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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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Walter B. Staiert, Sr. - Age 87

     Walter Bernard Staiert, Sr., son of John and Anna (Niehaus) Staiert, was born on January 9, 1922, on a farm southwest of Carroll, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Francis Catholic Church in Maple River, Iowa and attended St. Francis Catholic Schools, Maple River Country School, and Carroll Public School. He grew to adulthood on the family farm outside of Carroll.

     In 1941, Walt met Ella Mae Loeffelholz at a dance. They were married on October 10, 1945, in Mount Carmel, Iowa. Ten children were born to this union: Ronald, Robert, Duane, Walt, Joseph, Ralph, Marie, Jim, Jeanne, and Joni. After their wedding, Walt and Ella Mae rented a farm southwest of Carroll where they remained until 1967 when they bought a farm southwest of Elk Horn, Iowa, and had a dairy where they raised cattle.

     Walt loved to farm, and had a great love for the land. He was always using the newest technology for conservation. In 1981, Walt retired from the dairy but continued to farm with his son, Walt Jr. When Walt wasn’t busy on the farm, he was spending time with his family. He also loved to play cards, tell stories and jokes and lovingly tease his kids and grandkids. In January 2007, Walt and Ella Mae moved into Harlan.

     Walt was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan where he served on the Pastoral Council and the Parish Council. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council No. 3900 of Harlan, Iowa.

     Walt died on Monday, December 14, 2009, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months, and five days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Joseph; his daughter, Joni; his siblings: Loretta Reiff, Agnes Gehling, Marita Heires, Anita Bellinghausen, Edwin Staiert, and Paul Staiert.

     He is survived by his wife of sixty-four years, Ella Mae, of Harlan, Iowa; their children: Ronald Staiert and his wife Janice of Walnut, Iowa; Robert Staiert and his wife Linda of Topeka, Kansas; Duane Staiert and his wife Celine of Omaha, Nebraska; Walt Staiert and his wife Laurie of Elk Horn, Iowa; Ralph Staiert and his wife Wendy of Ankeny, Iowa; Marie and her husband Mike Wiederin of Bedford, Iowa; Jim Staiert and his wife Ana of Springfield, Virginia; and Jeanne and her husband Mark Eastman of Omaha, Nebraska; nineteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; his siblings: Rosina Wiederin; Hilde Bruck both of Carroll, Iowa; Elmer Staiert and his wife Nets of Sac City, Iowa; Henry Staiert of Fonda, Iowa; Leo Staiert and his wife Alice; Ethel and her husband Raymond Reiff all of Carroll, Iowa; his sisters-in-law Alice Staiert of Carroll and Harriett Staiert of Littleton, Colorado; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, December 19, 2009, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Rev. Bob Hoefler celebrating the 11:00 AM service. Interment was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa, with Julie Elings, Susan Petersen, Amy Rieger, Krista Allen, Sheila Gudenrath, Angie Perrier, Sarah Staiert, Geena Staiert, Ashley Wiederin, and Rachel Eastman acting as honorary casket bearers.. Serving as casket bearers were: Mike Staiert, Richard Staiert, Mark Staiert, Matt Staiert, Connor Eastman, Scott Staiert, Mick Wiederin, Cody Wiederin, and John Staiert.

Alden "Bud" Stamp - Age 86

     Alden Herman Stamp, son of Herman and Anna Dorthea (Martens) Stamp, was born on June 25, 1923, in Persia, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Persia and attended Burner Hill Country School southwest of Persia.

     On June 3, 1925, Alden’s family farm was hit by a tornado. It took all the buildings except the house.

     On January 15, 1951, Alden was united in marriage to Ella Horstmeyer at St. John’s Evangelical Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Two sons were born to this union: Jerry and Steve. After their wedding, Alden and Ella made their home southwest of Persia where Alden rented 160 acres of farm ground.

     Alden was a charter member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Persia.

     In 1982, Alden and Ella retired from farming and moved into Persia. In 2004, they moved into Harlan.

     Alden died on Wednesday, December 9, 2009, at Elm Crest Retirement Community in Harlan, having attained the age of eighty-six years, five months, and fourteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Wesley.

     He is survived by his wife, Ella, of Harlan, Iowa; their sons Jerry Stamp and his wife Diane of Avoca, Iowa and Steve Stamp of Persia, Iowa; two grandchildren: Jerod Stamp and his wife Margaret and Jordan Stamp; one great-granddaughter, Joslyn; other family members and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Saturday, December 12, 2009, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Persia, Iowa, with Rev. Duane Anunson officiating the 2:00 PM service. Interment was held at Valley View Cemetery in Persia with Bob Stuhr, Quentin Hoffman, and Bob Kuster acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Jerod Stamp, Jordan Stamp, Max Handbury, Brett Holtz, Dan Garrison, and Bruce Holtz.

