Michael C. Fitzgerald
Rev. Michael C. Fitzgerald, 50, of the Archdiocese of Dubuque died Tuesday, October 2, 2001 at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital, Rockford, IL as the result of a motor vehicle accident 14 miles West of Freeport, IL.
Friends called from 3:00 – 8:00 P.M. Friday, October 5, 2001 at the Chet Ryan Mortuary in Nevada, IA. Family was present after 5:00 P.M. An Irish wake was continued at the American Legion Hall in Nevada.
Funeral services were held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, October 6, 2001 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Nevada. Presiding at the Mass of Christian Burial was Most Rev. Jerome G. Hanus, O. S. B, Archbishop of Dubuque. The homilist was Rev. Dennis Cahill. Concelebrating were Reverends Ardel Barta, Dick Funke, Leon Connolly, Jerry Kopacek, Justin Kane, Joe O’Brien, David Wheeler, Jim Hayes, Michael McMillen, S. C. J. , Jon Seda, John Herzog and Carl Ries. A private burial was held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, October 7, 2001, in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Nevada, Iowa.
Michael was born November 13, 1950, in Ames, Iowa the second son of Robert Charles and Pauline Wagner Fitzgerald. He attended Nevada High School and graduated with the Class of 1969. He earned an Associates Degree at Ellsworth Community College and continued his education at Conception Seminary, Conception, MO, and St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, MN. He was ordained May 27, 1978 at his home parish, St. Patrick’s, Nevada, IA, by Archbishop James J. Byrne. After temporary duties at St. Joseph Parish, Dubuque and Immaculate Conception, Cedar Rapids, his first assignment was as associate pastor at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, where he also served on the faculty of Beckman High School. In 1984 he was appointed to St. Patrick’s, Cedar Falls and St. Mary’s, Dike, while also serving on the faculty of Columbus High School, Waterloo. He was named associate pastor of Pius X, Cedar Rapids, in 1987. He was named pastor at Assumption, Cresco and St. Bridgette’s, Bluffton in 1989. In 1996 he was also named pastor at St. Joseph’s Cresco and administrator of St. Agnes, Plymouth Rock. He was instrumental in combining the parishes in Cresco into Notre Dame. In 1997 he was appointed pastor of St. Joseph’s, Marion and St. Isador’s, Springville. In 1999 he began serving in Sacramental Services at the Iowa State Reformatory, Anamosa.
Survivors include his mother, Pauline Wagner Fitzgerald of Nevada, IA, 4 brothers: James and Kathleen of Aurora, IL, Philip and Mary Jo of Muscatine, IA, John and Sandra, and Patrick Fitzgerald, both of Nevada, IA; 2 sisters: Rebecca and David Burdess of Colfax, IA and Janese Kline of Nevada, IA. 9 nephews and nieces, Scott and Anne Marie Fitzerald, Jodi Fitzgerald, Jeremy and Jackie Burdess, Robert Burdess, Jennifer and Eric Peterson, Daniel Fitzgerald and his fiancé, Tricia Frick, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Ryan Fitzgerald and Jeff Fitzgerald.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert C. Fitzgerald and a nephew, James Eric Fitzgerald.
Mildred Catherine Anfinson
Millie died on Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at University Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa, of end stage heart failure. She was 68 years of age.
Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM on Monday, August 15, at Notre Dame Parish – Assumption Worship Center in Cresco, IA, with burial in Holy Cross Cemetery in Schley. Visitation will be Friday, August 12, from 3 – 8 PM at Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Funeral Home on South Street in Waterloo. Visitation will be on Sunday, August 14,from 4 – 8 PM at the Conway Funeral Home in Cresco with a 4:30 PM Rosary and a 7 PM Scripture.
Mildred Catherine Anfinson was born April 3, 1937 in Cresco, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Helen A. (Koudelka) Tlusty. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Schley. She attended Paris #5 country school, and graduated from Cresco High School in 1956.
On April 24, 1957, she was united in marriage to William Dean Anfinson at Holy Cross Church in Schley. To this union, four daughters were born:Madalene, Gwendolyn, Jacqueline, and Deannalyn.
After marriage, they moved to Evansdale. She worked at a greenhouse for one year, and then in 1972, she started working at John Deere for 20 years, retiring in 1992. She liked to dance, play cards, and flower gardening, and especially spending time with her daughters and grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband: Dean of Evansdale, daughters:Mandy (Bernard) Reinking of Oelwein, Iowa, Gwen (Daniel) Ferrie of Jacksonville, FL, Jacquie (Tom) Spier of Sumner, Iowa, and Deanne (Kevin) Leistikow of Readlyn, Iowa, 13 grandchildren, Ashley, Tony, and Cassie Reinking, Erica Ferrie (Eric) McCann, Crystal and Scott Ferrie, Melissa, Kevin, and David Spier, Jennifer, Kyle, Jamie, and Kalee Leistikow and one brother.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a granddaughter, Renae Reinking.
Mildred A. Beery
Mildred A. Beery, age 88, of Riceville, died Tuesday, November 29, 2005 at the Riceville Community Rest Home, after a long illness.
