Leona Arnold
1902 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on July 1, 1902 in Keokuk, IA, Leona was the daughter of Simeon and Gertrude Smith Bird. On August 26, 1920, Leona was united in marriage to Willard Arnold in Keokuk, IA. She had been a resident of Keokuk for over 50 years. She was a member of the Alexandria Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, MO, Royal Neighbors of America and the Keokuk Garden Club. She was very musically inclined and sang in the church choir and at area funerals. She enjoyed sewing and working in her garden. Leona G. Arnold died Saturday, January 4, 2003 at the Keokuk Nursing Center in Keokuk, IA at the age of 100. Survivors include one daughter, Lucille Hayden of Jackson, MO, three grandchildren, Janet Bentzinger of Ocean Springs, MI, Patty Sue Conklin of Cedar Hills, MO, and Priscilla Hooks and her husband David of Cape Girardeau, MO, three great-grandchildren, Deborah Bentzinger of Hammond, LA Rebecca Marante and her husband David of Ft. Myers, FL, and Daniel Curtis Hooks of Cape Girardeau, MO one nephew and 2 nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband Willard on November 18, 1949, three brothers and two sisters. Funeral services were held at 11 A.M., Thursday, January 9 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Dr. David Castrodale officiating. Burial was in the Sand Cemeteryin St. Francisville, MO with Reverend Bill Olmsted officiating. A Memorial was established for the Alexandria Presbyterian Church.

Virginia Arns
1932 - 2003
City of Birth: Ft. Madison, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on February 12, 1932 in Ft. Madison, IA, Virginia was the daughter of Rex Wedel and Erma Allison Wedel. Her mother died giving her birth and Virginia was raised by her aunt and uncle, Norman and Myrtle Cruze. She first married Sam Cady on February 22, 1953. She married Richard Arns in 1975 and he preceded her in death. Virginia graduated from Montrose High School with the Class of 1950. She had been employed at Thomas Truck & Castor and Montgomery Wards, both in Keokuk, IA. She and her husband Richard had owned and operated the Miss Cafe in Montrose, IA. She was later employed at the Keokuk Motor Lodge. She was a member of the Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Keokuk and the Fidelity Circle. Virginia had devoted her life to her family and friends. She was a loving mother and grandmother and treasured the times she spent with her children and grandchildren. Virginia M. Arns, 71, of Keokuk, IA, died Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at the River Hills Village in Keokuk. She is survived by two daughters, Janyce (Jim) Blankenship of Edmond, OK and Tammy Cady of Altamonte Springs, FL, three grandchildren, Ryan Blankenship, Haley Peevler Hall and Jada Blankenship, two step-daughters, Debbie (David) Tadman of Ft. Madison, IA and their children, Kyle Tadman, and Michele Uebele and her three children, and Kim (Jerry) Drenk of California and their three daughters and six grandsons, one step-son, Kurt Arns of California, one brother, Allison Wedel of Nauvoo, IL, one sister, Mable 'Muff' Childers of Ft. Madison, IA, a special niece, Karen Wardwell of Hamilton, IL and many other nieces and nephews and her ex-husband, Sam Cady of Keokuk, IA. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her aunt and uncle, Norman and Myrtle Cruze and one sister, Mildred Gowdy. Funeral services were held at 11 A.M., Saturday, May 3 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Goldie Laymon officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA. A Memorial was established for the Emmanuel United Methodist Church.

Mable Alvis (Dec 9, 1914 - Apr 11, 2004)

Gunther Ames (Apr 13, 2004 - Apr 14, 2004)

Roy Adkins (Oct 23, 1922 - Jul 30, 2004)

