Dora E. Petru
Dora E. Petru, 101, of Lone Tree died Sunday, Dec. 9, 2001 at the Lone Tree Health Care Center, Lone Tree, following an extended illness. Funeral services for Dora were 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001 at the Sorden-Lewis Funeral Home, Lone Tree. The Rev. Ann Rouse officiated. Burial was in the Lone Tree Cemetery. Visitation was Tuesday prior to the service. A memorial fund has been established at the funeral home. Dora was born March 11, 1900 in Becker, MN the daughter of John and Rosabelle (Fountain) Leverton. Dora graduated from Becker High School and then attended Business College in MN. On Sept. 22, 1922, Dora was united in marriage to George Petru in Becker, MN. She worked for the Muscatine Co. Recorder's Office, Muscatine. Dora was a long time member of the United Presbyterian Church of Lone Tree, the American Legion Auxiliary, a Rebekah's; Women's Relief Corp., City Farmerettes and several other social clubs. Dora especially liked to play cards. Dora will be deeply missed by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George in 1955; two brothers, Richard and Clifford and five sisters, Rosabelle, Elsie, Olive, Martha and Violet.

Darwin C. Ness
Darwin C. Ness, 70, Iowa City, died Wednesday evening, Dec. 5, 2001, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics following a sudden illness. Services were held Saturday, Dec. 8, at Zion Lutheran Church, Iowa City, with the Reverend Tim Malek, officiating. Memorials may be made to the Visiting Nurses Association or Zion Lutheran Church. Ness was born Nov. 8, 1931, in Marshalltown, the son of Gerhardt and Leona (Arney) Ness. He grew up and was educated there, graduating from Marshalltown High School. He moved to Iowa City in 1953 and worked for Wickel Typewriter. In 1968 he established Iowa City Typewriter, retiring from the business in 1998. He especially enjoyed skiing, bowling, tennis and helping others. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and the Iowa Mountaineers. Ness is survived by his wife, Mary, Iowa City; three sons: Dave Ness and his wife, Barb, Iowa City; Warren Ness, Iowa City; and Joseph Ness and his wife Diane, San Antonio, TX; his daughter, Christina Ashton and her husband, Clark, Salt Lake City, Utah; six grandchildren: Jacob, Anna, Peter, and Julie Ness; and Katie and Nicki Ashton; two sisters: Beulah Elliot, Lino-Lake, MN, and Sharon Arment and her husband, Marion, Marshalltown; and one brother, Ronald Ness and his wife, Ellie, Port Charlotte, FL. He was preceded in death by ten brothers and sisters.

Johnnie C. Brandt
Johnnie C. Brandt, age 86, of Durant, died on Tuesday, Dec. 4, at Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty. Johnnie C. Brandt was born on February 11, 1915, to Gustaf and Minnie (Schnoor) Brandt in Cedar,IA. He was a carpenter in Durant for many years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Services were held on Friday, Dec. 7, at Bentley Funeral Home, Durant. The officiant was Reverend David Larson. Musical selections were provided by organist Kathy Luethye and vocalist: Henry Bentley. Serving as Casket Bearers were Robert Cochran, Dale Schlueter, Tom Compton, Ben Beitel, Harlan Schult, and Ike Daufeldt. Survivors include three sisters: Norma Ramm, West Liberty; Ella Schlueter, Durant; and Arlean Schult, Durant; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Gustaf Brandt, his mother, Minnie Brandt, and one sister, Mabel Martens. Memorials may go to the Durant Community Center.

Carl Ehrich
Carl E. Ehrich, 83, of Blackwood, NJ, died Thursday, Nov. 8, 2001, following a short illness. Funeral services were held on Nov. 14. The Earle Funeral Home, Blackwood, NJ was in charge of arrangements. Burial was at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Pitman, NJ. Carl was born on April 29, 1918, in Cedar County, IA, the son of Edward E. Ehrich and Lillie Marie Wiese Ehrich. He was a 1937 graduate of West Liberty High School. In 1938, he enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the light cruiser the USS San Francisco. In 1939, the cruiser was in a fleet of U.S. ships making a good will tour around South America. On Dec. 7, 1941, the USS San Francisco was among several ships bombed in Pearl Harbor. He was not injured and spent the next four years in the South Pacific Campaign, returning home in the fall of 1945. In 1947, he was united in marriage to Ruth Phillips of Philadelphia, PA. They enjoyed returning to Iowa for reunions of the Class of 1937, most recently in 1997. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, of Blackwood, NJ: daughters Sue (Charles) Borman of Boynton Beach, FL; and Jean (Bob) Ivins, Mantua, NJ; granddaughters Amy Ivins of Mantua, NJ; and Kati (Shawn) Fitzpatrick of Sewell, NJ; and a great-granddaughter. Also surviving are two sisters, Esther Rexroth of Oak Park, IL and Elsie Rowe, Davenport; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Vera Timm Albrand, and Verda Rexroth. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Alice Taylor
Alice Taylor, 96, formerly of West Branch, died Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2002, at Brown County Health and Living in Nashville, Indiana, following an extended illness. Graveside services were held Saturday, Nov. 2, at the West Branch Cemeterywith Rev. Scot Patrick officiating. The Barker Funeral Home in West Branch was in charge of arrangements. She was born May 14, 1906, in Iowa City, the daughter of Wilton and Alice Schell West. She was a graduate of University High School in Iowa City and was employed at the University of Iowa for two years. She was married to Ellis Taylor Sept. 8, 1928, in Iowa City. She was a member of the West Branch United Methodist Church and served as an officer in the United Methodist Women's organization. She is survived by a son Robert (Sandra) Taylor of Bloomington, Indiana, and a foster son Glen (Esther) Frisbee of Springville, Iowa. Seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ellis, three sisters and a son Richard.

Martha Gafeller
Martha D. Gafeller, age 59, of West Liberty, died Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2002, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics following a lengthy illness. Funeral services were held Saturday, Nov. 2, at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City with the Reverend Ron Lashmit officiating. Burial was at St. Joseph Cemeteryin Iowa City. A memorial fund has been established in Martha's name. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service of Iowa City was in charge of arrangements. Martha was born Feb. 10, 1943, in Chester, South Carolina, the daughter of George R. and Matt (Morgan) Lathan. She married John F. Gafeller, Nov. 11, 1963, in Great Falls, South Carolina. She and her family have lived in a number of places since her husband, John served in the United States Army for over 20 years. They moved to the West Liberty area nearly 20 years ago. Her family includes her husband, John; sons: John H. Gafeller and Lee Ann Eggers of Hills, Robert F. and Jennifer Gafeller of Iowa City; daughter and her husband, Dorma J. and Dirk Gunnells of Iowa City; grandchildren, Lindsey Gunnells and Jonathan Gafeller; brothers, Olan and his wife, Odell Lathan of Great Falls, SC, Pete and his wife, Laura Lathan of Great Falls, SC; sisters, Frances Ramey of Chester, SC, Willie Burchert of Great Falls, SC, and Nina Ingrahm of York SC. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Ed Lathan, and granddaughter, Cora Elizabeth Gafeller.

Helena O'Conner
Helena O'Conner, 74, of Riverside, died Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2002, at her home in Riverside. Mass of the Resurrection for Helena was Saturday, Nov. 2, at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Riverside. Father Rich Adam officiated. Burial was in the Mt. Olivet Cemeteryin Riverside. Casketbearers were Jim McNamara, Joe McNamara, Don McNamara, Mike Duwa, Tom Duwa, Jim Laures, Bill Laures, Carey O'Connor and Matt Hernandez. Memorials may be directed to the Riverside First Responders or Washington County Hospice in memory of Helena. Helena was born June 19, 1928, in Holbrook, the daughter of James and Mary Reynolds Cooney. Helena was a 1947 graduate of St. Mary's Catholic School in Riverside and then attended Teacher's College in Mount St. Clare in Clinton. She was united in marriage to Leroy O'Conner on Aug. 10, 1949, at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Riverside. Helena taught at Old Kentucky School in rural Riverside. She was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Riverside, the S & C card club and the Washington County Health Advisory Board. Helena enjoyed gardening, photography, cooking, bird watching, playing cards and dancing, but most of all, Helena dearly loved to spend time with her family and friends. Surviving to honor her memory are her husband; Leroy O'Conner of Riverside, four sons, Patrick O'Conner and his wife, Chery of Independence, Iowa, Michael O'Conner of Cedar Falls, John O'Conner and his wife, Stephanie of Riverside and Timothy O'Conner and significant other Laura Wroblewski of Coralville; two daughters, Susan O'Conner-Von and her husband, Ron of St. Paul, MN and Sara O'Conner of Riverside, seven grandchildren, Candice, Kristin and Ashley of Independence, Addison, Evan and Clint of Riverside and Caitlyn of Cedar Falls. Preceding her in death are her parents, two brothers, Edward and Mervin and three sisters, Madeline, Katherine and Theresa.

Curtis James
Curtis R. James, 90, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2002, at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, following an extended illness. Funeral services were held Monday, Dec. 2, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty, with Rev. Al Zimmerman officiating. A Masonic service was held. Burial was in the Oak Ridge Cemetery, West Liberty. A memorial fund has been established. Curtis Ripley James was born Apr. 2, 1912, the son of Curtis W. and Nettie Ripley James. He attended Nichols Schools and graduated from West Liberty High School in 1930. He received his bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Iowa and later attended the Illinois Institute of Tech in Chicago. He was married to Lillian Nelson in Chicago in 1938. He had been employed with Bauer and Black Medical Supply and later for Corn Product Refining Co. testing lab in Argo, IL. He was a lieutenant in the Navy during WWII. He was in charge of orders aboard an APA boat. He landed in Okinawa and was in the Bay of Japan when the Peace Treaty was signed. He established the James Laboratory in the Rio Grande Valley. He moved to Monterey, CA, due to the hot Texas summers and worked with the Horden Canning Co., where he was involved with research for fish cholesterol. In 1949, he bought his family farm from his uncle. He was a member of the rural fire department, rural telephone board and the county extension board. For 16 years, he helped set and run the election machines in Muscatine County. He is survived by his wife, Lillian James of West Liberty; a son, Floyd (Marilyn) James of Cedar Falls; a daughter, Elaine (Howard) James Norman of Freeport, IL; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Gad and Marion; and three sisters, Harriett, Evelyn and Jeanette.