Eugene "Gene" Staub - Age 84
     Joseph Eugene Staub, the son of Emil and Addie Mae Gilliam Staub, was born on September 1, 1922 on a farm near Avoca, Iowa. He attended grade school at the Newtown School and attended Avoca High School.
    
Gene was united in marriage to Eleanor Klindt on August 15, 1943 in Omaha, Nebraska, while he was on leave from military duty and to this union four daughters were born: Lois, Linda, Sherri and Diane. He started out in the Air Corps, but after D-Day Gene was transferred to ground duty with the 773rd Tank Destroyer Battalion, which often spearheaded for the 90th Infantry where he was awarded the bronze star. The whole group was under General George Patton. His military group assisted in the liberation of a concentration camp.
     When Gene was sent overseas Eleanor moved to Avoca and waited for Gene's return. After his honorable discharge from the Army in February 1946 he returned to Avoca where he worked in the dairy business. They farmed in the Avoca and Shelby area until 1955 when they moved to a farm in the Hancock-Oakland area. They lived there until 1981 when they moved to their new home in Avoca. Gene also was employed as a hail adjuster. Eleanor died in December 1989. Gene then married Flora McHugh on September 1,1996.
    Gene was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church and a member and was past Commander of VFW Post No. 4279.
     Gene was a firm believer in farm conservation. In 1960, he received the Iowa award for conservation in the Landlord Tenant Division. He also could have been a weed commissioner as well. If he saw a Thistle, he would stop and cut it down. He loved nature and watched and fed the birds . Other interests included wood crafts, especially bird houses.
     Gene died on June 22, 2007 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa having attained the age of eighty-four years, nine months and twenty-one days. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Eleanor, and two brothers, Herman and Glenn. Survivors include his wife, Flora of Avoca, Iowa; his daughters: Lois and her husband Michael Chaffee of Wadsworth, Ohio; Linda and her husband Richard Seehase of Ozark, Missouri; Sherri and her husband Brian Ballinger of Hollandale, Mississippi and Diane and her husband Richard Ellison of Acworth, Georgia; his step children: Sandra McHugh of Omaha, Nebraska; Lyle McHugh and his wife Janet of Tarkio, Missouri; Michael McHugh and his wife Carol of Burlington Junction, Missouri; Deloid McHugh of Denison, Iowa; Marilyn and her husband Scott Hintz of Carlisle, Iowa; Karen and her husband Paul Reidell of Breda, Iowa; seven grandchildren; fourteen step grandchildren; five great grandchildren; eight step great grandchildren; one sister, Aletha and her husband Robert Buck of Shelby, Iowa; sister-in-law Phyllis Staub of Fountain, Minnesota; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 10:30 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Dennis Reich as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were David Buck, Brian Ballinger, Richard Seehase, Richard Ellison, Bob Buck and Michael Chaffee. Military rites were done by the Fred Funston Post No. 227 with interment in the Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Iowa.

Herbert A. "Herb" Stearns - Age 86

     Herbert "Herb" A. Stearns, son of Herbert and Bertha (Martin) Stearns was born on May 19, 1922 in Hendley, Nebraska. After his graduation, Herb served in the United States Army during World War II.

     On December 25, 1947, Herbert was united in marriage to Joyce Nadine Enfield in Hendley, Nebraska. To this union three daughters were born: Kay, Linda, and Susan. After their marriage, their first home was in Walnut, Iowa until moving to a farm near Avoca, Iowa. In 1962, Herb and Joyce bought a dairy farm in Hallsville, Missouri. They resided there for three years before moving back to Avoca where they owned and operated Stearns Drive-In and the Y-Motel on the North edge of Avoca. He worked for the Iowa Department of Transportation for thirty years. After their retirement, they enjoyed many winters in Mathies, Texas, where they enjoyed the warm weather and fishing.

     Herb loved the outdoors almost as much as he loved his daughters and grandkids. He wouldn’t hesitate to go fishing or camping and if he stayed home, he’d be planting lots of tomatoes or gardening. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, dancing, and playing pitch.

     Herb died on Friday, August 22, 2008, having attained the age of eighty-six years, three months, and three days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Joyce in 2006.