Lisa Arnold
1969 - 2004
City of Birth: Quincy, Illinois
City of Death: Ft. Madison, Iowa
Born on August 29, 1969 in Quincy, IL, Lisa Kay was the daughter of Jim and Sandra Arnold. Lisa graduated from the Quincy High School with the class of 1987. She attended the Riverview Church of the Nazarene in Hannibal, MO and the Assembly of God Church in Farmington, IA. She was a certified nurses aid and had cared for her parents during the last few years. Her mother and father were her whole life, and she loved angels, listening to music and working on the computer. She also enjoyed playing with her niece and nephew. She loved all her friends. Lisa Kay Arnold died Saturday, September 11, 2004 at the Ft. Madison Community Hospital as the result of an auto accident. Lisa is survived by her parents of Farmington, IA, her brother, Charles David Arnold and his wife Kelley of Quincy, IL, grandmother, Mildred Kisling of Farmington, IA, a nephew, David C. Arnold, a niece, Lauryn T. Arnold, two aunts, Beverly A Clark of Farmington, IA and Sharon G. Hicks and her husband John of Kennett, MO and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Fern & Bill Arnold, Roy H. Arnold, and Virgil Kisling. Funeral services were held at 11 A.M. Tuesday, Sept.14 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Dorothy Reed and Pastor Larry Wallingford officiating. Graveside services were held at 2 P.M. Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the Greenmount Cemetery, Quincy, IL. Memorials may be made to the family.

Josephine Allison (Nov 11, 1921 - Feb 27, 2005)

Jim Arnold (Jan 19, 1941 - May 13, 2005)

Bryce Baldwin
1976 - 2003
City of Birth: Ft. Hood, Texas
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Bryce Allen Baldwin was born July 26, 1976 in Ft. Hood, Texas, the son of Jeffrey and Kathy Deck Baldwin. He had been employed at Steel Castings and McDonalds, both in Keokuk, IA. He was a member of the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk, IA. Bryce Allen Baldwin died Monday, January 13, 2003 in Keokuk, IA at the age of 26. Bryce is survived by one son, Payton Michael Lee Baldwin of Keokuk, IA, his mother and stepfather, Kathy and Dennis Schreck of Keokuk, IA, his father and step-mother, Jeffrey and Rose Baldwin of Cedar Rapids, IA, two sisters, Kayla Marie Hatfield of Keokuk, IA and Golda Lynn Hatfield of North Liberty, IA, one step-brother, Brad Schreck of Keokuk, IA, his maternal grandparents, Bill and Rosie Deck of Keokuk, IA, his paternal grandparents, Allen & Betty Baldwin of Blairsville, GA, step-grandparents, Leon & Shirley Kerr of Keosauqua, IA, a longtime companion, Tia Dumas of Keokuk, IA, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by one sister in infancy, his paternal grandmother and a step-father. Funeral services were held at 1:30 P.M. Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA. A memorial has been established for his son.

John Boyd
1917 - 2003
City of Birth: Sandusky, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
John H. Boyd was born on December 23, 1917, in Sandusky, IA, the son of Robert and Nellie Coulter Boyd. On November 19, 1938, John was united in marriage to Marjorie McKay in Sandusky, IA. He graduated from Keokuk High School in Keokuk, IA with the Class of 1935. Mr. Boyd was a veteran of the United States Navy and served during WW II on the USS Jerauld. He had been employed the Union Electric Power Plant in Keokuk for 27 years, retiring in 1981. He was a member of the Elks Club in Keokuk, IA and the VFW Post #3508. He loved to play golf, go fishing and watch the ducks and other wildlife. He enjoyed woodworking and photography. He was a loving father and grandfather and enjoyed spending time with his family. John H. Boyd died Friday, February 28, 2003, at River Hills Village in Keokuk, IA at the age of 85. He is survived by one son, Robert Boyd of Phoenix, AZ, two daughters, Gretchen Petry and her husband Charles of St. Peter, MN, Judy Schlotter and her husband Tom Reis of Gilbert, IA, two daughters-in-law, Nancy Boyd and Vicki Boyd, eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Geraldine Boyd of Keokuk, IA, a cousin, Olive Megchelsen, two nieces, Jan Lancaster of Atlanta, GA, and Linda Griffey of Palm Springs, CA. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie, on July 5, 1995, one son, John Roger Boyd and one brother, Marshall Boyd. Private graveside services will be held at a later date. Memorials were estbalished for the Iowa Nature Conservancy or the Lee County Hospice.

