Abigail Tanner
2003 - 2003
City of Birth: Normal, Illinois
City of Death: Urbana, Illinois
Abigail Olivia Tanner, infant daughter of Chad and Andrea Luedtke Tanner, died Saturday June 21, 2003 at the Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. She was born Friday, June 20, 2003 at the Bromenn Hospital in Normal, IL. She is survived by her parents of Normal, IL, maternal grandparents, Paul and Diana Luedtke of Keokuk, IA, paternal grandparents, Larry and Nellie Tanner of Warsaw, IL, maternal great-grandmother, Dorothy Luedtke of Keokuk, IA, paternal great-grandmother, Levetta Stone of Quincy, IL, aunts and uncles, Stephanie and Corey Baker of Keokuk, IA, Rebecca and Kevin Bogert of Sedalia, MO, Debbie and Rick Mortimer of Donnellson, IA, Donna and Jeff Tobias of West Point, IL, cousins, Lance and Dana Mortimer, Matthew, Ross and Brooke Tobias. She was preceded in death by two paternal and two maternal great-grandfathers and one paternal and 2 maternal great-grandmothers. Private family graveside services were held Tuesday, July 1, at the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA with Reverend Fred Lohman officiating. A Memorial was established for the Carle Hospital Foundation Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Urbana, IL.

Ralph Tucker
1926 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Knoxville, Iowa
Ralph R. Tucker was born October 16, 1926 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Richard and Helen Anderson Tucker. Mr. Tucker lived in Lee County most of his life. He was a handyman and loved the outdoors. Ralph R. Tucker died Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at the VA Medical Center in Knoxville, IA at the age of 76. He is survived by one brother, Kenneth Tucker and his wife Virginia of Turner, OR, five sisters, Patricia Orton and her husband Leo of Memphis, MO, Lottie Clark and her husband William of Blue Grass, IA, Dorothy Fraune and her husband Jim of Revere, MO, Judy Tucker of Revere, MO, Mary Stepp and her husband Leroy of Keokuk, IA, one sister- in- law Freida Tucker of Keokuk, IA and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Tucker, Raymond Tucker, and two sisters, Norma Heavin and Edna Radestock. Private graveside services were held Monday at Sunset Memorial Park in Keokuk, IA. Memorials were established for the VA Medical Center in Iowa City, Iowa or the donor's choice.

Mary Thoeny
1921 - 2003
City of Birth: Coatsville, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on August 2, 1921 in Coatsville, MO Mary was the daughter of Dan and Maude Veatch Hoover. On November 2, 1945 she married Ralph 'Bud' Thoeny in Des Moines, IA. She was employed at Keaslings in Keokuk for twenty years before retiring in 1991. Mary was a member of the First Baptist Church in Keokuk, member of the Board of Deaconess of the church, member of the KYB Friendship Class and had taught Sunday school at the church for 35 years. She loved to quilt and had made many beautiful quilts for friends and family. Mary M. Thoeny died Saturday morning, October 25, 2003 at her home at the age of 82. She is survived by one daughter, Mary Kay Hawley and her husband Douglas of Cypress, TX, one son, Mark Thoeny and his wife Edwina of Scotsdale, AZ, three grandchildren, Mark and Jeff Hawley and Tabetha Thoeny, four great grandchildren, Jackson Thoeny Whisenhunt and Connor Douglas Hawley, Savannah Hawley and Madison Hawley, one sister, Hazel Grady of Aurora, CO, two brothers, Ralph Hoover of Glenwood, MO and Russell Hoover of Mesa AZ. She was preceded in death by her husband, 'Bud', on April 15, 1993, two sisters, Janie Sigmund and Helen Bentler and two brothers, Harold and Gerald Hoover. Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, October 29, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Rev. Dale Thomas officiating. Burial was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A Memorial was established for the First Baptist Church Deaconess Board.

