died on Tuesday, June 1, 2004 at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty years, two months and twenty-eight days.

Harold is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Bernice of Earling, Iowa; his children: Robert of Westphalia, Iowa; Debra Rueschenberg of San Antonio, Texas, Lois and her husband, Dave Mahlberg of Denison, Iowa; Joyce and her husband, Billy Misner of Elk Horn, Iowa; and John Rueschenberg of Bluemont, Virginia; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a brother, Werner Rueschenberg and his wife Martha of Sonora, California, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, June 4, 2004 at 10:30 AM at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, Iowa with Rev. Michael G. Peters as the Celebrant. Serving as honorary casket bearers were Amanda Mahlberg, Jill Ann Hill, Kevin Mahlberg, Sheldon Hill, Jacob Henriksen, Karley Henriksen, Justin Henriksen and Kaitlynn Rose Henriksen. Interment was held in the St. Boniface Cemetery in Westphalia, Iowa.

Margaret L. Russell - Age 100

Margaret Lucille Russell was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 14, 1906. She was the daughter of Frank and Catherine (Coan) Russell and was one of two children in the family. She attended school in Avoca, Iowa and graduated with the class of 1924.

Margaret taught in rural schools in Shelby and Pottawattamie County for 29 years and then taught in the Avoca Public School system for 14 years, retiring in 1971. She received all college credits from either Cedar Falls or Drake University.

Margaret was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of Avoca, where she taught catechism for many years. She felt very honored when she was chosen to be one of the readers at the Papal Mass in Des Moines, Iowa on October 4, 1979. Margaret was also a member of the Business Women's Club and a member of other card clubs. She always enjoyed being with friends.

Margaret died on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa. She had attained the grand age of one hundred years, eleven months and seventeen days. Besides her parents, Margaret is preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy.

Margaret is survived by her cousins, Shirley Pace of Omaha, Nebraska, and Helen and her husband, Bernard Vitt of Independence, Missouri; special friend Barb Butcher of Avoca, Iowa; besides other relatives and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, February 3, 2007 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, Iowa with Rev. Paul Monahan as the Celebrant. Serving as casket bearers were Jim Hansen, Terry Kuhr, Greg Petersen, Rex Eichelberger, Alan Sieh and Rich Price. Serving as Honorary Casket Bearers were Mick Denning and Tony Wingert. Interment was held in the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa

Gary Russmann - Age 65

Gary Lee Russmann, the seventh child born to Albert A. and Lisle Harris Russmann, was born on August 10, 1942 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Gary attended country school Pleasant Ridge #6. Five weeks into his third grade year, Gary contracted polio in the 1950 polio outbreak and spent seven months at Mercy Hospital. When he returned home the family moved to a farm south of Walnut and in 1951 he continued his education at the Walnut Community School; graduating with the Class of 1961. Gary then attended Commercial Extension School of Business in Omaha. Upon graduating from there, he returned home where he began farming with his dad and brother Richard.

Gary was united in marriage to Jane Huse of Omaha. They began farming his uncles farm southwest of Avoca and lived in the house where he had been raised. Their daughter Ann was born on February 24, 1976. He continued to farm until his health no longer allowed. Pain took over his life, but Gary continued to mow and maintain his vehicles at home. Gary then spent much time on his phone, keeping in touch with family and friends electronically when he could no longer physically get around to see them.

Gary died at his home on Sunday, January 13, 2008 having attained the age of sixty-five years, five months and three days. He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Jane; his daughter Ann and her husband Jamie Eyberg of Coon Rapids; two grandchildren: Kennedy and Brendan; his brothers and sisters: Marjorie Kobs of Walnut; Carol and her husband Clayton Young of Hancock; Shirley Thies of Avoca; Richard Russmann of Avoca; Norma Herrell of Orange, California and Bonnie Willett of Avoca; sisters-in-law: Barbara Kennedy, Mary Clare Mendick and Lois Huse, all of Omaha, Nebraska; brothers-in-law: Rev. Robert Huse, O.A.R. of Oxnard, California; Rev. Charles Huse of West Orange, New Jersey; Martin Huse and his wife Susan and Leo Huse and his wife Kathy, all of Omaha; many special nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Services were held on Thursday, January 17, 2008 at 10:30 AM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Homes, Avoca, Iowa with Sister Rosie Restelli as the clergy with Wayne Paulsen saying the eulogy. Honorary bearers were Larry Kennett, Matt Kobs, Doug Kennedy, Jamie Eyberg, Jon Thies and Jan Randall. Serving as casket bearers were Roger Hobus, Tom Russmann, Don Kennedy, David Thies, Dean Willett and Phil Hobus. Interment was held in the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa.