Mary Lou Bingaman Obituary

Mary Lou Bingaman, 73, of Chariton passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at Iowa Methodist
Medical Center in Des Moines.

Mary Lou was born to Charles and Eulice (Davis) Sims on May 8, 1941 in Marysville, Iowa. She attended elementary school in Marysville and graduated from Lovilia High School with the class of 1958. Mary Lou pursued a career in the travel industry, working for several different airlines and a travel agency. She retired in 1995 from American Airlines, where she made many longtime friends. 

Mary Lou was a fun person who enjoyed time spent with family and friends. She enjoyed having lunch with her friends and watching her grandkids sporting events. Friends may have known her as Mary Lou, but she will always be Momma Lou to her grandchildren. Laughter was never too far away when Mary Lou was in the area. Lunch dates with her friends always included laughing and giggling. She enjoyed mowing her yard with her zero turn lawn mower and walking around the farm. 

Survivors include her companion Dean Jones of Chariton, brother, Bob Sims of Russell, sister, Barbara Bauman of Cabool, Missouri and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard Bingaman, sister, Betty Ann Sims, sister-in-law, Gwen Sims and a brother-in-law, Richard Bauman. 

A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton with Rev. Brent Hanna officiating. Visitation will be 1 hour prior form 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date in Weller Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Legacy Lodge in Chariton.

Mary Madolene (Ballard) Amos Obituary

Born: Fri., Jan. 8, 1932
Died: Thu., Nov. 27, 2014

Private Family Service
Location: Russell Cemetery Born: Fri., Jan. 8, 1932

   Mary Madolene (Ballard) Amos was born January 8, 1932 in Humeston, IA. She left this world on November 27, 2014 to join family and friends in heaven. She was raised on a farm south of Chariton and resided in the Chariton area most of her life. After retirement in 2006; she moved to Des Moines to be closer to family. 

   She held various jobs including healthcare at Chariton Hospital and Chariton Nursing and Rehab Center. She was always working; whether it was inside or outside her home. Mary was a devoted mother and caregiver for her husband and several friends. Her house was always immaculate. She loved to bake and cook to share with others. She also enjoyed her flower gardens and a well kept lawn. 

   She was preceded in death by her parents; Charlie and Velma Ballard, her husband; Walter Amos, her sister; Darlene McFadden, her twin sister; Margaret Boston, brothers; Millard Smith and Skip Hellyer. Children; Judy Thompson, Lorilee Davis, Melvin Dwayne, Mary Louise, and Homer Boston. 

   She is survived by daughter Janice (Robert) Sorrells, Haughton, LA, son Marvin (Kate Worsley) Boston, Sacramento, CA, daughter Marilee Davis, Des Moines, IA, son Leland (Michelle Miller) Davis II, Des Moines, IA, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ed Dillman Obituary

   Services for Ed Dillman, 76, of Carlisle will be Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the Chariton Cemetery. Family will receive friends on Tuesday prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton.

   Ed passed away at home on Friday, November 14, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Mildred Dillman. Surviving is his wife, Sherrill; brother, Don Dillman; brother-in-law, Lynn Morrow; many relatives and friends. Also surviving is his beloved dog, Heidi.

Guy L. Buttz Obituary

Born: Wed., Jun. 30, 1926
Died: Thu., Nov. 13, 2014

Visitation
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sun., Nov. 16, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service
10:30 AM Mon., Nov. 17, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

   Guy L. Buttz, 88, of Russell went to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, November 13, 2014.

   Guy was born to Homer and Julia (Kern) Buttz on June 30, 1926 in Confidence, Iowa. He lived near Confidence all his school years. On August 30, 1946, Guy was united in marriage to Evelyn LaFavre. They began their marriage by digging potatoes in North Dakota. To this union were born two children: Linda and Doyle.

   Guy loved to fish and hunt and would take trips all over with his family and friends in search of that big catch. There were trips to Alaska with Doyle and friends, trips with the grandkids to Washington Island, Puerto Rico, Mississippi, California and Canada. Guy also spent many opening weekends of deer season with family and friends rehashing tales from previous years and making a game plan for the upcoming drive.

   Guy loved his family and friends and spent his whole life helping and doing for others. He was known far and wide as Grandpa Guy. He was always around to give advice on how better to do something and then would fix things when you did it all wrong. He had a knack for fixing and building things and worked building four trailer parks in Ames and Huxley. While in Ames, Guy hauled snow for the city of Ames and even took tickets at Iowa State football games.

   Guy and Evelyn loved to travel and they traveled to almost every state...camping along the way. He spent several weekends over the years rodeoing with the grandsons and was their biggest fan. He had some of the best spots for mushroom hunting and would only trust a few close family members with the location of his secret spots. Guy could also be seen around Russell and Corydon and other local parades driving his model T. He was a survivor....He made it through rolling a tractor, flipping a skid loader, several car wrecks, a stroke, a ditch caving in, and a broken neck. A little bit of stubborn helped with this too. In his later years, he enjoyed watching the birds and wildlife from the window in his home and watching Iowa State Football on T.V.