Richard Thrush
1949 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Richard 'Rico' Thrush, 54, of Keokuk, IA died Monday, February 2, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital, Keokuk, IA. He was born on November 1, 1949 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Wilson E. and Geraldine L. Hickey Thrush. He first married Scarlett McKnight and to this union were born two children, Todd and Terri. He then married Dona Monroe and to this union were born two children, Mandy and Corrin. He, together with Jill Thompson had one son, Travis. He had been employed at Hickey's Contracting in Keokuk, IA for 20 years. Most recently he had been employed with Keokuk Contractors. He was a member of the Southside Boat Club in Keokuk, IA. He loved to spend time on the river. He enjoyed watching Nascar races and also did some stock car racing himself. He was a people person and liked to be with his friends. He was a hard worker and an excellent handyman, able to do about anything. He is survived by five children, Todd Thrush of Cedar Rapids, IA, Terri Thrush of Keokuk, IA, Mandy Humphry and her husband John of Hamilton, IL, Corrin Childress and her husband Brandon of Atlanta, GA and Travis Thrush of Keokuk, IA, his companion, Patty Howell of Keokuk, IA, his mother, Geraldine Thrush of Hamilton, IL, one brother, Ronald Thrush and his wife Patty of Keokuk, IA, and six grandchildren, Cecily Quisenberry, Arianna Thrush, Trent Wilsey, Corrin Wilsey, Blaze Fisher and Zarra Humphry. He was preceded in death by his father. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., Thursday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Burial was in the Buena Vista Mound Cemeteryin rural Keokuk. Following the graveside service everyone was invited to gather with the family at Chintz's Bar and Grill in Keokuk, IA. A memorial has been established for the family.

Darlene Tuttle
1929 - 2004
City of Birth: Brush, Colorado
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on May 13, 1929 in Brush, CO, Darlene was the daughter of Frank L. and Agnes V. Callahan Matous. On September 3, 1957, Darlene was united in marriage to Jack L. Tuttle at St. Mary's Church in Keokuk, IA. Darlene moved to Keokuk from Dubuque, IA in 1943. She graduated from Keokuk Senior High with the Class of 1949. She received the BPW award while in High School. She was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, IA and belonged to the Ladies of Charity and the Daughters of Isabella's Rosary. Darlene enjoyed traveling and seeing new places. She loved to go fishing and enjoyed baking for her family. Darlene Roberta Tuttle died Monday, December 6, 2004 at her home at the age of 75. She is survived by her husband, Jack, of Keokuk, IA, one brother, Allen L. Matous and his wife, Joyce of Keokuk, IA, one brother in law, Charles 'Bill' Tuttle of Keokuk, IA, one sister-in-law, Betty Tuttle of Keokuk, IA, two nieces and one nephew that Jack & Darlene helped raise, Tammy Archambault of Palm Harbor, FL, Julie Matous of Mason City, IA and Craig Matous of Port Richey, FL, and several other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister-in-law, Jean Tuttle and one brother-in-law, Bob Tuttle. Graveside services were held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 8 at the Keokuk National Cemeterywith Deacon Bill Cosgrove officiating In lieu of flowers, a memorial was established for the Lee County Hospice.

Ruth VanDyke
1933 - 2004
City of Birth: Franklin County, Unknown
City of Death: Kahoka, Missouri
Ruth Marie VanDyke, 70, of Revere, MO died Saturday, April 17, 2004 at the Clark County Nursing Home in Kahoka, MO. She was born November 12, 1933, in Franklin County, MO, a daughter of Roy Emerson and Clara Agnes (Wussler) Edmondson. She married Leland Louis 'Van' VanDyke on November 26, 1955 in Hamilton, IL. He preceded her in death on November 8, 1997. Ruth was a graduate of the Revere C-3 High School. She was a member of the Peaksville Christian Church. She had worked for the Wayland Special Road District as a tollbooth employee for several years. Ruth had a great love for animals, always having room for another stray cat or dog. She had a housecat that she loved dearly. She enjoyed reading and going to the Casino to play the slot machines. Ruth enjoyed visiting with her friends and neighbors and was involved with the Revere Community Center and the Fire Department. She also enjoyed being around children. She is survived by one sister, Jane Cook and her husband Paul of Macon, MO, one brother, Charles Edmondson and his wife Ruth of Kahoka, MO, three nieces, Debra Smith of LaGrange, MO, LeeAnn Stark of Excello, MO and Kristina Noyes of Macon, MO, three nephews, Leo Wayne Olson of Maywood, MO, Paul Cook of Kidder, MO and Matthew Cook of Macon, MO, other nieces, nephews, cousins and great nieces and nephews and a host of friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Bettie L. Olson and one niece, Julie Ann Edmondson. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 22, 2004 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO with Pastor Shawn McAfee officiating. Burial was in the Moss Ridge Cemetery, Carthage, IL. Visitation was held from 1-2 p.m. Thursday prior to the funeral. Friends registered at the funeral home Wednesday from 9-4 and Thursday. Memorials were made to the Revere Community Center, the Revere Fire Department or the Peaksville Christian Church.