Larry Benge
1937 - 2003
City of Birth: Brashear, Missouri
City of Death: Iowa City, Iowa
Larry R. Benge was born October 24, 1937 in Brashear, MO, the son of Elmer R. and Nettie Fitzgerald Benge. He married Nancy Mason in Keokuk, IA. Mr. Benge was a veteran of the United States Army. He had been employed with the Santa Fe Railroad and Foote Mineral for several years. Most recently he had been self-employed as an electronic repairman. He loved riding his motorcycle and was an avid Nascar fan. Larry R. Benge died Saturday, March 8, 2003 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA at the age of 65. He is survived by his wife, Nancy of Keokuk, IA, two sons, Jamie Hansen and his wife Regina of Carthage, IL and Shane Benge of the home, one daughter, Mindy Saunders of Keokuk, IA, three grandchildren, Jessica, Kelsey and Trenton Saunders, one brother, Wesley Spiker of Brashear, MO, special nephew, Terry Ross and his wife Carol of Keytesville, MO, nephew, Rick Spiker of Kansas City, MO, niece, Jill Rogers of Kirksville, MO, and his best friend whom he grew up with, Garry 'Pete' Petree of LaPlata, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Elaine Ross. Services were held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, March 11 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Keith Percell officiating. Burial with military rites was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A memorial was established for Shane's Education Fund.

Evelyn Bennett
1924 - 2003
City of Birth: Colfax, Iowa
City of Death: Canton, Missouri
Evelyn I. Bennett, 78, of the Lewis County Nursing Home, Canton, MO formerly of Kansas City, died Sunday, March 30, 2003 at the Nursing Home with her family by her side. She was born on October 26, 1924 in Colfax, IA, the daughter of Walter Scott and Cloe Vera Osborn Smith. In 1954, Evelyn was united in marriage to James William Ross Bennett in Kansas City, KS. He preceded her in death on April 14, 1993. Evelyn had been employed as an elevator operator for Sears and a waitress for several restaurants in Kansas City, KS. She retired in 1978. She was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary and the Moose Auxiliary in Kansas City, KS. She was an avid bingo player. She is survived by two daughters, Sharon Meginn and her husband Ralph of Kahoka, MO, Cindy Bennett of Kansas City, KS, three sons, Ellis Till, Jr. of London, OH, Ross Bennett of Manhattan, KS, and Joe L. Bennett of Hemet, CA, twelve grandchildren, James Meginn, Mrs. Kimberly McAfee, Mrs. Shelly Finley, Tracy Bennett, Crystal Bennett, Joey Bennett, Cody Bennett, Molly Bennett, Jake Bennett, Lee Till, Jimmy Strickland, and Angela Strickland, several great grandchildren, two sisters, Helen Carroll and her husband Jim of Lancaster, CA, and Vera Parker and her husband Gordon of Mesa, AZ. She was preceded in death by her husband, one son, Jimmy Till, three brothers, Walter Smith, Virgil Smith and John Smith. Memorial services were held at 10 A.M., Friday, April 4, at Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS. There was no visitation. Memorials were made to the American Cancer Society. The Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO was in charge of arrangements.

Ronald Bramhall
1926 - 2003
City of Birth: Browning, Missouri
City of Death: Hamilton, Illinois
Ronald O. Bramhall, 77, former mayor of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, April 24, 2003 at the Montebello Health Care Center in Hamilton, IL. Born January 6, 1926 in Browning, MO, Ronald was the son of G.O. 'Shorty' and Nina Pipes Bramhall. On August 9, 1952 Ronald was united in marriage to Alberta Thompson in Keokuk, IA. Mr. Bramhall graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1942. He was a veteran of the United States Army and served his country during WW II in the Railroad Battalion in Europe. After the war, he attended Carthage College in Carthage, IL. Mr. Bramhall was a member of the Keokuk Rotary Club, the American Legion, the Elk's Club, the First Lutheran Church and the Keokuk Country Club. He was an avid golfer. He was active in politics and was elected as Commissioner of Streets and Parks in 1949, serving two terms and being the youngest person to hold public office in Keokuk. In 1953 he worked for WGEM in Quincy, then for Tri-State Dairy in Keokuk. Later, he owned and operated Bramhall & Associates (Real Estate and Insurance) in Keokuk. After his retirement, he worked for Haas Realty. Once again, he went into politics and was elected Mayor of Keokuk for four terms, retiring in 1996. He is survived by his wife, Alberta, of Keokuk, IA, two sons, Douglas (Donna) Bramhall of Sun Valley, CA and Dane (Helene) Bramhall of France, two daughters, Danelle 'Danny' Rose (Jim) of Keokuk, IA and Diane Kraus (Chris) of Keokuk, IA, thirteen grandchildren,one sister, Danelle Mason of Keokuk, IA, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son, David and one sister, Rhoda Irvin. Funeral services were held at 11 A.M., Monday, April 28 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Don Rothweiler officiating. Burial with military rites was in the Keokuk National Cemetery Memorials were established for the First Lutheran Church of Keokuk, the Blessing Hospice of Hancock County (71 S. Adams, Carthage, IL 62321) or to the donor's choice.