Gerald Sanders
Gerald Lee Sanders, 65, of Broken Arrow, died Tuesday, Nov. 19, at his home. Funeral services were at Wright Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Conrad Barrett of Porter officiating. Mr. Sanders was born Apr. 25, 1937, to Samuel L. and Ettwoyle McConkey Sanders. He received his elementary education in Hammond, IN, Chicago, IL, and Lone Tree. He graduated from Lone Tree High School in 1955. He enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces on Oct. 3, 1955, and was honorably discharged in July 1958. On Jan. 12, 1991, he and Verlene Daulton were married in Broken Arrow. He was previously married to Leita Attig on June 6, 1957, in Lone Tree. Mr. Sanders worked as an executive tax recruiter for 12 years. He also owned and operated Cook Music Shop in Muscatine for over 15 years. Survivors include his wife, Verlene Sanders, of Broken Arrow; a son, Gregory Sanders and his wife, Laurie, of New Jersey; a stepson, Mike Daulton of Broken Arrow; a daughter, Kim Danz and her husband, Larry, of Broken Arrow; a stepdaughter, Lisa Pitts of Coweta; his mother, Ettwoyle Sanders of West Liberty; a sister, Charlotte Crawford of North Liberty; nine grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father.

B. Margarite Collison
B. Margarite Collison, 92, of the Cedar Falls Lutheran Home, formerly of Tipton, died Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Lutheran Home of natural causes. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty with Rev. Richard Smith officiating. Burial was in Tipton Masonic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Cedar Falls Lutheran Home or the Tipton Library. Margarite was born Jan. 22, 1910, in Cedar County, the daughter of Stanford and Grace Ferguson Gregory. She was a graduate of West Liberty High School in 1927. She married Foster Ray Collison in Rock Island, IL, on Nov. 30, 1932. They farmed in the West Liberty area for several years before moving to Tipton in 1949. Margarite "Rite" was a homemaker with a special gift for cooking and baking. She was also an avid reader. She is survived by one son, Kenneth Ray (Michele) Collison of Denver, Iowa; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Albert Gregory of West Branch, and Robert (Yvonne) Gregory of Tipton; one sister, Shirley (George) Schultz of Fairfield; a daughter-in-law, Joyce Phillips, of Muscatine; and a host of nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one son, Ronald; one brother, Stanley; two sisters, Edith Walters and Mary Hadley; a half-brother, Lester; and a half-sister, Edna Gregory.

Robert Hamer
Robert E. Hamer, 70, of 66 326th Street in West Branch, died Monday, Nov. 25, 2002, at home from an apparent heart attack. Funeral Mass was held Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Bernadette's Catholic Church in West Branch with Rev. Joseph O'Melia officiating. Friends called Friday from 4-7:30 p.m. at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service in Iowa City. Burial was in St. Vincent's Cemeteryin Riverside. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Robert Hamer Memorial Fund. Mr. Hamer was born July 8, 1932, in West Liberty, the son of Charles and Effie Krotz Hamer. He attended Iowa City High School and on March 29, 1951, married Patricia A. Shebek at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Iowa City. Bob worked at the University of Iowa Hydraulics Lab for 32 years, retiring in 1994. He enjoyed being a carpenter and mechanical craftsman. He held a passion for classic cars and gardening. Bob first and foremost always placed his family first. He is survived by his wife, Pat, of West Branch; seven sons, Stephen R. Hamer and his wife, Karen, of West Branch, Thomas E. Hamer and his wife, Colleen, of West Liberty, Terry L. Hamer and his wife, Charlene, of West Branch, Timothy C. Hamer and his wife, Tammi, of West Branch, Robert A. Hamer and his wife, Barb, of Tipton, Dean F. Hamer and his wife, Denise, of West Branch, and James W. Hamer and his wife, Jessica, of North Liberty; two daughters, Debra A. Mills and her husband, Virgil, and Barbara J. Paul and her husband, Mike, all of West Branch; 22 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one brother, Howard Hamer of Payson, Ariz.; one sister, Lucille Calkins of Iowa City; and numerous nieces and nephews Mr. Hamer was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Dorothy Stoneburner; and five brothers, Clarence, Ralph, Leo, Fred and Irvin.

Howard Krueger
Howard E. Krueger, 88, of Iowa City, died Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2002, at the Mercy Hospital in Iowa City following extended illness. Funeral services for Howard were Saturday, Nov. 30, at the United Presbyterian Church in Lone Tree. The Rev. Ann Rouse officiated. Burial was in the Lone Tree Cemetery. Casketbearers were Ronnie Woitte, Delbert Lenz, Daryl Lenz, Dale Lenz, Dave Luedtke and Clifford Smith. Honorary casketbearers were Raymond Swanson, Gaylord Owens and Ferd Green. A memorial fund has been established for the United Presbyterian Church and Iowa City Hospice in memory of Howard. Howard Ernest Krueger was born Feb. 12, 1914, in rural Lone Tree, the son of Frank J.E. and Stella (Owens) Krueger. Howard was united in marriage to Lena Leota Spivey on Feb. 16, 1938, in rural Lone Tree. Howard was a farmer in the Lone Tree area his entire life. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church, a member of the Iowa City Rebekah Lodge No. 416 since 1938, and a member of the Oddfellows since 1935. Howard enjoyed traveling in his younger years with his wife, Lena. Howard will be deeply missed by his two daughters, Shirley M. Louck and her husband, Robert, of Bettendorf and Joyce H. Snider and special friend, Barry Matthess, of Lone Tree; one daughter-in-law, Donna Ybarra of Kent, WA; six grandchildren, Sharon, Heather, Tara, Regan, Eric and Jacob; five great-grandchildren, Dakota, Logan, Riley, Brandon and Aireal; and one sister, Lucile Schaapveld of Lone Tree. Howard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lena; one son, Donald; one grandson, John; one sister, Dorothy Lenz; and two brothers-in-law, Eugene Schaapveld and Authur Lenz.

Mae R. Dean
Mae R. Dean, 83, of Nichols, died Friday, April 25, 2003, at her home. Funeral services were Tuesday, April 29, at the Geo. M. Wittich-Lewis Funeral Home in Muscatine. Reverend Dan Rohr officiated. Casketbearers were Steve Harlan, Danny Rohr, Scott Rohr, Ronald Rohr, Zachary Rohr, Zeberia Rohr and Zeke Rohr. Burial was at Muscatine Memorial Park Cemetery. A memorial fund was established at the funeral home. Mae was born July 20, 1919, in West Liberty, the daughter of Henry H. and Minnie Johnson Holst. She married Claud Dean on March 6, 1954, in Wapello. She was a homemaker and loved to read books. She is survived by her daughter, Emma Rohr and her husband, Ronald, of Nichols; a brother, Edwin E. Holst of West Liberty; two sisters, Dorothy J. Joslin and her husband, Les, of Shelten, Washington, and Mary H. Sims and her husband, Richard, of Florida; three grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Lloyd, Leonard and Everett; four sisters, Alma Rieland, Norma Sorenson, Erma Allar and Gladys Stahelin; and one infant son.

Lealon F. Grace
Lealon F. Grace, 84, of West Branch, formerly of What Cheer, died Thursday, April 24, 2003, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, following an extended illness. Memorial services were held Sunday at the Harden Funeral Chapel, What Cheer. Graveside services with military rites were held Monday, April 28, at the Springdale Cemetery, rural West Branch. Memorials may be made to What Cheer Rescue Unit, Mike Armstrong, What Cheer, IA 50268. The Barker Funeral Home in West Branch is in charge of arrangements. He was born November 17, 1918, near Delta in Keokuk County, the son of Elam and Minnie Dell Waddell Grace. He was a graduate of What Cheer High School in 1937. He was a veteran of World War II, serving with the U.S. Air Corps. He was a 57-year member of the American Legion. Lealon was a self-employed farmer and carpenter. He also worked for several years at Amana Refrigeration. He had lived in What Cheer most of his life, moving to the West Branch area in 1999 due to declining health. He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Arlene Grace of West Branch, Marie Grace of York, Pennsylvania, Audrey Grace Richardson of Burlington, Massachusetts, and Leola Grace of Spokane, Washington; 10 nieces and nephews; and several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Ray, Ivan, Gerald and Edmond.

Kelly Marie Johnson
Kelly Marie Johnson, 53, died Sunday, April 20, 2003, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, following a short illness. Private family services will be held at a later time. The body has been cremated. The Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty is in charge of arrangements. She was born March 17, 1950, in Cherokee, the daughter of Harold M. and Francis Shove Johnson. She had been employed as the manager of Third Base Lounge in Cedar Rapids. She is survived by two brothers, Peter Johnson of Center Point and Victor Johnson; and a sister, Sara Olson of Portland, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Michael (Mike) Marshall
Michael (Mike) Marshall, 49, of Davenport, died Tuesday, May 27, 2003, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, following a short illness. Funeral services were held Friday, May 30, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty with Reverend Michael Stadie officiating. Burial was in the Oak Ridge Cemetery, West Liberty. Memorials may be made to the Kidney Foundation. Mike was born May 30, 1954, in Muscatine, the son of James and Geneva McKillip Marshall. He was a graduate of West Liberty High School in 1973. He was married to Juanita Clark from 1981 until 1991. He had been employed with the Whiteway Restaurant in Durant and Crystal Café in West Liberty for several years. Most recently, he was employed with City Carton in Iowa City and Davenport. He was a member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Davenport. He is survived by a daughter, Erika Marshall, of Lakewood, Washington; sister, Christine (Terry) Kruse of West Liberty; brother, Steve (Kathy) Marshall of West Liberty; and several nieces and nephews. His parents preceded him in death.

Wayne E. Millage Sr.
Wayne E. Millage Sr., 88, died Sunday, May 18, 2003, at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, following an extended illness. The body has been cremated and family graveside services were held in the Nevisdale, Kentucky, cemetery. The Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty was in charge of arrangements. He was born January 13, 1915, the son of Riley and Selena Cooley Millage. He had been employed with Case for a number of years. He is survived by one son, Wayne (Martha) Millage Jr., of West Liberty; two grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Gladys M. Bach
Gladys M. Bach, 92, formerly of Cedar Rapids, died Friday, May 30, 2003, at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, following a short illness. Funeral services were Monday, June 2, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty. Burial was in the Cedar Memorial Cemeteryin Cedar Rapids. A memorial fund has been established. She was born December 13, 1910, near West Liberty, the daughter of Glen and Alma Pinney Walker. She was a graduate of West Liberty High School in 1929 and attended Cedar Rapids Business College. She was united in marriage to John D. Bach in Cedar Rapids. The couple had lived in Cedar Rapids for many years. Following the death of her husband in 1993, she moved to West Liberty. She had been employed with Prudential Insurance in Cedar Rapids for 30 years, retiring in 1972. She was a member of the West Liberty United Methodist Church. Survivors include a stepdaughter, Rosalie (Bill) Bishop of Indianapolis, Indiana; two brothers, Kenneth Walker of West Liberty and Glen G. Walker of Honolulu, Hawaii; three sisters, Lois Kirby, Phyllis Beach and Audrey VeDepo, all of West Liberty; two step-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; and four brothers, Jim, Lyle, Lloyd and Wayne.