Mildred A. Beery was born in Riceville, Iowa, the daughter of John and Mary (Morrissey) Gaffey. She attended the rural schools through the eighth grade and in May of 1935, graduated from the Riceville High School. She worked at Wall Variety Store, taught school a few years and she and her husband ran the Coast – to - Coast Store in Riceville.
She married Daniel Henderson on February 11 1947, he died in 1957 and on November 16, 1968, she was united in marriage to Richard Beery.
Mildred was a very active person who enjoyed spending her spare time using her artistic talents, painting crafts, plates and ceramics. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church, the Altar and Rosary Society, and the Riceville Community Club. She lived most of her life in Riceville, although she spent short periods of time in Wilton, Cresco, New Hampton and Fayette.
She is survived by her children: William (Janet) Henderson of Rochester, MN, James Henderson of Iowa City, IA and Susan (Douglas) Nauman of Wilton, IA; two stepsons: Michael (Pat) Beery of Pine Island, MN and Bryan (Mary) Beery of Arizona; 14 grandchildren, three great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, a granddaughter, Jaclyn Henderson, four brothers: John, Jim, Paul and Art Gaffey; three sisters: Margaret Brown, Lucille Adams, Irene Hemrich, and two infants, Eugene and Kathleen.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Riceville, with burial in Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call at the Conway Funeral Home from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M. on Friday.
Honorary bearers will be: Jennifer Henderson, Rebecca Packer, Amanda Beery, William, Collin, Sean, and Sarah Beery.
Casket bearers will be: Lucas Beery, Lincoln Beery, Eric Nauman, Nicholas Nauman, Matthew, Patrick and Michael Henderson.
Ruth Naomi Cowles
Naomi Cowles, 97, of Tampa, FL formerly of New Hampton, died November 14, 2000 in Tampa, FL after a short illness.
A Memorial service will be held at 1:30 pm Thursday, August 2, 2001 at the United Methodist Church in New Hampton.
A private family inurnment will take place in the New Hampton Cemetery.
Ruth Naomi Cowles was born June 13, 1903 in New Hampton, the daughter of Elmer James & Clara (Whirry) Bliss. She graduated from New Hampton High School in 1921 and continued her education at the University of Northern Iowa and Fayette University. She taught for three years in the rural schools of Chickasaw county and five years at Alta Vista Public School. On June 3, 1924 she was united in marriage to Arnold W. Drape. The marriage ended in divorce and on June 26, 1946 she married Arthur W. Cowles at Hampton, IA. He preceded her in death in November of the same year (1946). She was employed by the New Hampton Newspaper from 1936 to 1942 when she became Chickasaw County Auditor, serving in that position from 1942 to 1948. During that period, she was secretary of the Iowa State Auditor’s Association fro one year. In 1949, she was appointed secretary to the Board of Education and the secretary to the superintendent for New Hampton Community Schools, a position she held for 21 years. In 1970, Naomi retired and moved to Syracuse, NY to be near her some and family. She returned to New Hampton in 1972 due to the illness of her sister, attorney Evelyn B. Wilkins and assisted in her law office. Following the death of her sister in 1979, she was employed at the New Hampton Newspapers until her retirement in 1981. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church in New Hampton, where she had the distinction of having the longest membership, dating from 1910. She was a 50 year member of the Methodist Choir, a 50 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, a 50 year member of the Home Study Circle, a department of the Women’s Federated Club.
She is survived by her son, Arnold (Bill) Drape, three grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two sisters, Marian Brand and Evelyn Wilkins.
Orrie Eddy Thompson
WØDFC
1909-2001
Orrie Thompson, 92, of Elma, died Monday, August 27, 2001 at his home in Elma of complications of cancer.
A memorial service will be held 2:30 pm Thursday, August 30 at the United Methodist Church in Elma.
Inurnment will be at a later date in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene, IA. Honorary casket bearers will be Al Culbert, Ken Carr, Bill Kohls, Vic Johnson, Jack Johnson, & Joe Ludwig.
Family will greet friends an hour prior to services at the church.
Orrie Eddy Thompson was born July 3, 1909 at Greene, IA the son of Eddy Drake & Mary Ann (Newbern) Thompson. He attended Greene Public School. After his schooling he spent time jumping trains and going out west to follow the fall harvest. On November 27, 1935 he was united in marriage to Geraldine Louise Spurbeck in Independence. Following their marriage the couple resided in Greene, where he worked at Gambles and later had his own electrical business and then went to work for Interstate Power Company. Orrie entered the U. S. Navy in October of 1943 and was a Chief Electricians Mate and Chief Petty Officer while he served in the Aluetian Islands from October of 1943 until December of 1945. After returning home from the service he owned a radio repair shop called Thompson Radio & TV in Greene. Orrie went back to work for Interstate Power Company and later moved to Riceville where the couple lived for 1 year. In 1953 they moved to Elma where he was an Area Manager for Interstate Power Company until his retirement in 1973. Orrie was also an Amateur Radio Operator WØDFC. He was also an expert pool player and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He was very dedicated to his family and friends.
Orrie is survived by
5 daughters-Kay (John) Hayden of Elma
-Connie (Don) Burzette of Stewartville, MN
-Kathy (Dave) Tempus of Nora Springs, IA
-Corinne Sivertsen of Cedar Rapids
-Mary (Larry) Thompson Williams of Rochester, MN
13 grandchildren
2 great grandchildren
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Geraldine, 3 brothers & 3 sisters.