Barton Butler, Jr.
1927 - 2003
City of Birth: Canton, Missouri
City of Death: Hamilton, Illinois
Barton O. Butler, Jr., was born August 28, 1927 in Canton, Missouri, the son of Barton O. and Mabel Fern Wickham Butler. He married Barbara Dunn on January 21, 1949 in Kahoka, MO. He graduated from Kahoka High School in 1944. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and served during the WW II. He retired from the Illinois National Guard 126th Supply Unit in Quincy, IL after 18 years with the rank of First Sergeant. First Sergeant Butler served a total of 28 years in the Armed Forces of the United States. Mr. Butler had been employed at Sheller Globe in Keokuk, IA for 6 years. Later he worked at the Iowa State Penitentiary as a food service supervisor for 14 years. He was a member of the VFW of Hamilton, IL. He loved to play golf. Barton O. Butler, Jr, of Hamilton, IL died Tuesday, July 15, 2003 at the Montebello Healthcare Center, Hamilton, IL at the age of 75. Barton is survived by six daughters, Brenda Bemis of Des Moines, Kathy Wollam and her husband Dick Meyers of Kahoka, MO, Bonnie Dieterich and her husband Gerald of Kahoka, MO, Terry Ann Gesel of Manchester, NH, Jennifer Blum and her husband Van of Kahoka, MO, Jane Porter and her husband Doug of Wayland, MO, one son Barton Raymond of Peoria, IL, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, one brother, Herb Butler and his companion Evelyn Ladwig of Kahoka, MO, his loving longtime companion, Maxine Allen of Hamilton, IL, and her children, Larry Allen and his wife Lori and their three sons of Quincy, IL, Rick Allen and his wife Theresa and their two children of Keokuk, IA, Terry Allen and his two children of Keokuk, IA, Shelly Schilson and her husband Tom of Hamilton, IL and their three children and grandchildren, his former wife, Barbara Dunn Price of Kahoka, MO, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, one infant grandson and a son-in-law, Robert Bemis. Funeral services were held at 2 P.M., Saturday, July 19 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Committal services with full military rites was held at 11 A.M., Monday, July 21 in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A Memorial was established for the Southeastern Renal Dialysis or the Donors choice.

Helen Bartle
1912 - 2003
City of Birth: Tina, Missouri
City of Death: Las Vegas, Nevada
Born on July 9, 1912 in Tina, MO, Helen was the daughter of Albert Lewis and Ruby Shore McCabe. She married Homer Bartle. He preceded her in death on February 20, 1972. In her early years Helen had been employed at Montgomery Ward in Keokuk, IA. Most recently she had been the Assistant Manager at Hocker Estates in Keokuk. She was a member of the Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Keokuk and the Women's Circle. She was an avid collector of porcelain dolls. Helen V. Bartle died Sunday, August 3, 2003 at Health South in Las Vegas, NV at the age of 91. She is survived by two sons, Reverend Duane Bartle of Las Vegas, NV and Larry Bartle of Bellevue, WA, nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by one brother, Eldon McCabe and one sister, Ruth Cain. Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, August 11, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Duane Bartle officiating. Burial was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A Memorial was established for the Emmanuel United Methodist Church.