Herbert Wheatley, Jr.
1975 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Herbert 'Herb' L. Wheatley was born on November 20, 1975 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Herbert L. and Sharon Ellison Wheatley, Sr. He graduated from Keokuk High School in Keokuk, IA with the Class of 1994. He had been employed at Meyers Driveway & Septic Service for five years. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Keokuk, IA. He enjoyed wrestling, football and church softball. He was a loving father and his son was the center of his life. Herbert 'Herb' L. Wheatley, Jr., 27, died Saturday, January 11, 2003 at the Keokuk Area Hospital as the result of an auto accident. He is survived by his son, Austin Lee Wheatley of Keokuk, IA, his parents, Herbert & Sharon Wheatley of Keokuk, IA, one brother, Richard Eugene Wheatley and his wife Lori of Keokuk, IA, four sisters, Tammy Lee Branzi of Council Bluffs, IA, Tina Marie Wheatley-Couchman of Keokuk, IA, Traci A. Helenthal and her husband Robert of Keokuk, IA, and Lisa R. Burnett and her husband Scott of Keokuk, IA, numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, January 13, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Bill Mitchell officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA. A memorial has been established for his son.

Herbert Wheatley
1946 - 2004
City of Birth: Dallas City, Illinois
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Herbert LeeRay Wheatley, Sr, 57, of Keokuk, Iowa died Wednesday, July 7, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital. Herbert LeeRay Wheatley, Sr. was born on September 19, 1946 in Dallas City, IL the son of Claude and Henrietta Clark Wheatley. On June 17, 1972, Herb was united in marriage to Sharon Ellison in Keokuk, IA. Herb graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1965. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam Conflict. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Keokuk, IA. Herb enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing softball. He loved to ride his motorcycle and was a Harley enthusiast. He liked to watch football and was a loyal Dallas Cowboy fan. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife Sharon, of Keokuk, IA, one son, Rick Wheatley and his wife Lori of Keokuk, IA, four daughters, Tammy Breznai of Council Bluffs, IA, Tina Couchman, Traci Helenthal and her husband Robert and Lesia Burnett and her husband Scott all of Keokuk, IA, a grandson whom he was raising, Austin Lee Wheatley of the home, 17 grandchildren, two brothers, Don Wheatley and his wife Rhonda of Keokuk, IA, Ed Wheatley and his wife Theresa of Columbia, MO, and one sister, Carolyn Soper and her husband Kenny of Keokuk, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Herbert Wheatley, Jr. Graveside services with military rites were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 12, at the Keokuk National Cemetery, Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. A memorial was established for the family.

Marcellus Woods
2003 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Marcellus Treyvon Woods, son of Amy Varnold and Cecil Tyrone Woods, died at birth on Wednesday, April 23, 2003 at the Keokuk Area Hospital. He is survived by his parents of Keokuk, IA, his maternal grandmother, Terry Varnold of Keokuk, IA, maternal grandfather, Robert Varnold of Anaheim, CA, maternal great-grandmothers Velma Layman and Patricia Varnold both of Keokuk, IA paternal grandmother Sally Woods of Keokuk, IA, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Cecil Woods. Graveside services were held at 1 P.M., Monday, April 28 at the Sunset Memorial Park in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Sylvia Tillman officiating.

Apriel Walker
1970 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Iowa City, Iowa
Apriel Lynn Walker was born January 3, 1970 in Keokuk, IA, the daughter of Patricia Mae Walker. She graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1989. April loved to write and had written many poems. She also enjoyed her cats, reading and working crossword puzzles. She loved her family and treasured the moments she was able to spend with them. Apriel Lynn Walker died Tuesday, June 3, 2003 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA at the age of 33. She is survived by her mother, Patricia Walker of Keokuk, IA, her fiance', Brad Wollam of Keokuk, IA, three aunts, Rebecca Tolbert and her husband Sim, Jean Bradley and her husband King and Norma Bunton all of Keokuk, IA, two uncles, Jerry Walker and his wife June of Keokuk, IA, Terry Walker of Wichita, KS and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dorothy and Delmar Walker. Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 7 at 2 P.M. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Pastor Sylvia Tillman officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA. A Memorial was established for the Southeastern Renal Dialysis in Keokuk, IA.