Patricia Irene Portee
Pat Portee, age 54, died Friday, August 2, 2002 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco, Iowa, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 6, 2002 at the Assumption Worship Center in Cresco, with burial in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery rural Elma. Rev. Henry Charipar presiding. Reader will be Kristen Sunby, gifts will be carried by Aaron Zimmerman and Britanny Potter, Eucharistic Ministers will be, Marge Ludwig, Darla Rance, Jeanne McBride, and Ruth Langreck, ushers will be, Don and Ann Scharnweber; Honorary Casket bearers, Fay Freidhof, John Grube, Joe Praska, Tony McBride, Lloyd Neubauer and Tony Phillis; Casket Bearers will be: Dennis Smith, Gary Kirchhof, Kevin Balk, Larry Spalla, Tony Sunby and Joel Morgan.
Patricia Irene Portee was born on October 16, 1947 at Cresco, Iowa, the eldest child of Wesley and Doris (Hinshaw) Haskovec. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church at Lourdes, Iowa. She attended the rural school and graduated from Crestwood High School in Cresco, Iowa in 1965. She attended Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids. Following graduation she worked at CRST as a dispatcher, then she worked at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, IL where she worked for 15 years. When they moved back to Cresco, she worked part time at Hardee’s and in 1988 she was made Chief Financial Officer at Regional Health Services of Howard County. She was selected as one of the top ten business women of the year by the Times-Plain Dealer in the year 2000, and selected as the Employee of the Year with Regional Health Services and received the first annual Outstanding Worker Award from Regional Health Services in the year 2001.
Pat was a dedicated worker, a problem solver who could come up with ideas for any problem solution. She always thought of other people and once she met them, she could call them by name as if always a friend. Pat enjoyed doing crafts and going to craft shows. She also liked flower gardening and photography. She was a member of the Assumption Worship Center, its Altar and Rosary Society, the Hospital Auxiliary and she was on the Board of Directors of Kessel Kids.
Pat is survived by her husband, Greg, one daughter, Jennifer (Roger) Lalk of Elma, IA, two grandchildren: Aaron Zimmerman and Britanny Potter; her mother: Doris Grimm of Cresco, IA, and one sister: Karen (Bernie) Bernabe of Lindenhurst, IL.
She was preceded in death by her father, Wesley, her step father, Ray Grimm and one sister, Denise Haskovec.
Paul David Block
Paul Block, 64, of Elma, died Friday, March 16, 2001 at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse of natural causes.
Funeral services will be 1:00 pm Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Elma with Reverend Maurice Lind officiating. Konnie Schmidt will be the organist and will accompany those in attendance singing “Amazing Grace,” “Rock of Ages,” & “
Burial will be at a later date in the Chester Hill Cemetery with Jim Umburger, Terry Fay, Mike Suess, Robert Rickard, Robert Houdec, and Jeff Young serving as casket bearers.
Friends may call after 3:00 pm Monday at Conway Funeral Home in Elma.
Paul David Block was born January 31, 1937 at Waterloo, Iowa the son of John & Hannah (Renz) Block. He grew up on a farm near Saratoga and attended country school near his home and later school in Riceville. After his schooling he was united in marriage to Alvina Mecklenburg in Chester, Iowa on February 23, 1958. After their marriage the couple resided in Harmony, MN where he did custom harvesting until November of 1979, when they moved to Elma, where he was self-employed in the farm equipment business. He enjoyed reading, going to auction sales with his family and visiting with his friends at the sales. He also enjoyed going to toy shows.
He is survived by:
his wife-Alvina of Elma
mother-Hannah Block of Elma
15 children-Dianna Block of LaCrosse, WI
-Renita (Jack) Tesch of Backus, MN
-Suzan (Gary) Strahl of Preston, MN
-Andrew (Debra) Block of Orchard, IA
-Daniel (Brenda) Block of Elma
-Phyllis Barlow of Waterloo, IA
-Marsha Loving of Waterloo, IA
-Paul Block Jr. of Cedar Falls, IA
-Bertha (Jeff) Young of Waterloo, IA
-Carol (Steven) Meade of Platte City, MO
-Edward Block and his fiancé Cher of Waterloo, IA
-Karl Block of Elma
-Marie Block of Cresco
-Marge Block and her fiancé Darrin of Decorah, IA
-Margaret Block of Elma
24 grandchildren
2 brothers-Dennis Block of Elma
-Richard (Vickie) Block of Elma
He was preceded in death by his father John Block.
Peter Frank Kepros
Peter F. Kepros, 73, of Cresco, died Friday, August 9, 2002 in Cresco, IA.
Funeral services will be 10:30 am Monday, August 12 at St. Joseph Worship Center in Cresco with Reverend Henry W. Charipar officiating.
Interment
will be in the Calvary Cemetery, also in Cresco.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 Sunday at Conway Funeral Home in Cresco and an hour prior to services at the church.
Peter Frank Kepros was born the son of Frank and Sophia Kepros on March 14, 1929 in Marion, Iowa. He graduated from Marion High School in 1947, attended Loras College in 1948 and 1949, graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1951 and a Medical degree in 1955.