Doris Bennett
1920 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: West Burlington, Iowa
Born on September 16, 1920 in Keokuk, IA, Doris Mae was the daughter of George 'Dewey' and Etta Mae Sells Kerns. On November 4, 1957, Doris was united in marriage to Lyle E. Bennett. Doris graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1939. Doris had been the owner of the Gold Nuggett in Keokuk, IA for 10 years, retiring in 1983. She was a member of the Eagles Club, the Moose, the VFW Auxiliary and the Southside Boat Club. She attended New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk, IA and considered that her church home. She was an avid Bingo player and enjoyed visiting with her friends. She was an excellent cook and loved to prepare big meals for her family and friends. Doris Mae Bennett died Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at the Great River Medical Center in West Burlington, IA at the age of 82. Survivors include one son, John R. Foster of Quincy, IL, one daughter, Lori Bawden and her husband Kent of Keokuk, IA, one step-daughter, Carolyn Dunn and her husband Lloyd of Mitchell, NE, one step-son, Kenneth Bennett and his wife Shelly of Georgetown, IN, four grandsons, Joshua Foster, Korey, Kaleb & Kegan Bawden, seven step-grandchildren, Nancy, Kimberly, Patty, Christi, Michael, Jeff & Stacy, eleven step-great-grandchildren, two sisters, Betty Sheffler of Wayland, MO and Joyce Denofrio of Keokuk, IA and a very special friend, Harold Bennett. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle, on September 6, 1992 and her parents. Funeral services were held at 2 P.M., Friday, August 29 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Burial was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A memorial was established for her grandchildren's education.

Roy Bourgeois
1912 - 2003
City of Birth: Wyaconda, Missouri
City of Death: Kahoka, Missouri
Roy Eldon Bourgeois, 91, of Kahoka, MO died Sunday, November 09, 2003 at the Clark County Nursing Home in Kahoka, MO. He was born October 15, 1912 in rural Wyaconda, MO, a son of Andrew and Florence Adams Bourgeois. He married Rachel Irene Lawson on January 1, 1936 in Luray, MO. She survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Doris I. Sims and her husband Ron of Sherman, TX, Mary O. Gilchrist and her husband Richard of Collierville, TN, one son, Eldon W. Bourgeois and his wife Maxine of Kahoka, MO, 8 grandchildren, Tammie S. Simmons and husband Don, Tony S. Sims and wife Vivian, Troy S. Sims and wife Sandra, Brent W. Bourgeois and his wife Tracy, Johnna J. Kermes and husband Tony, April G. Sanders and husband Lee, Amber K. Thompson and husband Robert and Aimee K. Gilchrist, 10 great grandchildren, Justin and Robin Sims, Dustin Turner, Timothy Hamel, Seana Waldrum, Ryan and LaTisha Bourgeois, Alix, Sage and Levi Kermes, one sister, Andrea Norton of Wyaconda, MO and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Guy and Glenn Bourgeois and one granddaughter, Shelia Bourgeois. Roy attended Black Elementary School and Ballard High School. He was a member of the New Woodville Baptist Church for many years. He later became a member of the Wyaconda First Baptist Church. He was a lifelong farmer in Clark County. He also worked as a linesman for the Telephone Company in Neeper. Roy was a school board member of Black and Ballard School Districts and served as president and treasurer for many years. Roy was a hard worker and devoted his life to farming and his family. He raised horses for the enjoyment of his grandchildren. For two years in a row, at the age of 88 and 89 he was the oldest Clark County Citizen at the Old Settlers Celebration. He enjoyed woodworking and had made toys for all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He raised chickens and gathered eggs up to the time he entered the Nursing Home in 2002. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family. The love and wonderful memories he has created with his family will never be forgotten. Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, November 12, 2003 at the Wyaconda First Baptist Church in Wyaconda, MO with Reverend Ernest Deatrick officiating. Burial was in the New Woodville Cemetery, rural Wyaconda. Visitation was held after 9:00 A.M. Tuesday with the family meeting with friends from 6-8 P.M. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO. Memorials were made to the Wyaconda First Baptist Church or the New Woodville CemeteryAssociation. The Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO was in charge of arrangements.