     Herb is survived by his daughters: Kay and her husband Duane Winston of Atlantic, Iowa; Linda and her husband Dr. Steve Sornsen of Ames, Iowa and Susan and her husband Larry Madsen of Omaha, Nebraska; his grandchildren; Nathan Winston, Derek Winston and his wife Melanie, Katie and her husband Grant Miller, Brooke and her husband Eric Johnson, Ashley Sornsen, Mallory Sornsen, Aaron Deardorff, Alec Madsen, Michelle Kessler and Eric Madsen; two great-grandchildren; his sisters: Clela Tripe of Holdrege, Nebraska, and Arlene Kroman of Elk Horn, Iowa; sisters-in-law Lou Campbell of Denver, Colorado and Ermalea Mason of Salina, Kansas; other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Monday, August 25, 2008 at 1:00 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Dennis Reich as the clergy and Wayne Paulsen as the eulogist. Serving as casket bearers were Eric Johnson, Nathan Winston, Alec Madsen, Derek Winston, Aaron Deardorff, Erik Madsen and Grant Miller. Interment was held in the Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa with Military Rites by the Avoca American Legion Fred Funston Post No. 227.

David E. Stewart - Age 75

     David Earl Stewart, son of Earl and Vera Ruth (Boysen) Stewart, was born on December 27, 1933, on the family farm in rural Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized First Baptist Church in Harlan and attended school at Monroe Township Number 1 through eighth grade before helping his dad on the farm.

     In 1956, David enlisted in the United States Navy and served for two years. In 1957, he was honorably discharged and returned home to help his father on the farm. On December 7, 1957, David was united in marriage to Vera Marie McCord. Six children were born to this union: Lois, Paul, triplets: James, John, and Janice, and Kathe. After their wedding, David and Vera made their home on the Stewart Family Farm. They are the third generation to live on this land. He started farming with horses, milked cows, was the first in the area to have big round bales on their land, and told his boys if they wanted to start farming, he’d give them a chance. He kept at it until starting his auger business. His business helped most of his kids and grandkids pay for college.

     David would take the kids outside after supper and play ball. He threw right handed, hit left handed, and was one heck of a hitter. If a window got broke, he just figured they hit the ball really hard! He loved coaching Little League or softball and coached most of his kids at some sport. His love of sports continued when it was time to cheer on the grandkids!

     When David wasn’t busy working, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He really enjoyed going to sports shows and manning his son Jim’s booth. He loved to talk to people and hand out the catalogues. He was always cutting and splitting wood in the grove and burning the brush. If you wanted to find him, just look for the smoke. David was also a very active charter member of the First Baptist Church in Harlan and loved being a greeter. He loved the Lord and serving the church in any way.

     David never really retired. He and his grandson Zach were putting together an auger when David died on Friday, March 13, 2009, less than fifty feet from where he was born. He had attained the age of seventy-five years, two months, and fourteen days. He is preceded in death by his parents and his infant grandson Ethan Stewart.

     He is survived by his wife Vera Stewart of Harlan, Iowa; their children: Lois and her husband Dave Martin, Paul Stewart and his wife Diane all of Harlan, James Stewart of Minocqua, Wisconsin, John Stewart of Harlan, Janice and her husband Bryan Greve of Elk Horn, Iowa, and Kathe and her husband Dennis Slavin of Grimes, Iowa; twelve grandchildren: Erin, Nicole, and Cyndi Greve, Mat, Wendy, and Jamie Martin, Mike and Alex Slavin, and Melissa, Zach, and Danielle Stewart; his sister Ruth Stewart of Kansas City, Missouri; nieces; nephews; other family members and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 16, 2009, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Gundar Lamberts officiated the 1:00 PM service. Burial was held at the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa with Bryan Greve, Eugene "Jack" and Jeanette Clayton, Dave Martin, Dale Skinner, Marlow and Jeanette Clemons, Shag Skinner, Diane Stewart, Harold and Donna Lanman, Dennis Slavin, LaVonne Anderson, Don and Clarice Andersen, Lloyd Messenger, Kelly Doonan, Jeff Messenger, Ed and Gloria Mills, and Jim and Monna Juhl acting as honorary casket bearers. Serving as casket bearers were: Mat Clark, Wendy Martin, Jamie Martin, Erin Greve, Nikki Greve, Cyndi Greve, Melissa Stewart, Zach Stewart, Danielle Stewart, Mike Slavin, and Alex Slavin.

Alva M. Stidham - Age 90

     Alva May (Welton) Stidham was born on December 23, 1916 in Bellevue, Nebraska. She was the daughter of George and Sophie (Dreger) Welton and was one of eight children in the family. She attended grade school and high school in Bellevue, Nebraska.

     Alva was united in marriage to Edgar Stidham on November 13, 1933 at Council Bluffs, Iowa. They were the parents of five children. They farmed in the Carson and Treynor, Iowa areas until 1959, when they moved to Shelby, Iowa where Edgar was employed by the Highway Commission. Edgar died on May 6, 1994. Alva was a very loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was a devoted friend to all. She was a member of the Shelby Presbyterian Church, active in the ladies circle of the church, Garden Club, Red Hat Society, Senior Citizens Friendship Club, American Legion Auxiliary, Rebekas and the Shelby Farmerettes.