On August 30, 1951, Peter married Mary Jean Dorr in Iowa City, Iowa. This union was blessed with five children. He served in the US Navy from June 28, 1955 to January 14, 1958, before settling in Cresco, IA and starting a family practice in 1958. Dr. Pete served the community of Cresco until he retired in 1992.
He was a member of St. Joseph's Worship Center, the Knights of Columbus Council 1571 of Cresco, IA, a member of the American Legion, the Howard County Historical Society, and the A.M. A.
He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed the outdoors. In his later years he enjoyed spending time with Marvel Grabau and family. Marvel and Pete took several trips together and she was by his side to the end.
Surviving are his children: Michael Kepros and wife Peggy Ross of Geneva, IL, Dr. Joan Kepros of Cresco, IA, Karen and husband James Hayes of Buffalo, MN, Maureen and husband Dr. Samuel Lau of Eugene, OR, and Kevin Kepros and wife Jodi (Vagts) of Pine Island, MN; eight grandchildren: Laurie Rose Kepros, Jane Frances Kepros, Daniel Ross Kepros, Shannon Marie Hayes, Anthony James Hayes, Joshua Gordon Kepros, Nicholas Peter Kepros, and Samuel James Kepros; four brothers: Dr. Stan Kepros and wife Connie of Cresco, IA, Michael Kepros and wife Cecelia of Marion, IA, Stephen Kepros of Marion, IA, and Frank Kepros of Marion, IA; three sisters: Ellen and husband Dick Gonzalez of East Lansing, MI, Sister Mary Julia Kepros of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Katherine and husband Joseph Pryst of Chicago, IL
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jean, his father Frank, and his brother James.
Randall Lee Zweibohmer
Randall Lee Zweibohmer of Longwood, FL, passed away suddenly Sunday, January 15, 2006. He was 47 years of age.
Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 P.M. (Noon) Saturday, January 21, 2006 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian. Msgr. Cletus J. Hawes will officiate. Military rites will be conducted by Brockman-Hammersland Post of the American Legion. A server will be Jadie Lansing, gifts will be carried by Amy Klimesh and her children, Austin, Levi, and Kaylie Klimesh. Lector will be Gary Lansing. Honorary bearers will be: Dennis Holien, Bob Schroeder, Jamie Smith, Mark Zweibohmer, Keith Monroe, Kevin Lansing, Dale Monroe, Dave Lensing, Tom Dessel, Kermit Oakland and David Schmitt. Casket bearers will be Shawn and Kim Zweibohmer, Tom and Jeff Kelly, Dale Lansing and Dennis Monroe.
Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday, January 21, 2006 from 9:00 A.M. until time of Services.
Randall was born in Decorah, Iowa to Leonard and Eunice (Lansing) Zweibohmer on July 23, 1958. He was a graduate of South Winneshiek High School with the class of 1976. He entered the U. S. Navy, serving aboard the U. S. S. Ramsey FFG-2 and the U. S. S. Sperry, as a hull technician. After 4 years of service, he attained the rank of 2nd Class Petty Officer. After his discharge, he worked with his father at Reilly Construction Co. in Ossian, IA and then went on to be employed with Gencor Industries in Orlando, FL. At the present time, he was Senior Service Training Manager.
He had a great love of the outdoors and did much hiking and climbing mountains with his brother Shawn. Every mountain was a challenge to him and reaching the summit was the ultimate goal. This is where he spent the last hours of his life in Ocala State Forest.
He is survived by his loving wife, Deann; his parents, Leonard and Eunice; two brothers: Kim of Ossian, IA and Shawn of Eugene, OR; one sister, Amy Klimesh of Protivin, IA; two nephews: Austin and Levi and one niece, Kaylie; his mother in law, Marlys Hanson of Bemidji, MN; aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.
Randy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Mathilda Lansing and John and Justina Zweibohmer; his father-in-law, Herb Hanson, a nephew Joseph and aunts and uncles.
Raymond H. Svoboda
Raymond H. Svoboda, age 84, of Cresco died Sunday, March 26, 2006 at Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.
Raymond Svoboda was born on July 15, 1921 six miles north of Protivin in Howard County, Iowa, the son of James and Mary (Moudry) Svoboda. Ray grew up on the farm and this is where his second love was. He graduated from Rudolphinum High School in Protivin and returned to the farm to help his father farm. On April 15, 1952, he was united in marriage to Marian Phillips at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. They farmed the family farm for 40 years and retired to Cresco in 1992.
Ray loved to farm, fish, watch sports on TV and read to his grandchildren. It was the spending time with his grandchildren that he loved the most. He also enjoyed playing scrabble with them which always taught them new words.