Mildred Boone (Oct 28, 1916 - Dec 26, 2003)

Donald Black (Apr 6, 1927 - Jan 22, 2004)

Leota Ball
1919 - 2004
City of Birth: Clark County, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Leota M. Ball, 84, of Kahoka, MO died Sunday morning, February 8, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital in Keokuk, IA. She was born February 23, 1919 in Clark County, MO, a daughter of Mike and Nellie Danker Uhlmeyer. She married Francis Ball on May 29, 1941 in Kahoka, MO. He died on December 7, 1981. Survivors include three sons, Marion Ball, Ralph Ball and Kenney Ball and his wife Carla, all of Kahoka, MO, six grandchildren, Tony, Tommy, Troy, Bryan, Keith and Jarrod Ball, seven great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren, two sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, John and Leo Uhlmeyer and one grandson, Danny Ball. Leota and her husband owned and operated Ball Fertilizer and Farms for 31 years. She was raised of the Catholic Faith. She enjoyed playing cards and cooking when she wasn't working. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 11, 2004 at the Kahoka Cemeterywith Pastor Shawn McAfee officiating. Leota requested that there be no visitation. Friends registered at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO Tuesday and Wednesday until the time of the service. Memorials were made to the Clark County Ambulance or the Clark County Nursing Home Activities Fund.

Norma Bogener (May 8, 1921 - Feb 8, 2004)

Jeffrey Bliss
1954 - 2004
City of Birth: Primghar,, Iowa
City of Death: Iowa City,, Iowa
Jeffrey P. Bliss was born February 25, 1954 in Primghar, IA, the son of James William and Helen Chastine Hickman Bliss. On June 8, 1975, Jeff was united in marriage to Rebecca Harshbarger in Keokuk, IA. Jeff graduated from Keokuk Senior High School with the Class of 1972. He attended the United States Naval Academy, received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Iowa in 1976, and his Master's of Science degree from the University of Kansas in 1985. Jeff was a golf professional at Meadowbrook and Mission Hills Country Clubs in Kansas City from 1978-1983. He and his family moved to Keokuk, Iowa in 1987. He worked for many years in accounting and banking in the Keokuk area, most recently W. L. Miller & Company. He was president of Security State Bank in Hamilton, Illinois, and had been an accounting/finance instructor for Iowa Wesleyan and Culver-Stockton Colleges since 1990. Jeff was past president of the Keokuk Country Club and the Keokuk Area Chamber of Commerce. His past memberships include: The Keokuk School Board, Tri-State Coalition Against Family Violence, Keokuk Little League, Hamilton Sports Boosters, Great River Economic Development Foundation, Iowa Alumni Association, I-Club Member, and the University of Kansas Alumni Association. He was a Little League, AAU, and YMCA coach as well as a long-time member and a Youth Sponsor of the United Presbyterian Church of Keokuk. Jeff devoted his life to his family and took great pleasure in the accomplishments of his children. Jeffrey P. Bliss died Sunday, February 22, 2004 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA at the age of 49. He is survived by his wife Rebecca of Hamilton, IL, two sons, Ryan Tyler Bliss and his wife Yvette of Carthage, IL, Daniel Evan Bliss of the home, two daughters, Kathryn Sinclair Bliss and Lauren Mackenzie Bliss, both of the home, one granddaughter, Ali Bliss, his mother, Helen Bliss of Hamilton, IL, one brother, Gregg Andrews and his wife Debbie of Keokuk, IA, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 26 at the United Presbyterian Church in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Brian Rihner officiating. Private burial will be at a later date. A memorial has been established for the Bliss Children's Education Fund.