Ruth M. Grimm
Ruth M. Grimm, 58, of Atalissa, died at her home on Friday, May 30, 2003, following a lengthy illness. Services were Tuesday, June 3, at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City. Reverend Anna Bradshaw officiated. Burial was at Memory Gardens. A memorial fund was established for Iowa City Hospice or the Iowa City Pilots Club. Mrs. Grimm was born June 15, 1944, in Washington, the daughter of Cloyce and Lucille Mineart Godwin. She attended Pleasant Plain Elementary School and graduated from Iowa City High School in 1962. She attended the University of Iowa. She married Donald Grimm in Iowa City on March 19, 1965. She had been employed by Wayner's Jewelry and First National Bank in the trust department. After that, she and her husband owned and operated Grimm's Orthopedics from 1969 until September 2002. In 1993, they moved to their summer home on the river near Atalissa. Ruth had been active in the PTA at Lincoln Elementary and had served as the parent representative to the Iowa City School Board. She was a Campfire Girls co-leader. She had served as the commissioner for the division for girls under 19 of the Iowa City Soccer Club for several years. She was a member of the Iowa City Pilots Club and served as president in 1994-95. She was an avid gardener and collected antique dolls and Wedgewood. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. Ruth is survived by her husband, Don, of Atalissa; a son, Kevin Grimm and his wife, Shiela, and their children, Keeley, Berkley and Lainey, of North Liberty; a daughter, Kimberly Dickey, and her children, Jacob and Tatum, of Swisher; a brother, James Godwin, and his wife, Joan, of Iowa City; and two brothers-in-law, David Grimm and his wife, Marilynn, of Canon, Colorado, and Gerald Grimm of Indianola. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Frances E. Evans
Frances E. Evans, 87, formerly of Eddyville, died Sunday, October 5, 2003, at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, following an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 9, at the Eddyville Funeral Chapel in Eddyville. Memorials may be made to the Eddyville Rescue Unit. The Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty is in charge of local arrangements. She was born February 2, 1916, in Pella, the daughter of Jesse and Catherine Van Rees Barber. She was a graduate of Eddyville Schools and taught rural schools for six years prior to her marriage. On May 19, 1940, she was married to John D. Evans in Eddyville, where they lived all their lives. In 1953, she returned to teaching for a total of 34 years in the Eddyville School District, retiring in 1980. She had received a bachelor's degree from William Penn College and master's from the University of Iowa. She later did graduate work at Drake University. She was active in civic and church organizations. She was a member of the First Christian Church, American Association of University Women, Garden Club, Woman's Club, and Wapello County Retired Teachers. She served as co-leader of an Eddyville Girl Scout troop and was a charter member of the past TTT Society. She is survived by her daughter, JoAnne (Joe) Akers of West Liberty; three grandchildren, Bret (Sarah) Akers of West Liberty, Brad (Mindy) Akers of West Liberty and Elizabeth Evans of Pensacola, Florida; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Adrianna Mroherk of California. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John, in 1991; son, Roger P.; and six brothers and sisters.

Alvin C. "Ike" Daufeldt
Alvin C. "Ike" Daufeldt, 78, of Durant, died on Sunday, September 21, 2003, at his home in Durant. Services were held on Friday, September 26, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Durant. Pastor Nancy Hoelter officiated. Inurnment was at Melpine Cemetery, Muscatine County. A memorial fund was established. Bentley Funeral Home of Durant was in charge of arrangements. Alvin C. Daufeldt was born on December 11, 1924, to Martin and Emma (Freese) Daufeldt in Cedar County. He married Lucy McClean on July 6, 1949, in Lucy's parents' home in Muscatine County. Ike worked for Pioneer, retiring in 1986. He had managed the Durant Community Center for many years. He was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Durant and the Wilton Masonic Lodge. He loved his family, music, playing guitar and dancing. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Daufeldt, of Durant; two daughters, Shirley Wright of Atlanta, Georgia, and Bonnie Daufeldt and her fiance, Dave Davies, of Wilton; three sons, Tom Daufeldt and his wife, Coni, of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Tim Daufeldt and his wife, Cindi, of West Liberty, and Andy Daufeldt and his wife, Stacy, of Blue Grass; three sisters, Eva Alpen of Durant, Dorothy Hermann of Muscatine, and Louise Schmelzer of Durant; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Daufeldt; his father, Martin Daufeldt; two sisters, Grace Harmsen and Cathryn Wiese; and one brother, Harvey Daufeldt.

Roscoe J. "Ross" Sexton
Roscoe J. "Ross" Sexton, 79, died Monday, October 6, 2003, at his home, following an extended illness. Funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 9, at St. Bernadette's Catholic Church in West Branch, with Reverend Dennis Martin officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Cedar Valley. The Barker Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. A memorial fund has been established. He was born October 6, 1924, in Knoxville, Tennessee, the son of Harry T. and Agnes E. Jensen Sexton. His family moved to Iowa when Ross was very young. He attended rural schools and graduated from West Branch High School in 1942. On October 26, 1953, he was married to the former Rosemary E. Driscoll at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cedar Valley. He had owned and operated a portable feed grinder and worked on several farms for many years. Most recently, he was employed with the University of Iowa as an electrician from 1974 until his retirement in 1989. He was a member of St. Bernadette's Catholic Church and a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge. He loved sports, especially the West Branch Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs. He also enjoyed fishing, playing cards and spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary Sexton, of West Branch; two sons, Rick (Julie) Sexton and Randy (Katie) Sexton, all of West Branch; two grandchildren, Michael and Savannah; brothers, George (Althea) Sexton of California, Maynard (Jean) Sexton of West Branch, John (Dorothy) Sexton of Lone Tree, Lawrence (Marilyn) Sexton of West Branch, Bob Sexton of West Branch and Paul (Myrt) Sexton of West Branch; one sister, Laura Slach of West Branch; his mother-in-law, Agnes Stroppel of West Branch; aunt, Marion Klein of West Branch; and uncle, Thomas Sexton of Cedar Rapids.