Ray is survived by his wife, Marian; nine children: Nancy Newcomb of Edina, MN, Rachaelle Brady of Orono, MN, Tracey Svoboda of Minnetonka, MN, Sheryl (Brad) Harris of Ft. Atkinson, IA, Debbie (Keith) Oulman of Riceville, IA, Randy (Roxann) of Cresco, IA, Dan (Sharon) of Stewartville, MN, Judy (Brian) Larson of Danville, IL and Nicole Svoboda of Minneapolis, MN; 21 grandchildren: Guy (Elizabeth) Newcomb; Matthew and Lauren Brady; Abby and Brandon Harris; Che’, Tyrone, Ashley (Henry) Alonzo, Sadie and Jordan Oulman; Samantha (Joel) Zak and David (Jamie) Svoboda; Justin, Alex and Kevin Svoboda; Joe, Tim, Michael, Emily, Sarah and Matthew Larson; 3 great grandchildren: Shelby Svoboda, Eleanor Alonzo and Dylan Newcomb; five sisters: Irene Cervenka of Ft. Atkinson, IA, Gertrude Boddicker of Blairstown, IA, Mary (Bob) Bader and Agnes (Ron) Dostal both of Protivin, IA, and Helen (Arnold) Havel of Calmar, IA; one brother: James C. Svoboda of Santa Monica, CA.
He was preceded in death by one grandson, Samuel Larson; one brother, Bernard Svoboda and one sister, Alice Svoboda.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. David Beckman and Rev. Ray E. Atwood will concelebrate. Visitation will be held from 4 P.M. until 8 P.M. at the Conway Funeral Home in Cresco on Tuesday and at the Conway Funeral Home in Protivin on Wednesday one hour prior to services. There will be a rosary at 5 P.M. and a Scripture service at 6 P.M. on Tuesday. The family will place the pall on the casket at the entrance of the church, servers will be: Jordan Oulman, Tim and Michael Larson; gifts will be carried by: Tracey Svoboda, Judy Larson and Debbie Oulman; Brian Larson will be lector, eucharist ministers will be: Roxann and Sharon Svoboda; and casket bearers will be: Guy Newcomb, Matt Brady, Brandon Harris, Che' Oulman, David and Justin Svoboda and Joe Larson. Organist will be Marlene Pecinovsky who will accompany Miriam Humpal and the Church Choir in Singing "On Eagles' Wings", "How Great Thou Art," "Amazing Grace," "Ave Maria", and "Be Not Afraid. "
Raymond Leigh
Raymond Leigh, age 82, died in Bend, OR on March 17, 2006.
Ray was born in Baudette, MN on March 4, 1924. At the age of 17, he joined the Army and was in the first wave of tanks to land on Normandy Beach on D-Day. He was wounded three times.
After his tour of duty was over, he met and married Blanche Sir of Lourdes. Eventually, they and their family moved and farmed south of Cresco. In the early 70’s, Ray, Blanche and son Mark moved to Fallbrook, CA where he resided until two years ago when he moved to Oregon to be near family.
Ray was preceded in death by his wife Blanche.
Ray is survived by one daughter: Judy Hageman of Redmond, OR; three sons: Steve (Bonnie) of Shakopee, MN, Gary (Kayla) of Westminster, CO, and Mark (Julie) of Paradise, CA; three grandsons: Chris, Jeff and John; one granddaughter, Brenda; four great granddaughters, five great grandsons; brother-in-law, Paul (Mickie) Sir of Cresco, IA, two sisters-in-law, Myldred Yount of San Jose, CA and Edna Sir of Elma, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at the First Congregational Church in Cresco with inurnment in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery at Lourdes. Pastor Tim Sir officiating.
Vincent Joseph Simon
Rev. Vincent J. Simon of Ossian, IA, died Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at the Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital in Decorah, IA after an illness of about 9 months. He was 82 years of age.
Vincent Joseph Simon was born on December 27, 1921 at Tennyson, WI, the son of Joseph F. and Margaret (Stelpflug) Simon. As a young boy, he moved to Dubuque, Iowa with his family. He attended Sacred Heart and St. Mary’s grade schools. He graduatedfrom Loras Academy and went on to graduate from Loras College in Dubuque, and St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, MN. He was ordained a priest on June 9, 1946 by Archbishop Rohlman at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque, IA.
He was appointed to serve at St. John the Evangelist, Independence; Holy Family, Mason City; St. Patrick’s, Waukon; St. Patrick’s and Chaplain of Mercy Hospital, Anamosa; St. Michael, Plymouth and Chaplain of Mercy Hospital in Mason City; St. Mary’s, Hanover and St. John the Baptist, West Ridge; St. Mary’s, Roseville; St. Joseph’s, Earlville; St. Mary’s, Waucoma where he retired in 1991. He has lived in Ossian since his retirement.
He is survived by one brother, Jerome Simon of Sierra Vista, AZ and one sister: Sister Regina Simon, O. S. F. residing at Holy Family Hall, Dubuque, IA. His housekeeper of 45 years, Seraphia Uhlenhake also survives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Leonard Simon and two sisters: Edna Kuhl and Mercedes Cunningham.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, October 2, 2004 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, IA. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery. Archbishop Jerome Hanus O. S. B. will be officiating clergyman, Msgr Cletus J. Hawes will be homilist. Gift Carriers will be Sister Regina and Seraphia Uhlenhake. Alan Sensor will be organist with the Adult Choir singing. Denise Uhlenhake will be soloist and sing the “Ave Maria”. Casket bearers will be Roger Uhlenhake, Norb Hammes, Wallace Wheeler, Dan Riha, Jim McCormick and Bob Einck. Visitation will be held from 3 P.M. until 8 P.M. on Friday at the St. Francis Church and again from 9:30 A.M. until time of services on Saturday. There will be a Knights of Columbus Rosary at5:30 P.M. and a Parish Scripture Service at 7:00 P.M. on Friday.