Lillie Benge (Feb 13, 1925 - Mar 31, 2004)

Samuel Berry (May 11, 1931 - Apr 14, 2004)

Virgie Bender (Aug 7, 1910 - Apr 22, 2004)

Harold Bowen
1927 - 2004
City of Birth: Lee County, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Harold J. Bowen was born on March 18, 1927 in Lee County, IA the son of Guy and Alice Stephenson Bowen. He married Rose Marie Stoneking Worrell on June 8, 1962 in Kahoka, MO. He was a Veteran of the United States Navy and served his country during WW II. Harold was a lifelong resident of Keokuk and had been employed at Electro-metals, which became Foote Mineral in Keokuk for forty years, retiring in 1986. He attended the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk, was a member of the Operating Engineers Union and the V.F.W. He loved his dogs and enjoyed going fishing and golfing. Harold J. Bowen died Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at his home at the age of 77. Harold is survived by two sons, Bruce Bowen and Joe Bowen both of Keokuk, IA, two step-sons, William Worrell and his wife Debbie of Glenwood, IA, and Danny Worrell and his wife Louise of Concord, CA, two sisters, Ruth Householder of Keokuk, IA and Helen LaBonte and her husband John of Warsaw, IL, Five grandchildren, two great grandchildren and the family of the late Edna Day. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose, on September 21, 1971, one brother, Alfred 'Babe' Bowen, longtime companion, Edna Day and his little dachshund, Tiny. Memorials may be made to the New Testament Christian Church or the Lee County Hospice.

Scot Boley
1960 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Warsaw, Illinois
Scot Mathew Boley was born on September 10, 1960 in Keokuk, IA, the son of John and Elaine Lambert Boley. On September 10, 1997, Scot was united in marriage to Andrea Jones in Keokuk, IA. He was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, IA. He enjoyed fishing, motorcycling and wrenching. Most of all, Scot enjoyed the times he spent with his family and friends. Scot Mathew Boley, 43, died Saturday, May 15, 2004 at his home in Warsaw, IL at the age of 43. He is survived by his wife, Andrea, four children, Shaleen Jones and Dylan Boley both of the home, Tiann Boley of Davenport, IA, and Kori Boley of Wewohitchka, FL, two grandchildren, Kyle and Tyson, six brothers, John Boley III and his wife Chris of Burlington, IA, Mark Boley and his wife Tammy of Keokuk, IA, Andy Boley of Burlington, IA, Doug Boley of Clarinda, IA, Todd Boley of Keokuk, IA and Danny Boley and his wife Rosie of Burlington, IA, two sisters, Pam Belton and her husband Mike of Keokuk, IA, and Peggy Jahani and her husband Mohammad of Sacramento, CA, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, one brother in infancy, Dale Joseph Boley and one sister, Penny Boley Dill. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 19 at the All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk with Father Christopher David officiating. Burial will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemeteryin Carthage, IL. Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Tuesday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with the family meeting with friends from 7 - 9 p.m. A memorial has been established for the family.

Scott Bryant
1967 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Ft. Madison, Iowa
Scott Edward Bryant, 36, of Donnellson, IA, died Monday, May 17, 2004 in Ft. Madison, IA. He was born on July 17, 1967 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Edward and Alice Young Bryant. On July 23, 1988, Scott was united in marriage to Micki Beaird in Keokuk, IA. She survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Brooke and Bailie Bryant, both of the home, his parents, Edward and Alice Bryant of Montrose, IA, his parents-in-law, Kenneth and Sally Beaird of Keokuk, IA, one brother, Bradley Bryant and his wife Denise of Montrose, IA, two sisters-in-law, Tammi Kircher and her husband Ed of Keokuk, IA,and Terri Christenson and her husband Mike of Kansas City, MO, one brother-in-law, Doug Beaird and his wife Mary of Burlington, IA, two nephews, Kole Bryant and Dilan Beaird, five nieces, Megan and Kali Kircher, Molly and Anna Christenson and Hilary Beaird. He was preceded in death by his grandparents. Scott graduated from Central Lee High School with the Class of 1985. He had been employed at the Iowa State Penitentiary in Ft. Madison, IA as a CERT Officer for seventeen years. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Keokuk, IA, the N.A. Hunting Club, the Green Acres Country Club and the AFSCME Union. Scott was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt, especially bow hunting. He also enjoyed fishing and golfing and riding Harley Davidsons. He was a loving husband and father and cherished the times he spent with his family. He was proud to be able to coach his daughter's softball team. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 20 at the First Christian Church of Keokuk, IA with Reverend Bill Mitchell officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul Evangelical Cemeteryin Donnellson, IA. Visitation will be held after 4 p.m., Wednesday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with the family meeting with friends from 6 - 9 p.m. A memorial has been established for his children's education fund.