     Alva moved to Georgia in July 2007 to be near her daughter, LaNaya. She died at the Peachtree Christian Hospice in Duluth, Georgia on Friday, November 2, 2007. She had attained the age of ninety years, ten months and ten days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Edgar, an infant son Arthur, a daughter Marlene Kiesel, one sister Ilene Taylor; five brothers: Frank, Warren, Wayne, Virgil and John, and an infant grandson.

     Alva is survived by her son, George Stidham and his wife, Sally, of Mountain Home, Arkansas; two daughters: Wanda Saxton and her husband, Grover, of Yazoo City, Mississippi and LaNaya Kresl and her husband, Jim, of Cumming, Georgia; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-five great grandchildren; one sister, Martha Briggs of Omaha, Nebraska; a son-in-law, Dennis Kiesel of Hollister, Missouri; other relatives and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Thursday, November 8, 2007 at 10:30 A.M. at the First Presbyterian Church in Shelby, Iowa with Pastor Orris Drake officiating. Serving as casket bearers were here grandsons: Todd and Jamie Kresl, Jay and Jon Stidham and Craig and Jeff Kiesel. Burial was at the Shelby Cemetery.

Doris E. Stinn - Age 81

     Doris Ellen Stinn, daughter of Frank and Clementine (Meier) Sick, was born on a farm northwest of Avoca in Fairview Township in Shelby County on August 11, 1926. She was baptized on December 27, 1931 at the Lutheran Church in Avoca and was confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church at Persia. She later had her membership transferred to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan.

     Doris attended Shelby County Country School, Shelby Public School and graduated from Harlan High School in 1944.

     She took college teaching courses her junior and senior year in high school and practiced teaching in the Harlan elementary grades. She took the State Teachers Test and received a Normal Training Teachers Certificate and was certified to teach grades kindergarten through eighth grade.

     On November 4, 1953, Doris was united in marriage to Bernard Stinn at the Methodist Chapel in Denison, Iowa. To this union two children were born: Elaine and Dale.

     Doris taught forty-six years in three systems: Shelby County Country School grades kindergarten through eighth grade; St. Boniface School at Westphalia grades first, third, and fourth; and Shelby Tennant School at Shelby grades third, fourth, fifth, and sixth. She was a state teacher’s delegate from Harlan for two years to the Des Moines Assembly and also did tutoring in her home.

     Doris received more college credits attending night school and summer school at Drake University; University of Nebraska at Omaha; Buena Vista College; and Iowa State University.

     She retired from teaching in May 1991. It was difficult being away from children so Doris began working in the baby and toddlers department at Time for Tots Care Center in Harlan where she retired for the second time.

     Doris enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, putting puzzles together, embroidery work, quilting and camping. She took pride in her flower garden and hanging baskets.

     Doris died on Friday, April 18, 2008, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan having attained the age of eighty-one years, eight months, and seven days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bernard, her daughter Elaine, her brother Lloyd Sick and two sisters: Emma Schneckloth and Arlene Stinn.

     She is survived by her son Dale Stinn and his wife Edna of Seneca, Missouri; her granddaughter April Stinn; her great-granddaughter Jaden Stinn; step-grandchildren Amber, Bart, and Beth; her sisters Frances Pauley and Ruth and her husband Roy Fries all of Harlan; nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

     Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 23, 2008, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Heather Ploen and Pastor Steven Chellew officiated the 11:00 AM service with burial at the Harlan Cemetery. Serving as casket bearers were: Lee Stinn, Frank Sick, Dan Fries, Mike Stinn, Paul Stinn, and Bill Stinn.

Rubie Stofferson - Age 97

Who Died on Monday,

January 7,2008

 

 

Memorial Services will be held at a later date

 

 

She is survived by her husband Reno of Harlan; her children: Marcia and her husband Darrell Burger of Cassville, Missouri and Robert and his wife Tori of Kearney, Nebraska; one son-in-law Dan Kleinpaste and his wife Pat of Harlan; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Helen Mense of St. Peters, Missouri; one brother Ralph Jones of Audubon, Iowa.

George H. Stolz, Jr. - Age 81

    George Henry Stolz Jr. was born on September 15, 1925, to Vera (Dougal) and George H. Stolz, Sr. on a farm south of Defiance, Iowa. He was baptized, made his first communion, and was confirmed at St. Peters Catholic Church in Defiance.

    In 1938, he moved with his parents to a farm northwest of Earling in Grove Township, where he met his wife to be in country school. He graduated from the eighth grade and then helped his father farm 440 acres.