Richard William Praska
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 7, 2004 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John A. Moser will preside with Mark and Kyle Panos as altar servers. The family will place the pall and Shelly Panos will be the reader. The gifts will be carried by the three sons and the Eucharistic minister will be JoAnn Dostal. Marlene Pecinovsky will be the organist, the song leader will be Miriam Humpal and the Holy Trinity Choir will sing, "Be Not Afraid", "You are Mine", "Only a Shadow", and "On Eagles' Wings. "The Knights of Columbus will recite the Rosary at 6:00 P.M. on Friday and the Scripture Service will be held at 7:30 P.M. The American Legion Post #605 will provide the military services at the cemetery.
Richard William Praska died at his home on August 4, 2004 at the age of 78. He was born on January 4, 1926 in Howard County, the second son of William J. and Rose E. (Riha) Praska. He attended the rural school. Following his education, he worked on the family farm. Richard was a WW II veteran serving in the United States Army from April 17, 1946 until October 17, 1947. He had his basic training at Fort Snelling, MN, was sent to Fort Lewis, Washington for eight weeks of heavy equipment training and eventually was stationed in Adak, Alaska as a fire truck driver.
On August 25, 1952, Richard was united in marriage to Celesta Marie Havel, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin by the Rev. Jaroslaus S Skluzacek. They made their home on the Praska family farm where Richard has lived his entire life.
Richard was a life long farmer, who enjoyed his farm animals, the outdoors, mowinglawn and helping the boys farm. He enjoyed playing cards, bowling, horseshoes, and playing pool with his grandchildren. He liked to attend and participate in car shows and parades. He enjoyed listening to polka music and especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
Richard was a lifelong member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, and belonged to the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion Post #605 and the Farm Bureau.
He is survived by his wife, Celesta; four children: Stephen (Barbara) of Cresco, Sue (Gary) Panos of Protivin, Sheldon on the family farm, and Shawn (Sandy) of Cedar Falls, IA; 6 grandchildren: Gerald and Deborah Praska, Shelley, Sara, Kyle, and Mark Panos, and one brother:Reuben Praska of Cresco.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Rita Theresa Wiltgen
Rita T. Wiltgen, of Ossian, died Saturday, December 10, 2005 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa, where she has lived since March 22, 2004. She was 85 years of age.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, December 15, 2005 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, with burial in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 P. M until 8:00 P.M. at the Schmitz Funeral Home on Wednesday and again from 9:00 A.M. until 10:30 A.M. on Thursday. There will be a C D of A Rosary and a Scripture Service on Wednesday. The children will place the pall on the casket at the entrance of the church. Honorary bearers will be the grandchildren who are not bearers. Casket bearers are:Kevin, Ryan and Brian Wiltgen, David Oswald, Neil Franzen and Julie Dietzenbach.
Rita Theresa Wiltgen was born on April 4, 1920, in Winneshiek County, near Festina, Iowa, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Kleve) Wenthold. She attended school in Festina through the eighth grade. Rita was one of thirteen children, and she learned at an early age, what is was like to have to work. She worked at home and worked for Dr. Horton in Calmar as a housekeeper and nanny before her marriage.
On April 15, 1941, she was united in marriage to Francis Wiltgen at Our Lady of Seven Dolars Church in Festina. They became the parents of eight children and made their home on the farm north west of Ossian. Following the death of Francis, Rita remained on the farm. She moved into the town of Ossian in 1993, where she lived until she entered the Ossian Senior Hospice.
Rita was an honorary member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the St. Francis Rosary Society. She belonged to the Springfield Homelighters, and St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church,She was a member of the Senior Citizens and worked at the meal site. She cleaned the Community Center until she was 80 years of age. She enjoyed playing cards, crocheting, embroidery, and needlework. She canned ketchup, pears etc. and loved working in her flower garden. Rita was always one who worried about someone else and tried to help everyone. She was awarded the Governors Award as a Hospice volunteer. Mostly, she always loved and cared for her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children: Bill (Marian), Ken (Carol), both of Ossian, Pat (Larry) Bruening of New Hampton, IA, Tim (Mary), Betty (Allan) Franzen, both of Fredericksburg, IA, and Lori (Gary) Dietzenbach of Ft. Atkinson, IA; 25 grandchildren: Kathy (Gary) Mauer, Kevin (Brenda), Loren (Mandy), Mark (LuAnn) and Dan Wiltgen and Sarah (Randy) Caddell; Marcine (Tom) Raatz, Lisa (Marty) Lensing, Annette (Eric) Schweinefus, Jennifer (Allen) Schott, Ryan (Kristie) Wiltgen; Shelly (Mike) Broich, Brian and Matt (Vicki) Bruening, Karen (Jason) DeVries; Katie (Phillip) Bormann, David and Dan Oswald; Melissa (fiancé Jeff Jones), Neil, Megan, and Katelyn Franzen; Julie, Kelly and Lexi Dietzenbach; 22 great grandchildren; sisters and brothers: Evelyn (Ralph) Wiltgen of Ossian, Greg Wenthold of Ossian, Thecla (Oscar) Ott of Charles City, IA, Agatha Burke of Waucoma, IA, Ray (Marsha) Wenthold of Decorah, IA, Francis (JoAnn) Wenthold of Ossian, Linus (Connie) Wenthold of Sleepy Eye, MN, Ronald (Marlene) Wenthold of Ossian, Norine (Robert) Drahozal of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Margaret (Gervase) Hanken of Ft. Atkinson, IA.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents, her husband on November 16, 1973, two infant children: Terry and Marceen, an infant sister, one brother, Edwin, two sisters-in-law: Marlene Wenthold and Leona Wenthold, and a brother-in-law, Leo Burke.