Ve Wardlow
1917 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Montrose, Iowa
Born on May 6, 1917 in Keokuk, IA, Ve was the daughter of Hugh E. and Ve Starr Tweedy. She married Gale Wharton in 1936 in Ft. Madison, IA. She later married Ellis Wardlow on December 2, 1954 in Keokuk, IA. Ve graduated from the Montrose High School with the Class of 1935. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Montrose, IA and a member of the Christian Home Study Club. She loved music and enjoyed singing in the church choir. She also enjoyed arrowhead hunting and antiquing. She was an excellent seamstress and cake decorator. Ve was a loving mother and grandmother and treasured the times she spent with her family. Ve Starr Wardlow died Monday, September 8, 2003 at the Montrose Health Center in Montrose, IA at the age of 86. Ve is survived by one daughter, Carol Christensen and her husband Guerden of Montrose, IA, one son Stan Wardlow and his wife Laurie of Montrose, IA, thirteen grandchildren, Eric Lanman (Santya), Starr Lanman (Tom Greenfield), Hope Krebill (Ron), Ryan Christensen, Mark Lanman (Gina), Alisa Parker (Tom), Karen Nolte (Rich), Laura Wardlow, Greg Wardlow, Mike Gibbons, Matt Gibbons, Nick Gibbons and Natia Gibbons, 10 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, former daughter-in-law, Ann Haas of Nauvoo, IL, three sisters, Marjorie Lind of Keokuk, IA, Elizabeth Dresser and her husband Harry of Montrose, IA, Virginia Pezley and her husband John of Argyle, IA, one brother, David Tweedy and his wife Elsie of Montrose, IA, four sisters-in-law, Phoebe Tweedy of Donnellson, IA, Pearl Tweedy of Montrose, IA, Edith Tweedy of Montrose, IA, and Alta Tweedy of Oregon, one brother-in-law, Eston Woodruff of Keosauqua, IA, her best friend, Olive Megchelson of Montrose, IA, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ellis, on February 17, 1984.one daughter, Starr Wharton, one son, Alan Wharton, four brothers, Jim, Kenneth, Hugh and Jay Tweedy, three sisters, Mildred Lee, Katheryn Lowenberg and Florence Woodruff, three brothers-in-law, Merton Lind, Harry Lee and Carmi Lowenberg, and one sister-in-law, Fern Tweedy. A memorial service was held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, September 13, at the Montrose Trinity United Methodist Church in Montrose, IA with Reverend Elliott George officiating. A Memorial has been established for the Montrose Trinity United Methodist Church.

Ernest Walker
1911 - 2003
City of Birth: Wayland, Missouri
City of Death: Fort Madison, Iowa
Ernest B. "Cappy" Walker, 92, of Ft. Madison, IA, formerly of Revere, MO, died Tuesday, November 25, 2003 in Fort Madison, IA. He was born July 6, 1911 near Revere, MO, a son of Clarence W. and Mary M. Scrimsher Walker. He married Viva M. "Vi" Stehl on August 15, 1932 in Carthage, IL. She died on October 4, 1985. Mr. Walker was a farmer his entire life and had retired from his farm in rural Revere, moving to Kahoka, MO for a few years before moving to rural Fort Madison, IA, where he had lived for the past 15 years. While living at Revere, he had served on the Revere School Board. He enjoyed traveling, reading Louis Lamour westerns, observing domesticated and wild horses, watching and listening to music. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was of the Christian faith and read his bible daily, having read the entire bible several times. Survivors include three sons and three daughters, Robert L. Walker and his wife Wanda of rural Alexandria, MO, Mrs. Ronald (Rovene) Cochran of rural Fort Madison, IA, Stanley E. Walker and his wife Marilyn of Bullhead City, AZ, Mrs. James (Melba) Crago of Jefferson City, MO, Harold L. Walker and his wife Flo of rural Fort Madison, IA and Patricia S. Walker and fiance' Wayne Marshall of Woodbridge, VA, 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild as well as nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Mildred Walker, three brothers, Lloyd, Raymond and Ervin Walker and one grandson, Michael Cochran. Open visitation will be held from 3-8 P.M. Thursday, November 27. Family will meet with friends from 12-2 P.M. Friday, prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Friday, November 28, 2003 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO with Reverend John Simpson officiating. Burial will be in the Sand Cemeteryin St. Francisville, MO. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital.