   Guy was quite the early riser. He would get up early and tinker around in the garage, always just loud enough to ensure each of the kids would wake up to assist him in whatever project he was working on. 

   Guy was a member of the New Providence Baptist Church in Confidence. He was a long-standing deacon and trustee at the church and spent numerous hours working on the church and adjacent park. He was also dedicated to the Forest Lake Bible Camp in Ottumwa using his many talents, cutting wood and building an RV park.

   Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Evelyn Buttz of Russell, daughter Linda Johnson of Russell, son Doyle Buttz of Russell, three sisters: Velma Petty of Newton, Vera Peterson of Chariton, Donna (Tom) Beal of Curlew, Washington, six grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Guy is preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Julia Buttz, brother Leroy Buttz, brother-in-law Dale Peterson and son-in-law Don Johnson.

   Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday November 17, 2014 at the Fielding Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa with Pastor Alva Skiles and Donna Beal officiating. Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m., Sunday, November 16 at the funeral home. Interment was held in the Confidence Cemetery following services. Memorials may be made to New Providence Baptist Church in Confidence, Iowa or the Legacy Lodge Hospice House in Chariton, Iowa.

Rebecca "Becky" Franck Obituary

   Becky, the daughter of Dale and Mary Lou (May) Johnson, was born Jan. 29, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa.  She grew up in Russell, Iowa and was a graduate of Russell High School.  She was united in marriage with Fred Franck on Aug. 22, 1969, in Russell.  She worked at Bandag for several years, where she was a marketing manager.  She enjoyed reading, traveling, gardening, computers, and spending time with her family.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, James "Jim" Johnson and a sister, Nancy Johnson.

   Those left to honor her memory include her husband Fred Franck of Newton, daughter, Amanda (Jarret) Nicholson of the Cayman Islands; and her siblings: Esther (Larry) Clark, Dan (Roxanne) Johnson, and Rose (Gary) Kline.

Vicki Jo Lockridge Obituary

Born: Fri., Jul. 25, 1952
Died: Fri., Oct. 24, 2014

Visitation
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tue., Oct. 28, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service
1:30 PM Wed., Oct. 29, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Vicki Jo Lockridge, age 62, passed away Friday, October 24, 2014, at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, Iowa, from complications of renal disease. Vicki was born July 25, 1952, in Chariton, Iowa, to Cecil H. and Audrey E. (Exley) Lockridge. At the age of 10, Vicki moved with her family to a farm north of Russell. Vicki was a graduate of Russell High School, Russell, Iowa, and Salvador's Beauty Academy, Des Moines, Iowa. 

Vicki owned and operated "The Lock Shoppe" salon in Chariton, Iowa, for over twenty years. Vicki took great pride in her work as a stylist, and had a very strong work ethic and close relationship with her clients. She especially loved to cut children's hair, and relished prom and graduation time. It was very important to her that her special clients looked beautiful, regardless of the occasion. 

Vicki was very well-known for her candor, and was not shy about speaking her mind. She was a generous person, and would do anything for a friend. She was a huge supporter of public education, and always encouraged her youthful clients to acquire the skills needed to follow their dreams. 

Vicki's two nieces, Erin (Lockridge) Johnson and Amy (Lockridge) Swigart were the apple of her eye. She was always supportive of their interests and educational goals. 

Preceeding Vicki in death were her parents, Cecil and Audrey (Exley) Lockridge, her grandparents, Adam and Beatrice (Merrill) Caylor, Alva Lockridge, and Claude and Verna (Troutman) Exley. Vicki is survived by her brother David (Gail) Lockridge, Russell, Iowa; nieces Erin (Wesley) Johnson, Ames, Iowa; Amy (Christopher) Swigart, State Center, Iowa; great nieces Abigail Johnson, Lucille Johnson, and Mya Swigart; great nephews Joseph Swigart and Kenneth Johnson. Also surviving are aunts Altha (Don) Offenburger, Dorothy Exley, uncles Alan (Carol) Lockridge and Dean Chappell; and numerous cousins. 

Memorial donations in Vicki's honor may be made to the American Kidney Foundation or the Talented and Gifted Program, Chariton Community School District. 