Robert Andera
Robert Andera of Cresco, Iowa died Wednesday, February 18, 2004, at theRegional Health Services- Hospital in Cresco. He was 70 years of age.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 21, 2004 at the Notre Dame Parish – St. Joseph’s Worship Center with burial in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco, Iowa. Rev. Henry W. Charipar will preside with Paul Schaefer being the lector and Deb Schaefer being the commentator. Gifts will be carried by Blake, Alisha nad Dakotah Andera. Eucharistic Ministers will be Marlene Cummings, Karen Pecinovsky, Joyce Jirak and Connie Sindelar. Suzanne Ollendick will accompany Pam Daley who will be the song leader. Casket bearers will be Nicholas, Luke, Logan, Paul, Kenneth and Jerald Andera.
Robert was born on June 17, 1933 in Winneshiek County near Spillville, IA, the son of Albert and Frances (Humpal) Andera. He attended the rural school in Winneshiek County. Following his education he started working with his brother in the electrical business in Spillville. Bob became the youngest businessman in Spillville when he had to run theelectrical business after his brothers went off to war.
On March 27, 1952, he entered the United States Navy and served with the Aviation Electrician Supply. He was honorably discharged on March 27, 1960. Following his return home, he worked with his brother in the electrical business.
On October 8, 1957 he was united in marriage to Janet Havel at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Schley, IA. They lived the first five years of their married life in Spillville. Robert and Janet moved to Cresco in October of 1962 and purchased an electrical business. Bob and his family ran Bob’s Electricuntil he sold to his sons in 1998.
Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to go hunting, fishing, camping and gardening. He was a perfect family man. He loved to do his hobbies with his family. He enjoyed having his children around him when he worked and played. He liked to watch them play in sports. Bob was aformer member of the Chamber of Commerce, one of the group that started the Christmas lights, was formerly on the Parish Council and Notre Dame School Board.
He is survived by his wife: Janet; two daughters: Deann (Rick) Lindgren of Eden Prairie, MN. , and Darla (Terry) Brown of Ankeny, IA; three sons: Dale (Lynette) Andera, Darrel (Lori) Andera, David (Shannon) Andera all of Cresco, IA; 16 grandchildren: Nicholas, Luke, Logan, Dakotah, Quincey and Keelee Andera; Blake, Alisha, Alex and Sabrina Andera;Alexa Lindgren; Cameron, Ashton and Carson Brown; Jacob and Jeremy Andera; two sisters: Marcella Hayek of Spillville, IA. , and Mary Soukup of Decorah, IA; and four brothers: Frank Andera of Mabel, MN. , MattAndera of Calmar, IA. , William Andera of Lawler, IA. , and LawrenceAndera of Decorah, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a granddaughter Nicole Ann Andera; two sisters: Adella Peterson and Frances Hageman and fourbrothers: Albert, Louis, Edward, and Cyril in infancy.
Ronald J. Regan
Ronald J. Regan, 74, of Cresco, died Tuesday, August 6, 2002 at Regional Health Services Howard County Hospital from natural causes.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Saturday, August 10 at Conway Funeral Home in Cresco, with burial in Crown Hill Cemetery in Preston, MN.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 pm Friday at the Conway Funeral Home.
Ronald was born April 20, 1928 in Ashland, WI, the son of Richard E. and Christine A. (Marik) Regan.
He is survived by two brothers: Clarence of Cedar Rapids and Donald of Fairfax; three sisters Patricia Lybbert of Cresco, Marion "Midge" Dawson of West Minster, MD, and Margaret (Peg) Campion of Eyota, MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his step-father, John Grant and his two brothers William and Richard Regan.
Rose Shimek
Rose Shimek was born on March 20, 1903 in Howard County, Iowa, the daughter of John F. and Anna (Zajicek) Vorda. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She attended the rural schools in Howard and Winneshiek County. Following her education, she was employed in the Strother Hotel in Cresco, IA.
On June 21, 1921 the Rev. Rudolf Lakomy united her in marriage to Joseph Shimek in the Holy Trinity Church at Protivin. Joe and Rose began farming on various farms, eventually farmed most of their working years on the farm between Schley and Lourdes. They retired in 1970 and moved into Cresco in 1971.
Rose had been a 4-H leader, involved in her church, was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Rosary Society and held many of its offices. She was an honorary member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and belonged to the ladies club “Evening in Paris”. She kept busy with her large garden, sewing and baking. After they moved to Cresco she became involved in the Senior Citizens. She also belonged to a birthday club and visited the care centers frequently. Her love of family, flowers and quilting kept her busy. The grandchildren will remember her for the many quilts she made for them.