Eldon Westermeyer
1926 - 2003
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Iowa City, Iowa
Eldon D. Westermeyer was born September 12, 1926 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Louis and Clesta Derr Westermeyer. He married Gloria Ruth Thompson on September 2, 1950 in Keokuk, IA. Eldon graduated from the Argyle High School in Argyle, IA with the Class of 1944. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and served from 1944 - 1946. He had been employed as a truck driver for Vermillion Brothers and Caldwell Coal, both in Keokuk, IA. In his earlier years, he had helped build the Keokuk lock and had also worked for Best Construction. He was a member of the Teamsters Union and the American Legion. He loved racing horses and playing cards, especially poker. Eldon D. Westermeyer died Monday, December 7, 2003 at the VA Hospital in Iowa City, IA at the age of 77. Survivors include three sons, Rocky Westermeyer and his wife Mick of Montrose, IA, Stuart Westermeyer of Keokuk, IA and Vince Westermeyer of Keokuk, IA, four grandchildren, Candy Hopp, Jessie Mueller, Michelle Jerkin and Jassie Annis, four great-grandchildren, Tyler and Megan Hopp, Kaitlyn and Raliegh Jr. Annis, three sisters, Lola Tonn of Bettendorf, IA, Audrey Klein of Burlington, IA, and Florabelle Fickel of Burlington, IA and one brother, Melvin Westermeyer of Keokuk, IA. He was preceded in death by four brothers, George, Norman, Gilbert and Calvin. Visitation was held Thursday, December 11 from 6 - 8 P.M. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with the family meeting with friends at that time. There was no service. Mr. Westermeyer's body was donated to the University of Iowa for medical research. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.

Ida Webster
1911 - 2004
City of Birth: Scotland County, Missouri
City of Death: Kahoka, Missouri
Born on May 31, 1911 in Scotland County, MO, Ida May was the daughter of T. George and Matie E. Smith Shannan. On March 8, 1936, Ida was united in marriage to Russell Webster in Memphis, MO. Mrs. Webster was a lifelong resident of Missouri and spent over 30 Winters in Lakeland, FL. She was a graduate of Memphis High School. She taught school at the Jordan School for a year and then became a homemaker. She was a member of the New Woodville Baptist Church. She loved to crochet and had made many special items for her family. Ida May Webster died Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at the Clark County Nursing Home in Kahoka, MO at the age of 92. She is survived by three sons, George W. Wagner and his wife Jan of Luray, MO, Stanley J. Webster and his wife Virginia of Kahoka, MO, and Russell Webster and his wife Bonnie of Wyaconda, MO, One daughter, Geraldine M. Berringer of St. Petersburg, FL., 9 grandchildren, Ralph W. Wagner and his wife Shelley, Holly S. Wagner, Jo Lee Orton and her husband Larry, Eric Webster, Jeff Webster, Debbie Underwood, Kevin Underwood and his wife Nancy, John W. Roth, and Tia Roth, and 8 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell on March 15, 1991, one daughter, Ardyth Louise Roth, one granddaughter, Julia Anna Roth, one sister and five brothers. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 24 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO with Reverend Ernest Deatrick and Reverend Rick Seaton officiating. Burial was in the New Woodville Cemetery, rural Wyaconda, MO. Memorials were made to the New Woodville Church or to the Donor's Choice.

Matthew White
2000 - 2004
City of Birth: Iowa City, Iowa
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Matthew Ryan Albright White was born on September 17, 2000 in Iowa City, Iowa. He attended the Hawthorne Developmental Preschool in Keokuk, IA. Matthew loved to ride tractors and four-wheelers. He enjoyed watching Blues Clues. He was a very special boy, full of love and fun, and brought much joy to his family. Matthew died on Sunday, February 1, 2004 at his home. He is survived by his mother and father, Kimberly McSorley and Tony White, of Keokuk, IA, his maternal grandparents, Velda White of Mt. Pleasant, IA, and Dale McSorley and his fiance' Dawn Stuart of Mt. Pleasant, IA, his paternal grandparents, June and Jim Hahn of Keokuk, IA and Rob and Mercedes White of Montrose, IA, his maternal great-grandparents, Dale and Carol White of Mt. Pleasant, IA and Joy McSorley of Winfield, IA, and his paternal great-grandmother, Rita White of Indianola, Iowa. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 3, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Dan Deatrick and Bob Fox officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemeteryin Keokuk, IA. A Memorial was established for the family.