Donald Franklin Wildasin
Donald Franklin Wildasin, 72, of Muscatine, died September 23, 2003, at his residence. Funeral services were Friday, September 26, at the Geo. M. Wittich-Lewis Funeral Home. Reverend Betsey Neipert officiated. Casketbearers were Joe Elder, Jeff Elder, Leland Elder, Ron Murdock, Bob Vance, Mike Vance, Gary Wildasin, Steve Doering and Henry Yahn. Honorary casketbearers were Toree Bartenhagen, Austin Bartenhagen, Trevor Hill and Noah Yahn. Burial was at Nichols Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Genesis Medical Center. Donald was born July 3, 1931, in Muscatine, the son of Charles and Ada (Tracy) Wildasin. He married Mary Knoll on February 20, 1954, in Nichols. Donald farmed for over 40 years. Besides farming, he worked for Bandag for several years, drove a school bus for the West Liberty School District and was a truck driver for Randy Murdock in Illinois. Donald also volunteered his time as a 4-H leader. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict. Donald enjoyed golfing and fishing, but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Mary; three sons, Tim Wildasin and his wife, Sherry, of Muscatine, Kevin Wildasin of West Liberty and Chris Wildasin and his fiancée, Nancy Maylone, of Nichols; one daughter, Diane Bartenhagen of Muscatine; one brother, Raymond Wildasin and his wife, Delores, of Davenport; one sister, Darlene Vance and her husband, Harvey, of Muscatine; three grandchildren, Melinda Wildasin, Toree Bartenhagen and Austin Bartenhagen; two step-grandchildren, Henry Yahn and Nancy Maylone; one great-grandchild, Trevor Hill; and one step-great-grandchild, Noah Yahn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ada, and one sister, Evelyn Doering.

Robert H. Darby
Robert H. Darby, 88, died September 15, 2003, at Oaknoll Retirement Residence in Iowa City following an extended illness. Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, at Oaknoll. The Barker Funeral Home in West Branch is in charge of arrangements. He was born September 28, 1914, in Fairchance, Pennsyl-vania, the son of John L. and Alice Miller Darby. He received his bachelor's and master's from the University of West Virginia. From 1940 to 1942, he taught at the University of Virginia. On June 17, 1947, he was married to Mayzee Regan of Iowa City. From 1942 until 1972, Robert did research, editing and writing for the National Security Agency in Washington, D.C. He lived in College Park, Maryland, for many years. Since retiring from his government position, he had pursued his lifelong interests in horticulture, and had developed and patented several varieties of hardy hibiscuses. In 1983, he and his wife, Mayzee, moved to Iowa City and Oaknoll. He was a member of the West Branch Friends Meeting, and several civic and horticultural organizations. There are no immediate survivors. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mayzee, in 2001; four brothers; and two sisters.

Timothy "Tim" D. Wolfe
Timothy "Tim" D. Wolfe, 49, of Iowa City, died Sunday, September 28, 2003, at his home, of an apparent heart attack. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, October 2, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Iowa City, with the Reverend James Vrba officiating. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemeteryin Iowa City. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City is in charge of arrangements. A memorial fund has been established. Timothy David Wolfe was born December 2, 1953, in Iowa City, the son of Robert E. and Etta M. (Moore) Wolfe. He attended West Branch Schools. On September 13, 1971, Tim married Roxann Sharpless in Iowa City. For 24 years, Tim owned and operated Iowa City Clean Up and Transfer. After retiring, he became a property developer in 1999. Tim loved his family and his animals, especially his "Landfill" or "Lany" for short, his dog that went everywhere with him. In addition, some of his many passions in life were NASCAR racing, singing and traveling with his family. He is survived by his wife, Roxann; daughters, Shawn Wolfe of North Liberty and her fiancé, Jesse Burns, Lisa Trewet and her husband, Mike, of Mason City, and Jamie Wolfe and her companion, Jim Maxwell, of Iowa City; grandchildren, Justin Burns and Timothy T. Trewet; his mother, Etta Brown, and her husband, LeRoy, of Taylor Ridge, Illinois; and siblings, Bill and his wife, Ginny Wolfe, of Des Moines, Pam and her husband, Ron Damewood, of Bettendorf, Cheryl Wolfe of Iowa City, Tina and her husband, Jim Sheppard, of Des Moines, and Nancy Petersen of Moline, Illinois. Tim was preceded in death by his father, Robert; and his in-laws, Duayne and Julia Sharpless.