    George was married to Marie M. Blum on April 12, 1948, in St. Peters Catholic Church in Defiance. To this union seven children were born: Twyla, Randy, Stan, Deb, Pam, Russ, and Cheri. The couple bought a farm and made their home in Grove Township. George retired in 1986 and moved to Earling. He was always willing to take people down to Omaha to their doctor appointments.

    George had sold Plumb Seed Corn for over ten years, was a township trustee and served on the city council in Earling for seven years. George loved big band music and taught himself to play the string bass. He played in the Earl Russell Orchestra for thirty-six years and with other bands for another four years.

    George died at the Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling on August 9, 2007, having attained the age of eighty-one years, ten months, and twenty-five days. He was preceded in death by his wife Marie, his parents, his brothers: Romaldus, Roman, Allen, and Melvin Stolz; and his sisters: Delores Tremel and Veronica Stolz.

     He is survived by his daughters: Twyla and her husband Bob McConnell of Defiance, Iowa, Deb and her husband Ron Frederick of Earling, Iowa, Pam and her husband Randy Schwery of Earling, and Cheri and her husband Brett Crawley of Defiance; his sons: Randy Stolz of Sioux City, Iowa, Stan Stolz and Russ Stolz, both of Defiance; fifteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one step-great-grandchild; his brothers: Merrill Stolz of Harlan, Iowa, and Louis Stolz of Dunlap, Iowa; his sisters: Lois Koesters of Earling and Wilma Mohr of Denison, Iowa; brother-in-law John Tremel, sisters-in-law: Alice Stolz of Harlan and Edith Stolz of San Diego, California; nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, August 13, 2007. Rev. Tom Coenen was the celebrant of the 11:00 AM service held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. Casket bearers were Will McConnell, Wes Cunningham, Randy Stolz, Jr., Mike Frederick, Jay Frederick, Gary Stolz, and Ben Stolz. Interment was held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.

Marie C. Stolz - Age 59

     Marie Cecelia Stolz, daughter of Martin and Helen (Kaufman) Reinig, was born on October 10, 1948, in Des Moines, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School with the Class of 1966.

     Marie was united in marriage to Dewayne Stolz on October 15, 1966 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth. They were the parents of Julie Ann, Dennis, and Michelle.

     She worked at Burger King in Harlan for two and a half years during the early nineties. She was also employed for a short time at Communications Data Services in Harlan and in home health care for a few years.

     Marie loved to play softball and played for the Portsmouth town team for several years. She started a Boy Scout troop with Barb Wingert when their boys were young and was a Girl Scout Leader. Marie was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas serving as the secretary for two terms. She was also a member of St. Mary’s choir and the St. Mary’s Liturgy Committee. Marie provided meals for vacation bible school and taught religious education, pre-marriage workshops, and CYO. She was a collector of angels and of pigs.

     Marie died on Monday, June 30, 2008, having attained the age of fifty-nine years, eight months, and twenty days. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Julie Ann, and her brother Ron.

     She is survived by her husband of forty-two years Dewayne Stolz of Portsmouth, Iowa; her son Dennis Stolz of Omaha, Nebraska; and her daughter Michelle of Portsmouth; other family members and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, July 3, 2008, with Rev. John Dorton celebrating the 10:30 AM service at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth, Iowa. Honorary casket bearers were Frank Evans, Dick Mulligan, Duane Hursey, John Buman, Ralph Wingert, Ralph Kramer, and Cletus Gubbels. Serving as casket bearers were Russ Morefield, Merile Stolz, Jr. Joseph Stolz, Gene Stolz, Wes Walker, and Gary Stolz. Interment was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa.

Melvin Stolz - Age 92

     Melvin Joseph Stolz was born on May 28, 1914, to Vera (Dougal) and George Stolz, Sr. Just west of Panama, Iowa, in Harrison County. He was baptized at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Panama, Iowa, and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. He attended school at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School in Panama and continued his schooling in Defiance.

    He worked as a hired hand at various farms until he saved enough money to buy his first farm outside of Boone, Iowa. In May of 1940, he was united in marriage to Marcella Scheuring at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance. Melvin served on the Co-Op Elevator Board and Farm Bureau Board for several years while in Boone. He was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus, both third and fourth degree and served as the recording secretary for twenty years.

     Melvin was in the first class to become a Eucharistic Minister in 1972. He served in that capacity at the church, nursing homes, and at private homes.

      Melvin farmed and raised hogs his entire life and was once awarded Swine Producer of the Year. He retired in 1976. He and Marcella moved to Harlan, Iowa, in 1978. Marcella died one year later.