Lora Williams
1912 - 2004
City of Birth: Revere, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on November 6, 1912 in Revere, MO, Lora was the daughter of Luke D. and Belle Williams King. On October 21, 1933, Lora was united in marriage to J.B. Williams in Keokuk, IA. He preceded her in death on December 5, 1995. She was an active member of the Keokuk Church of the Nazarene and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Lora was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother and cherished the time she spent with her family. Lora M. Williams died Wednesday, March 31, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital at the age of 91. She is survived by four sons, James Williams, Jr. and his wife Frances of Keokuk, IA, Marvin Williams and his wife Linda of Denmark, IA, Keith Williams and his wife Linda of Dickison, TX and Luke D. Williams and his wife Pam of Greely, CO, three daughters, Atha Short and her husband Robert of Pekin, IL, Letha Smith and her husband Robert of Carthage, IL and Nellie Skinner and her husband Tom of Keokuk, IA, twenty one grandchildren, thirty one great-grandchildren, one great great grandchild and one brother Hubert King of Alexander, VA. She was preceded in death by one son, Ward Williams and two sisters, Lila Laporte and Leona Toops. Funeral services were held at 1 P.M. Saturday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Rev. Grant Foster officiating. Burial was in the Sunset Memorial Park in Keokuk, IA. A Memorial was established for the Keokuk Church of the Nazarene.

Donald Wessel
1929 - 2004
City of Birth: St. Louis, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Donald C. Wessel was born on November 25, 1929 in St. Louis, MO, the son of Charles and Agnes Bierman Wessel. On September 6, 1951, Donald was united in marriage to Lucretia Mary Palazzolo in Piggott, Arkansas. Mr. Wessel was a veteran of the United States Navy and and served from 1948-1954. He had been employed at Sheller Globe in Keokuk, for 16 years and then at Seiman's Plastics Corp in Centralia, IL for 5 years, retiring in 1988. Don was an active member of the American Legion Post #41 and VFW Post #3508 in Keokuk and faithfully served with the Honor Guard, and had provided military rites for many tri-state area veterans. He was very community minded and had volunteered in many fundraising activities. He was always willing to give up his holiday time to volunteer for special events during Thanksgiving and Christmas. He liked to go fishing and enjoyed patronizing the many restaurants in Keokuk. Donald C. Wessel died Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at the Keokuk Area Hospital at the age of 74. He is survived by four children, Barbara Zarda and her husband Michael of Blue Springs, MO, Mark Wessel and his wife Julie of Keokuk, IA, David Wessel and his wife Cynthia of Carthage, IL and Teresa Wessel and her companion Suma Shaazmunda of Roseburg, Oregon, nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a very special friend, Marjorie Sherrill of Keokuk, IA. He was preceded him in death by his wife, Lucretia, on November 6, 1987, his parents and one sister, Darlene Hayes. Funeral services were held at 10 A.M., Tuesday, June 1 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Craig Burton officiating. Burial with military rites was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A memorial was established for the American Legion Post #41.

John Welsh
1951 - 2004
City of Birth: Keokuk, Iowa
City of Death: Donnellson, Iowa
John 'Mike' Michael Welsh was born on April 3, 1951 in Keokuk, IA the son of Donald J. 'Duke' and Virginia Immegart Welsh. On February 11, 1977 Mike was united in marriage to Nancy Dunlap. Mike graduated from Keokuk Senior High School with the Class of 1969. He had been employed at Roquette of America for the last 30 years and was a member of the American Federation of Grain Millers Union. Mike was a member of the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk, IA. He enjoyed camping, fishing, gardening, riding his Harley motorcycle and watching the old westerns on television. He was also an avid Nascar fan. John 'Mike' Michael Welsh died Monday, July 12, 2004 at his home in Donnellson at the age of 53. He is survived by his wife, Nancy of Donnellson, IA, one son, Shawn Hopper of Dallas City, IL, a foster sister, Janet Hausch and her husband Ernie of Montrose, IA, a cousin, Nancy Allison and her husband Harry of Sugarland, TX, three brothers-in-law, Bob Dunlap and his wife, Carolyn of Kahoka, MO, Doug Dunlap and his wife Joyce of Keokuk, Dave Dunlap and his wife Diana of Keokuk, IA three sisters-in-law, Karen Parrack of Alexandria, MO, Debbie Kisor and her husband Jim of Keokuk, Diana Coovert and her husband Mark of Keokuk, numerous family members from the Quad City area and numerous friends in the Tri-State area. His parents preceded him in death. A memorial service was held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 14 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Brother Bill Hauser officiating.