Dennis R. Batty
Dennis R. Batty, 57, died Monday, December 15, 2003, at his home in West Liberty. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec-ember 18, at the West Liberty Community Center, 1204 North Calhoun Street, with Reverend Al Zimmerman officiating. A memorial fund has been established. The Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty is in charge of arrangements. Dennis was born July 29, 1946, in Charles City, the son of T. Edward and Frances Munshower Batty. He was a 1964 graduate from Rockford High School in Rockford, Iowa. He received is bachelor's degree, and later his master's of business administration degree, from Mankato State University. On August 24, 1968, he was united in marriage to Mari Hejlik in Rockwell. Mr. Batty had worked in Minneapolis as an internal auditor with International Multi Foods before beginning his career in banking. In 1973, he began in banking, working in Mason City, Union Whitten Savings Bank in Union, and Laporte City State Bank in Laporte City, before moving to West Liberty in 1983, where he served as president and CEO of the West Liberty State Bank for over 20 years. He was a veteran of the Vietnam conflict, serving with the U.S. Army, where he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Denny loved his grandchildren very much. He also enjoyed hunting, antiques, Corvettes and gardening. He was a member of the County Bankers Peer Group and Muscatine County Bankers Association. He is survived by his wife, Mari Batty, of West Liberty; one son, Jason (Amy) Batty of Johnston; two grandchildren, Skylar and Brooke; his mother, Frances Batty, of Charles City; brother, Jack Batty of Rockford; and a niece and nephew. He was preceded in death by his father.

Bertha E. Campbell
Bertha E. Campbell, 89, formerly of West Branch, died Friday, December 12, 2003, at the Lantern Park Care Center in Coralville following an extended illness. Funeral services were Wednesday, December 17, at the Springdale United Methodist Church, with Reverend Ruth Blayer officiating. Burial was in the West Branch Cemetery. Barker Funeral Home in West Branch was in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Springdale United Methodist Church or to the charity of choice. She was born to Louis and Dora Luettjohann Busch on June 18, 1914, in rural Cedar County. She graduated from Mechanicsville High School in 1932. She was united in marriage to Ralph Campbell. She worked in food service for the Springdale High School, the Scattergood School and the University of Iowa. Bertha dedicated her life to her church, her family and friends. She loved to bake, socialize and serve the church and community. For many years, Bertha taught Sunday school and served on many boards and committees, was in charge of ticket sales for the annual Yule Buffet, as well as being church treasurer of the Springdale United Methodist Church. She was a member of several boards and committees serving the senior age group. Among the awards received for her service were Outstanding Senior Citizen in Cedar County in 1992 and the Heritage Area Agency on Aging Outstanding Achievement in Care Review Award in 1996. She is survived by her daughter, Shirley Morrow, and son-in-law, Jim, of Marion; a granddaughter, Diane (Gary) Fickel of Iowa City; two great-granddaughters, Megan Fickel and Lindsey Fickel; a sister, Norma (Dean) Emerson of Janesville, Wisconsin; nieces, Darlene and Jan, who made their home with Ralph and Bertha for some time; and many other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph, in 1982; and a sister and brother-in-law, Alma and Walter Reitzel.

Helen E. Tatge
Helen E. Tatge, 93, formerly of Nichols, died Tuesday, December 9, 2003, at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, following an extended illness. A memorial service was held Friday, December 12, in the Melick Room at the Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty, with Reverend Betsey Neipert officiating. The Barker Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Helen was born February 4, 1910, in Nichols, to Ray and Nellie Norris. She was a graduate of Nichols High School and attended Iowa State University before graduating from the University of Iowa. She was united in marriage to John Tatge in March 1944. She had taught school in Nichols and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. She was a member of the Nichols United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women. Survivors include two stepdaughters, Lois (Jerry) Shelangouski of Milan, Illinois, and Ruth Hess of Silvis, Illinois; two stepsons, Donald Tatge of Milan, Illinois, and Ralph (Darlene) Tatge of Stronghurst, Illinois; 17 step-grandchildren; and 37 step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband.

Warren William Roth
Warren William Roth, 78, of Nichols, died Thursday, June 10, 2004, at his home. Services were Monday, June 14, at Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home in Muscatine. Burial was at Greenwood Cemetery. He was born December 10, 1925, in Muscatine, a son of John Herman and Freda Louise (Becker) Roth. After graduating from Muscatine High School in 1944, he went to work for Grain Processing in Muscatine. He enlisted in the Army in 1949 and was discharged as a corporal in December of 1951. He married Patricia Ann Barrett on May 16, 1952, in Muscatine. He began working for Proctor & Gamble in Iowa City in 1956 and worked there for more than 34 years, retiring in 1991. He had lived in Nichols since 1959 and served as the mayor of the town for 26 years, from 1960 through 1967, and again from 1970 through 1987. He also served on the Nichols Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of the Masons for more than 50 years. He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and also greatly enjoyed watching the University of Iowa basketball team. He also enjoyed camping and spending time at a winter home in Mission, Texas. He is survived by his wife, of Nichols; children, Ronald Roth of Muscatine, Gale (Don) Doxsie of Davenport, Christine (Steve) Poulsen of West Liberty, Michael (Tami) Roth of West Liberty, Susan (Dave) Nieman of Wilton and Timothy Roth of Nichols; grandchildren, Brooke Roth, Tera Roth, Carl Poulsen, Ryne Doxsie, Emily Doxsie, Dylan Nieman, Lauren Roth and Matt Roth; one great-grandchild, Bryson Hatfield; a sister, Margaret Glende of Chandler, Arizona; and a brother, George Roth of Muscatine. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Elizabeth Roth and Anita Davis.