      On October 9, 1982, Melvin and Alice Graeve were married in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. They made their home in Harlan and became members of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Melvin loved to drive so every winter they would travel to West Virginia, Florida, Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Kansas, visiting Alice’s children along the way. He loved to watch baseball and wrestling on television.

      Melvin was a very organized, meticulous, and proud man. He was very devoted to his wife and to his church. He was admitted to Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, on May 16, 2007, and it was there that he died on Sunday, May 20, 2007, having attained the age of ninety-two years, eleven months, and twenty-two days. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vera and George Stolz, his first wife Marcella (Scheuring) Stolz, Alice’s son Mark Graeve, his brothers Romaldus "Mal" Stolz, Allen Stolz, and Roman "Pat" Stolz, and his sisters Veronica Stolz and Delores Tremel.

       He is survived by his wife Alice (Finken) Stolz of Harlan, Iowa; Alice’s children: Phil Graeve and his wife Harriett of Defiance, Iowa, Mary and her husband Frank Kilibarda of Courtland, Minnesota, Ed Graeve and his wife Mary Kay of Denison, Iowa, Ken Graeve and his wife Dixie of Brookfield, Wisconsin, Bob Graeve and his wife Sue of Omaha, Nebraska, Neil Graeve and his wife Jolene of Tucson, Arizona, Ann Graeve of Harlan, Pat and her husband Joe Michels of Panama, Iowa, Kathy and her husband Denny Foster of Land O Lakes, Florida, Teresa and her husband Tom Wageman of Westphalia, Iowa, Rose and her husband Dave Schomers of Westphalia, and Jack Graeve of Des Moines, Iowa; Alice’s thirty-nine grandchildren and thirty-eight greatgrandchildren; his brothers: Merrill Stolz of Harlan, Louis Stolz of Dunlap, Iowa, and George Stolz, Jr. of Earling, his sisters: Lois Koesters of Earling and Wilma Mohr of Denison, brother-in-law John Tremel of Earling, and sister-in-law Edythe Stolz of California, nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends.

     A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, May 24, 2007, with Rev. Bob Hoefler officiating the 11:00 AM service at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. Casket bearers were Mark Kilibarda, Chad Wageman, Vince Graeve, Kevin Graeve, Dan Michels, and Matt Graeve. Interment was held at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance, Iowa.

Ezra "Butch" Study - Age 49

    Ezra "Butch" Glee Study, Jr., the son of the late Ezra Glee Study and Jacqueline Margaret (Schuning) Page, was born March 18, 1958, in Iowa City, Iowa. The family eventually moved to Avoca, Iowa, where Ezra was baptized at Trinity Lutheran Church on March 29, 1964. Ezra attended school in Harlan and later received his GED. After school, Butch entered the United States Army and served his country honorably.

     In his younger years, Ezra relocated to Des Moines, Iowa, to continue his trade of roofing work and currently was employed with Woods Roofing whom he worked with for several years. In 1981, at Storm Lake, Iowa, Butch was united in marriage to Elizabeth Kay Miller and later divorced. At the time of his death, Butch was engaged to Kimberly Sue Schossow of Des Moines.

     During his past times, Butch enjoyed watching wrestling and NASCAR. Butch was also artistic and often liked to draw and detail pictures. Among his personal collections are things such as Jeff Gordon, Harley items, and Jack Daniels Tennessee whiskey. His apartment also displayed house plants to which he admired and attended to. For relaxation, Ezra liked to listen to a variety of country music and occasionally attend concerts when available. Playing cards and fishing were some of his favorite pastimes. Butch had a remote control motorcycle that he enjoyed playing with and would often be seen going through the hallway and laundry room of the apartment complex and would "burn rubber" on the floors. Ezra treasured his family most of all and liked to spend time with them during the holidays, birthdays and any moment he could available to him. If not, he would always call and make the most of it. His nieces and nephews were a very important part of his life and he also adored children and loved spending time with them.

     Butch died on June 13, 2007, at his job site in Des Moines, Iowa, having attained the age of forty-nine years, two months and twenty-six days. In addition to his parents and stepfather, William Page, he is preceded in death by his brother Leslie Study and his stepsister Debra Jean Page. Survivors are his fiancé, Kimberly Sue Schossow of Des Moines, Iowa; his brothers and sisters: Randy Study of Chicago, Illinois, Karen and her husband Richard Berego of Nebraska City, Nebraska, Roxann and her husband Roosevelt Oliver of Harlan and Jason Study and his wife Michelle of Tabor, Iowa; step family Sandy Lou Carlson and friend Leonard Pauley, of Spirit Lake, Iowa, William Page and his wife Kathy of Chula Vista, California, Larry Ray Page Keith Allen Page and his wife Natalie all of Alta, Iowa; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many extended family members and friends.