Marie Benner (Dec 2, 1912 - Jul 30, 2004)

Zola Byrn
1942 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Columbia, Missouri
Zola Marie Byrn, 62, of Granger, MO died Saturday, August 07, 2004 at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, MO. She was born January 4, 1942 in Keokuk, IA, a daughter of Melvin Lloyd and Lena Garnet Boice Walker. On March 18, 1961, Zola was united in marriage to Larry M. Byrn in Wayland, MO. He preceded her in death on February 8, 1994. Zola had lived in Wayland, MO most of her life, moving to Granger, MO in 1976. She was a graduate of Kahoka High School in 1959. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Wayland, MO. She enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles, listening to music and cross stitch. She treasured the times she spent with her family and friends. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren. Survivors include one daughter, Brenda Smith and her husband Charles of Granger, MO, two sons, Rick Byrn and his wife Pam of Revere, MO and Richard Byrn of Granger, MO, three grandchildren, Erick Byrn and his mother Linda, Summer Petersen and Britney Smith, two sisters, Bernadine Wilson of Kahoka, MO and Betty Hecox of St. Francisville, MO, two brothers, Winston Walker of St. Francisville, MO and Bernard Walker and his wife Mary of Canton, MO, special friend Roy Vanlaningham of Granger, MO, the loving Byrn family, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, Duane Byrn on June 5, 2000, three sisters, Doris Mansfield, Shirley Whitaker and Janice Sue Walker in infancy and two brothers, Wayne and Marvin Walker. Funeral services were held at 1:30 P.M., Tuesday, August 10, 2004 at the First Baptist Church in Wayland, MO with Reverend Dan Deatrick officiating. Burial was in the Coffey Cemeteryin Downing, MO. Visitation was held after 11:00 A.M. Monday with the family meeting with friends from 6-8 P.M. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO. Memorials were made to the family.

Larry Bennett
1938 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Larry W. Bennett was born on May 26, 1938 in Keokuk, IA, the son of James Thomas and Florence Josie Bennett. He married Sharon Merle Billups on September 12, 1958 in Granger, MO. He married Sharon Clouse Starr on March 7, 1998 in Keokuk, IA. Larry graduated from the Granger High School in Granger, MO with the Class of 1957. He had been employed with Banker's Life and Casualty and retired after 31 years of service. Larry had many interests and hobbies. He enjoyed pheasant and quail hunting, riding motorcycles, reading, boating and vacationing. His favorite cars were Lincolns and Cadillac's, which were the only cars he drove. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and treasured the times he spent with his family. Larry Bennett died Wednesday, November 3, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital at the age of 66. He is survived by his wife, Sharon of Keokuk, IA, two daughters. Susie Rettig and her husband Jamie of Donnellson, IA, and Sherry Bennett and her husband Steve Carlton of Hamilton, IL, one son, James Bennett and his wife Dawn of Dexter, MO, three stepsons, Dale Starr and his wife Mary of Jacksonville, FL, Ken Jones and his wife Diane of Warsaw, IL, and Gary Starr of Keokuk, IA, three stepdaughters, Sharon Vorhies of St. Louis, MO, Patty Handyside and her husband John of Hannibal, MO and Debra Jones and her husband Daryl of Keokuk, IA, one brother, Meredith J. Bennett and his wife Irma of Moline, IL, twenty grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Travis Lee Rettig. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 6 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Goldie Laymon officiating. Burial will be in the Granger Cemeteryin Granger, MO. Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Friday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with the family meeting with friends from 6 - 8 p.m. A Memorial has been established.

Maxine Burgess (Jul 1, 1927 - Dec 18, 2004)

Junior Brown (Aug 17, 1912 - Dec 20, 2004)