Rose is survived by her daughters, Loretta (Joe) Joerger of Las Vegas, NV,and Marian (Gerry) Gehling of Albert Lea, MN; sons: Cletus (Phyllis) Shimek of Charles City, IA and Kenneth (Elva) Shimek of Cresco, IA, daughter-in-law, Roselyn (Mrs. Clarence) Shimek of Elma, IA; 31 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren; one sister: Ann (Fred) Lukes of Hoquim, WA; and a sister-in-law, Betty (Julius) Shimek of Bloomington, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joe on January 3, 1977, one daughter, Lorraine Pesek in 1978, one son, Clarence in 1999, one great grandson, Kevin Joerger, one brother, James Vorda, three sisters, Mae Nibaur, Agnes Wiest, and Celia Shimek, and three son-in-laws:Cletus Vokaty in 1972, Robert Pesek in 1975 and Joe Joerger in 1996.
Rose died on December 23, 2002 at the Cresco Care Center where she has made her home since 1995.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, December 28, 2002 at the Notre Dame Parish – Assumption Worship Center in Cresco, IA. With burial in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery at Lourdes. Rev. Kenneth Gehling will concelebrate with Rev. Henry W. Charipar, and Rev. John Moser if possible to attend. Mary Tremmel will accompany Pam Daley who will lead the congregation in singing, “Amazing Grace’, On Eagles’ Wings” and How Great Thou Art”. Mary will also accompany Diane Gehling who will play “Ave Maria” on the clarinet. Lectorswill be: Kirk Shimek, Jerry Shimek and Jeff Gehling. Gifts will be carried by the three children: Cletus, Kenneth and Marian. Eucharistic ministers will be Cletus Shimek, Jim and Ann Ott, and Father Gehling. The pall will be placed by the children. Casket bearers will be grandchildren:Joe J. Joerger, Mary Pat Shimek, Marcia Groote, Janis Steen and Jillaine Kappes.
Conway Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements.
Ruby Grace Ott
Ruby Ott died Tuesday, August 31, 2004 at the Cresco Care Center where she lived for just a short period of time. She was 82 years of age
Ruby Grace Ott was born on December 7, 1921 in Milford, IL, the daughter of August and Hazel (Marvin) Krueger. She attended school in IL until she moved as a young girl to Howard County and finished her schooling in Cresco.
On May 18, 1957 she was united in marriage to Herbert C. Ott. Ruby did upholstery for many years.
She is survived by three children: Carol (Richard) Scoates of Mendon, MI, Patricia (John) Christner of Mesa, AZ, and Ronald Haukes (and special friend, Shirley) of Sauderville, MN; 8 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren, and one brother, Edward Krueger of Hartville, MO.
Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Herbert on,one son, Larry Haukes, one granddaughter, Robin, one brother, Harry Krueger and one sister, Alice Ott.
Ruby was not one to talk about herself, but wanted the following on her obituary.
In time of sorrow when words of comfort are needed most, it seems they are most difficult to say. Beyond the rainbows fartherest end there lies a land that’s always filled with love and light. Where shadows never fall and dim the skies. For in this lovely land, there is not time or space, no doubt or fear, all worldly difficulties disappear.
When I must leave you for a little while, please go on bravely with a gallant smile and for my sake, and in my name, live and do all things the same. Pray for me and sing a song.
It really won’t take too long. I wanted to tell you all good-by or have you hold my hand, but I know God was with me, and now I understand. I’ll miss the happy times we had. If I could send a message, that message would be love. I know I’ve found a happy home at peace with God above.
Russell Lee Stanley Jr.
Russell Stanley Jr. ofCresco, IA, died Sunday, April 2, 2006 at the Nora Springs Care Center in Nora Springs, IA, where he as lived since the 21stday of March. He was 76 years of age.
Russell Lee Stanley Jr. was born in Chicago, IL on June 19, 1929, the son of Russell Lee Sr. and Ellen A. Toll Stanley. He grew up in Chicago and graduated from Lane Tech. After graduation, he worked for a couple of different places until he entered the U. S. Army on March 4, 1951 and was discharged on June 4, 1953. On June 18, 1955, Russell was united in marriage to Pauline Carsten at St. Jerome’s Church in Chicago.
They made their home in Chicago until they moved toRound Lake, IL in 1961. While living in Chicago, Russell worked for various companies and after moving to Round Lake, he worked in the Post Office, was a part time policeman, worked for a while for International Harvester and finally went to work at Baxter Labs. Russell and Pauline retired to Florida and later decided to move closer to some of Pauline’s family, so they moved to Greenleafton, MN until they found a home in Cresco in 1999. They were members of Notre Dame Parish in Cresco.
Russell is survived by his wife, Polly; four sons: Michael (Debra) of Springs Grove, IL, Patrick (Debra) of Mundelein, IL, Nicholas (Paula) of Comas, WA and Anthony (Kathie) of Grayslake, IL; four grandchildren, four step grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and one brother: Ronald (Benita) of Kissimmee, FL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, George Russell in 1983 and one brother, David in 1982.
Funeral Services are going to be held at St. Joseph’s Church in Round Lake, IL with burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery at Round Lake, IL and will be handled by the Strang Funeral Chapel of Grayslake. Conway Funeral Home handled the local arrangements.