James E. Kline
James E. Kline, 41, died Wednesday, June 9, 2004, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, following an extended illness. A private graveside service was held Monday, June 21, at Oak Ridge Cemeteryin West Liberty. The Barker Funeral Home of West Liberty was in charge of arrangements. A memorial has been established James was born August 3, 1962, in Iowa City, the son of Harold and Barbara Romaine Kline. He is survived by his parents, Harold and Barbara Kline of Atalissa; a brother, Ronald (Carol) Kline of West Liberty; two nephews, Garrett and Derek, of West Liberty; and his grandmothers, Louise Kline of West Liberty and Hazel Romaine of West Liberty. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Elmer Kline and Harold Romaine.

Blanche E. Bowman
Blanche E. Bowman, 84, died Friday, June 18, 2004, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, following an extended illness. Funeral services were Tuesday, June 22, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Branch. Burial was in Springdale Cemetery, rural West Branch. She was born February 2, 1920, in Tipton, the daughter of Lee and Elsie Mae Yetter Countryman. She was a graduate of Tipton High School in 1938. On December 31, 1939, she was united in marriage to Charles Herbert Bowman in Tipton. She is survived by three daughters, Judith (Robert) Baer of Bentonville, Arkansas, Mary Lou (Bruce) Brendel of West Branch and Patricia (Norm) Bickford of West Branch; two sons, Charles "Howe" (Janie) Bowman of Petal, Mississippi, and Chester "Herb" (Linda) Bowman of West Branch; 15 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and two brothers.

Angela Marie Espinosa
Angela Marie Espinosa, 28, of West Liberty, died Monday, October 4, 2004, at her home, with her family by her side. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 7, at 10:30 a.m. at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton. Burial will be at Tipton Masonic Cemetery.

Belita Kruse Calef
Belita Kruse Calef, 59, of West Liberty, formerly of Lone Tree, died Sunday, October 3, 2004, at her home, from complications of breast cancer. Memorial services will be at 5 p.m. on Friday, October 8, at the Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty, with the Reverend Betsey Neipert officiating. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the funeral home. The body has been cremated and burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Iowa City Hospice or the West Liberty Public Library. She was born April 23, 1945, in Iowa City, the daughter of Leroy and Rosalie Hogan Brenneman. She taught in the West Liberty School System for 35 years, before retiring in 2004. She was united in marriage to William Calef on June 30, 2002, in West Branch. She is survived by her husband, William Calef, of West Liberty; a son, Bradley Kruse, of Iowa City; a daughter, Adrienne (Andrew) Connor, of Omaha, Nebraska; and her father, Leroy Brenneman of Nichols. She was preceded in death by her mother, Rosalie Brenneman, in 2002.

Melba McElderry
Melba McElderry, 85, died Tuesday, September 28, 2004, at the Crestview Nursing and Rehab Center in West Branch, following a brief illness. Funeral services were Friday, October 1, at the Barker Funeral Home, West Branch, with the Reverend Alan Birr and the Reverend Ruth Blayer officiating. Burial was in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. A memorial fund has been established. She was born September 27, 1919, in Corydon, the daughter of Glenn J. and Etta Marie Jones Tuttle. On March 29, 1935, she was united in marriage to Robert L. McElderry in Udell. He was a Baptist minister and the couple lived throughout Iowa, Kansas and Missouri, living in Lockridge, Iowa, for eight years prior to his retirement. They had moved to Rose Hill, living there until 1978, when she moved to West Branch following his death. She had worked at NCS in Iowa City for several years. She was a member of the Downey Baptist Church. She is survived by three sons, Harold (JoAnn) McElderry of Hardy, Arkansas, Donald (Mary) McElderry of New Sharon and Daniel (Peggy) McElderry of West Branch; a sister, Sylvia Pence of Iowa City; a brother, Glenn Tuttle; a daughter-in-law, Lorena McElderry of West Branch; nine grandchildren, Connie Sue Crowley, Harold W. McElderry, Teresa Sheldon, Shawn Patrick McElderry, Robin Taylor, Melissa Powell, Robert McElderry, Jessica Dzangue and Shane McElderry; 12 great-grandchildren, Kim Kleinmeyer, Ian McElderry, Whitney Sheldon, Cassie Sheldon, Misty McElderry, Jared McElderry, Dylan McElderry, Amanda Taylor, Felice A. Taylor, Jonathon Powell, Susan McElderry, Matthew Crowley and Mackenzie Griffin; and five great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and a son, Robert Wayne McElderry.

William Carl Harold Heyer
William Carl Harold Heyer, 66, of West Branch and formerly of Iowa City, died Friday, October 1, 2004, at his home, following an apparent heart attack. Memorial services were Tuesday, October 5, at the Barker Funeral Home, West Branch. He was born May 5, 1938, in Slayton, Minnesota, the son of Elmer and Ruth Pamp Heyer. He was a graduate of Huron, South Dakota, high school and later received his undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of Iowa. He was in the U.S. Army, working in the intelligence corps, was stationed in Germany during the Cold War and was honorably discharged in 1962. He was united in marriage to the former Carolyn Baker. He had been employed with MCI in Cedar Rapids for several years. He had lived in Iowa City prior to moving to West Branch in 1993. He is survived by one sister, Donna Schmidt, of Waveland, Mississippi; and two nephews, James D. Schmidt of Chesapeake, Virginia, and Michael A. Schmidt of Bentonville, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Carolyn.