    A funeral service was held on Tuesday, June 19, 2007, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa. Pastor Steven Chellew officiated the 2:00 PM service. Casket Bearers were Keith Kimmen, Mark Miller, Kirby Bullington, Curt Scheffler, Roy Miller, and Kevin Barnard. Interment was held at Harlan Cemetery.

Carol J. Suhr - Age 68

     Carol J. Suhr, daughter of Archie and Wilma (Lorenzen) Gumbert, was born on October 23, 1939 in Walnut, Iowa. She was baptized at Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut and graduated from Walnut High School in 1957. After high school she moved to Washington DC and was employed by the FBI for two years.

     On July 22, 1961, Carol was united in marriage to James Suhr at Peace United Church of Christ. Two sons were born to this union: Bradley and Rodney.

     After her marriage she worked for nineteen years in Avoca at the Avoca State Bank as a bank teller. She also kept books for her husband’s trucking and livestock business. Carol and James enjoyed traveling to Arizona during the winter, going to polka dances and following their sons and grandchildren to cattle shows.

     Carol died on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at the Heritage House in Atlantic, Iowa having attained the age of sixty-eight years, nine months, and six days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband James, and her sister Janice Paulson.

     She is survived by her sons Bradley Suhr and his wife Tracy of Anita, Iowa and Rodney Suhr of Dunlap, Iowa; four grandchildren: Kristi, Shane, Colton, and Aaron; her brother Terry Gumbert and his wife Mary Ellen of Omaha, Nebraska; other family members and friends.

     Funeral services were held on Saturday August 2, 2008 at the Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa with Rev. Gail Muckey officiating. Burial was in Layton Township Cemetery in Walnut. Those serving as casket bearers for the service were Troy Suhr, Colton Suhr, Scott Suhr, Shane Suhr, Aaron Suhr and Trent Suhr.

Charles Suhr - Age 69

     Charles Raymond Suhr was born on December 1, 1940 to Raymond and Josephine (Blakely) Suhr in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Walnut, Iowa. He attended the Walnut schools and graduated with the Class of 1959.

     On June 24, 1961, Charles was united in marriage to Hazel Sorensen at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Walnut. Three children were born to this union: Tim, Troy, and Shawn.

     After high school, he drove for his father at Suhr Trucking and later, with his brother James, took over the business and named it Suhr Brothers Trucking. Charles sold his half of the trucking business to James when he decided to buy the Continental Grain Elevator in Walnut. That became the Tri-County Elevator. Even during that time he was still driving trucks.

     He sold his elevator and worked as a driver for Greater Omaha Packing House. He retired after an accident left him partially disabled.

     He enjoyed gardening and canning, hunting and fishing, dances, playing cards with the boys, and spending time with his grandkids.

     Charles died on Monday, February 1, 2010 having attained the age of sixty-nine years and two months. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Norma Jean, and brothers James and Raymond, Jr.

     He is survived by his wife of forty-eight years, Hazel Suhr of Walnut, Iowa; sons: Tim Suhr of Walnut and Troy Suhr of Council Bluffs, Iowa; daughter Shawn Ballinger of Walnut; three grandchildren; brothers and sisters: Verla and her husband Howard Christensen of Phoenix, Arizona, Kenneth Suhr and his wife Marie of Walnut, Marilyn and her husband John Singer of Omaha, Nebraska, and Terry Suhr and his wife Cindy of Walnut; other family members and many friends.

     Pastor Gail Muckey officiated the 1:00 PM funeral service at Peace United Church of Christ in Walnut, Iowa, on Thursday, February 4, 2010. Honorary casket bearers were Joe Peterson, Allan Sievers, Laura Ballinger, Jesse Ballinger, Jerry Glenn, Charles "Chub" Walter, and Wyatt Suhr. Serving as casket bearers were Gary Van Horn, Trent Suhr, Larry Shepherd, Kevin Suhr, Scott Suhr, and Rodney Suhr. Interment was at Layton Township Cemetery in Walnut.

Stanley R. Sutton - Age 79

     Stanley Ray Sutton, son of Charles Jasper and Bertha Marie (Johnson) Sutton, was born on November 27, 1930, in Mildred, Kansas. Shortly after his birth, Stanley moved with his family to Harlan, Iowa, where he later attended school.

     After school, Stanley moved to Joplin, Missouri, where he worked as an automotive detailer for Joplin Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge Dealership. In 1996, Stanley retired and moved back to Harlan. In 2007, he became a resident of Little Flower Haven in Earling, Iowa.

     Stanley loved listening to country music, especially Danielle Peck. He was very honored to have been able to attend one of her concerts and get an autographed picture. He also enjoyed playing cards with his friends at Little Flower Haven.