Roland Worrell
1920 - 2004
City of Birth: Mt. Sterling, Iowa
City of Death: Iowa City, Iowa
Roland Worrell, 84, of Kahoka, MO died Friday July 16, 2004 at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. He was born January 22, 1920, in Mt. Sterling, IA, a son of Thomas and Ruth Mitchell Worrell. He was united in marriage to Mavis Jean Yates on June 5, 1943, in Memphis, MO. She preceded him in death on March 1, 1994. Roland was a graduate of the Revere High School. He was a member of the Kahoka United Methodist Church. He and his wife had farmed in Clark County until their retirement in 1985 when they moved to Kahoka. They enjoyed playing cards with the neighbors and square dancing. Roland enjoyed fishing, looking for mushrooms, watching the St. Louis Cardinals games and visiting with his many friends. He treasured the time he spent with his family. His children and grandchildren grew up knowing they could always get a card game going with him. The love and wonderful memories he has created with his family will never be forgotten. Survivors include one daughter, Peggy Strahlman and her husband Wayne of Yarmouth, IA, two sons, Tom Worrell and his companion Lynn Krenmeyer and Keith Worrell and his wife Teresa, all of Kahoka, one sister, Helen Martin, one brother, Don Worrell and his wife Fern, all of Kahoka, one sister-in-law, Margaret Elliott of Kahoka, MO, eight grandchildren, Lisa Sterner and her husband Mark, Linda Blair and her husband Dan, Brandon Worrell and his wife Amy, Kindra Bergman and her husband Randy, Bronson Worrell and his wife Trisha, Linzi Worrell, Cody Worrell and his wife Carrie and Brian Worrell, eight great grandchildren, Amanda and Tabetha Sterner, Taylor, Vanessa and Paige Worrell, Alexander Worrell and Jenna and Madison Bergman. He was also preceded in death by his parents, one son, Kenneth Worrell and one grandson, Eric Strahlman. Funeral services were held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, July 19, 2004 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO with Reverend Dan Deatrick officiating. Burial was in the Kahoka Cemetery. Visitation was held after 11:00 A.M. Sunday with the family meeting with friends from 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorials were made to the Clark County Ambulance Service.