     Stanley died on Sunday, May 2, 2010, at Little Flower Haven in Earling, having attained the age of seventy-nine years, five months, and five days. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Harvey; and his sisters Violette Hansen and Viola Petersen.

     He is survived by his nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

     Graveside Services were held on Friday, May 7, 2010, at the Harlan Cemetery with Rev. Jeff Erlemeier of the Abundant Life Church officiating the 2:00 PM service.

Stanley Wayne Sutton - Age 82

     Stanley Wayne Sutton was born on October 28, 1924 in Avoca, Iowa. He was the son of Floyd and Hattie (Klindt) Sutton and was one of nine children in the family. He was baptized at the First Congregational Church. He attended school in Avoca. After school he worked at a butcher shop.

     Stan entered the U.S. Army and served his country honorably until December 28, 1948. He then returned to live in Avoca with his sister, Bonnie. Stan later moved to Cherokee, Iowa to work at a Dry Cleaning business and while living there he enjoyed bowling on a regular basis. When he returned to Avoca, Stan worked for many years as a night cook at The Villager in Walnut, Iowa. He also worked a short time at the Heritage Café in Avoca. He always enjoyed watching television and visiting with his friends at the Heritage. When he retired he remained at his home.

     Due to his longtime diabetic condition, Stan's vision deteriorated enough that his sister Myrna moved into help with his care. He became a resident of the Avoca Nursing and Rehab in December of 2004.

     Stan died at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca on Sunday, September 9, 2007. He had attained the age of eighty two years, ten months and twelve days. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers: Ronald, Ralph and Paul Sutton and four sisters: Beulah Springer, Ethel Taylor, Ramona Sutton and Bonnie Sutton.

     He is survived by his sister, Myrna Mogensen of Avoca, Iowa; nieces and nephews; other family and many friends.

     Graveside services were held on Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 10:00 AM at the Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa with Pastor Nancy Ross-Hullinger as the clergy. Serving as casket bearers were Roger Kubik, Keith Holtz, Charlie Ronnfeldt and Lowell Young with Randy Mogensen as an Honorary Casket bearer. Interment was held in the Graceland cemetery, Avoca, Iowa.

Edwin "Ed" C. Swank - Age 72

     Edwin Carl Swank, son of Paul and Gladys (Fairchild) Swank, was born on November 6, 1935 in Carroll, Iowa. He was baptized at First Christian Church and graduated from Harlan High School in 1954. After graduation, Ed farmed with his father east of Harlan.

     On October 24, 1954, Ed was united in marriage to Charlotte Ann Petersen at the First Christian Church in Atlantic, Iowa. Four children were born to this union: Tim, Cathy, Brenda, and Shelley. Ed and Charlotte lived in Harlan until 1956 when they moved to a farm west of Harlan. They continued to farm west of Harlan until 1999. Ed began working for the Rural Electric Cooperative (REC) in Harlan reading meters. He continued to do this until his death. Ed was a member of the Parian Masonic Lodge No. 321, A.F. & A.M. of Harlan, Abu-Bekr Temple Shrine A. A. O. N. M. S. of Sioux City, and Lebanon Chapter No. 8, O.E.S. Eastern Star.

     Ed died on Saturday, May 17, 2008, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan having attained the age of seventy-two years, six months, and eleven days. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Charlotte, and their daughter Cathy.

     He is survived by his son Tim Swank and his wife Jean of Harlan; his daughters: Brenda and her husband Chris Jensen of Bremerton, Washington and Shelley and her husband John Schafer of Bellevue, Nebraska; nine grandchildren: Patti and her husband Mike Burroughs of Omaha, Nebraska; David Swank and his wife Becky of Harlan; Shawna and her husband Dominic Garguile of Modesto, California; Cindy Coldiron of Bremerton; Justin Schafer of Bellevue; Rebecca Swank of Harlan; and Christine, Sarah, and Morgan Schafer all of Bellevue. Five great-grandchildren: Sidnie Burroughs of Omaha; Abby Swank of Harlan; Gavin Burroughs of Omaha; Hailee Coldiron of Bremerton; and Cody Swank of Harlan. His special friend Inez Dreager of Atlantic, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

     A funeral service was held on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan with Pastor Al Hazelton officiating the 10:30 AM service. Honorary casket bearers were Kenneth Thomsen, Franklin Rasmussen, Mark Rasmussen, David Christensen, Dennis Woodin, Bob Christensen, Denzil Nelson, Bill Stinn, and Delbert Bruck. Serving as casket bearers were Justin Schafer, Mike Burroughs, Dave Wahling, Mike Burke, Dave Clark, and David Swank with interment held at the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Lincoln Township, Rural Harlan, Iowa.

 

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