Lucille Watson
1928 - 2004
City of Birth: Alexandria, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Born on July 12, 1928 in Alexandria, MO, Lucille was the daughter of William and Myrtle Stevenson Varner. On June 11, 1946, Lucille was united in marriage to Gerald Keith Watson. She had been employed at Paetz Super Value, Dixie Cream Donuts and Like's Jewelry, all in Keokuk, IA. She retired in 1987. She was a member of the Evangelical Free Church in Keokuk and faithfully attended services every week. Lucille was always ready to share her faith and had been a Sunday School teacher for over 40 years. She was involved in many church activities and hosted a Friday Night Women's Bible Study in her home. Lucille had a large collection of dolls and enjoyed receiving dolls as gifts to add to her collection. She loved being with her family. She was a loving grandmother and treasured the times she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lucille M. Watson died Wednesday, October 27, 2004 at her home in Keokuk, IA at the age of 76. She is survived by one daughter, Debbie Suter and her husband Russell of Keokuk, IA, one son, Stanley Watson and his special friend Claudia of Keokuk, IA, two granddaughters, MacKenzie Watson, Lora Washburn and her children, Whitney and Bethany, two grandsons, Cody Watson, Keith Watson & his fiance' Stacey and their children, Kendra and Ashten, three brothers, Jack Varner and his wife Alice of California, John Varner and his wife Marge of Keokuk, IA and Richard Varner of Keokuk, IA, two sisters, Helen Thorne of Keokuk, IA, and Norma Varner and her special friend Charlie Collins, one aunt, Marge Pezley, many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends including Winnie Alberts, whom she considered a daughter. She was preceded in death by her husband Gerald on March 11, 1989, her parents, two sisters, Marie Varner and Cora Varner and one brother, Pete Varner. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 1, at the Evangelical Free Church in Keokuk with Pastor Craig Burton officiating. Burial was in the Keokuk National Cemetery. A Memorial was established for the Evangelical Free Church Missionary Fund. Thelma Young
1904 - 2003
City of Birth: Clark County, Missouri
City of Death: Quincy, Illinois
Thelma Young, 98, of Kahoka, MO died Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at the Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. She was born November 20, 1904 in Clark County, MO, the daughter of Larry and Agnes Hines Hayden. She married Erbie Young on February 25, 1925, in Kahoka, MO. He preceded her in death on July 10, 1990. Thelma had lived in Clark County most of her life. After their marriage, Thelma and Erbie had lived and farmed east of Kahoka and continued to live there after retirement in 1964, until 1990. She was a member of the Kahoka Christian Church. She was the service chairman for the church and planned and cooked many meals for the Kiwanis's to help pay for Sunday School Classes at the old Christian Church. She was also a member of the Sugar Creek Club and Royal Neighbors of America. Thelma was famous for her hot rolls. She enjoyed cooking for her family, working in her garden and her flower garden. She treasured the time she spent with her family. Survivors include one daughter, Joy Robertson and her husband Jim of Wyaconda, MO, four grandsons, Bill Robertson and his wife Kathy of Wyaconda, MO, Jim Robertson and his wife Debbie of Columbia, MO, David Robertson of Gorin, MO and Dennis Robertson and his wife MaryAnn of Memphis, MO, seven great grandchildren, Charlotte Robertson, Kate and her husband Jeff Cline, Jamie, Cody, Pamela & Michael Robertson and Aaron Cline, one great great grandchild, Nova Cline, three sisters, Ada Campbell of Kahoka, MO, Annie Schreck of Wayland, MO, Bessie Schreck of Wayland, MO, 1 brother-in-law, Eugene Elbe of Keokuk, IA and several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Maggie Clark and four brothers, Franklin, Wes, Bernard, and Bob Hayden. Funeral services were held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 18, 2003 at the Kahoka Christian Church in Kahoka, MO with Reverend Don Moseley and Reverend Dick Clifford officiating. Burial was in the Kahoka Cemetery, Kahoka, MO. Visitation was held after 1:00 PM Friday with the family meeting with friends from 6-8 P.M. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO. Memorials were made to the Kahoka Christian Church or the Residential Care Facility.

Ernest Young
1913 - 2004
City of Birth: Kahoka, Missouri
City of Death: Keokuk, Iowa
Ernest Eugene Young, 91, of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at his home. He was born February 8, 1913 in Kahoka, MO, a son of John Edward and Anna Marie Deerman Young. He married Minnie Irene Ritenhouse in 1936 in Kahoka, MO. She died on January 30, 1987. Ernest had been a resident of Kahoka for 25 years before moving to Keokuk, IA. He was of the Baptist Faith. He worked in defense during the war. He was employed as an auto worker by Mrs. Bridgenman for 25 years until his retirement. He enjoyed collecting antiques. He is survived by two daughters, Helen 'Joan' Huston and Loretta Irene Sanders, both of Keokuk, IA, one brother, Chester Young of Minnesota, six grandchildren, Jason and Willie Lorentzen, both of Keokuk, IA, Robert Cloyd Eugene Page and Patricia Irene Hymes, both of Keokuk, IA, Vincent Dana Sanders of Urbandale, IA and Lorna Renee Blackford of Monmouth, IL and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Esther Lorentzen, his companion of 35 years and fourteen brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, May 24, 2004 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Burial was in the Kahoka Cemetery. Visitation was held after 1:00 P.M. Sunday with the family meeting with friends from 7-9 P.M. at the funeral home. Pallbearers were Jason and Willie Lorentzen, Larry Young and Mike Hymes. Honorary pallbearers were Sonny Snively, Ruby "Dodie" Simmons and Gregory Hymes. Organist was Joan Ball. Soloist was Janet Ramsey. Selections were "Jesus Loves Me" and "What A Friends We Have In Jesus". The Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka, MO was in charge of arrangements.