Deborah Keith Death

Deborah Keith
Born: Tue., Jun. 16, 1964
Died: Mon., Oct. 20, 2014

Private Family Service
Wed., Oct. 22, 2014
Location: Chariton Cemetery

Lucille Elizabeth Duckworth Obituary

Born: Wed., Sep. 14, 1932
Died: Sun., Oct. 12, 2014

Visitation
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, Wed., Oct. 15, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service
10:30 AM Wed., Oct. 15, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Lucille Elizabeth Duckworth (Lucy), age 82 of Russell went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 12, 2014. She attended college at Omaha Bible Institute at Omaha, Nebraska. She married Duane George Duckworth on April 22, 1951 at Temple Baptist Church in Omaha, Nebraska.

With this union in marriage was born 5 girls, Mary Elizabeth, Teresa Ann, Vicki Lynn, Pamela Joy, and Kindra Marie.

Lucy worked at Lucas County Health Center for over 20 years. After she retired, she enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also attended Grace Baptist Church for 40 plus years. She attended Cornerstone Community Church with some of her daughters during the last 3 years of her life.

When Lucy wasn't working, her favorite past time was camping, boating, and just being with family and friends enjoying the outdoors, and playing Uno & Skipbo.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Duane; her mom & dad, Asa & Edith; an infant brother, James Donald; three brothers, Bob, Bruce & Bill; four sisters, Dora, Wyoma, Betty & Helen.

She is survived by her five daughters, Mary (Bob) Chipp, Teresa Duckworth, Vicki (Ron) Bingham, Pam (Mike) Ellis, and Kindra (Dan) Utzke; 12 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

The day before Lucy's 82nd birthday, September 14th, she participated with her best friend, Marilyn, her girls, their husbands, grandchildren, and great grandchildren in a Walk to End Alzheimer's in Ottumwa, IA.

Gerald Kay Gwinn Obituary

Gerald Kay Gwinn was born February 11, 1946 to Johnnie and Leota Gwinn in Rural Lucas, IA He passed from this life October 2, 2014, at his home in Chariton, IA. Gerald was the ninth child of Johnnie and Leota Gwinn. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Rose Albright, and Betty Gwinn, and brothers Ray Gwinn, Jerry Gwinn and James Gwinn. Gerald is survived by his four children, Kenny of Russell, IA, Penny Shaw of Chariton, Darwin of Williamson, and Tony of Chariton, IA. Eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers, John Gwinn of Des Moines, IA, Lester Gwinn of Grand Junction, CO, David Gwinn of Chariton, IA, Roger Gwinn of Russell, IA, and one sister, Gwendolyn Bacon-Gist of Chariton, IA. Gerald attended and graduated from Chariton Community High School in 1964. Except for a short time living in California, he has resided in Chariton all his life. He worked as a self-employed truck driver most of his life and retired in 2008. He will be missed by many family members and friends.

Don Todd Obituary

  Services for Don Todd, 72, of Russell will be Monday, September 29, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Interment will follow at the Russell Cemetery. Family will receive friends on Sunday from 3:00 until 5:00 pm at the funeral home in Chariton. Memorials may be made to the Brushy Community Church. Online condolences for the family may be left at

www.pierschbacherfuneralhome.com .

   Don Todd was born October 8, 1941 in New Sharon, Iowa to Cecil and Ethel (Paige) Todd. He grew up in Illinois and the family moved to Chariton when he was 13 years old. He graduated from Chariton High School in the class of 1960. Don worked 15 years at Firestone followed by 20 years as a private contractor for Hy-Vee. He also dealt in real estate. As a kid he set pins at the bowling alley and as a young man worked as a line cook in Des Moines. Don was a member of the Russell Volunteer Fire Department. He was always there to lend a helping hand for his friends and neighbors; and was generous of his time towards others. Don went on 11 mission trips around the world and loved to travel. He was always considerate and respectable towards others. He enjoyed playing cards and everyone will remember his love to ride. 

  Don passed away at his home surrounded by family on September 25, 2014 at the age of 72 years. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Todd. Surviving are his sons: Jerry (Carol) Todd and Ronnie (Anny) Todd; 8 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; special friend, Mary Meinders; and siblings: Bob Todd, Rita Swiney, Gary Todd, Joyce Quiroz, Phyllis Todd, Bryan Todd, Richard Todd, and Sherri Collins. Along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Neva Duer Obituary

Born: Fri., Oct. 29, 1915
Died: Thu., Sep. 18, 2014

Visitation5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sun., Sep. 21, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service10:30 AM Mon., Sep. 22, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Neva Pearl (Holder) Duer (98) went to be with her Lord and Savior on September 18, 2014. She was born to Pearl (Collver) Holder and George Thomas Holder, on October 29, 1915. She joined sisters Ethel and Edith. A couple of years later she got a little brother, Thomas Holder. Her mother died when Neva was only three. She remembers saying, “Mama sleeping”. Her Dad never remarried so with the help of his sisters raised four kids. Neva worked hard all her life. She only finished eighth grade. She did mention that she along with her sister Ethel got 100 on a spelling test and won a prize. As children they never had much. I remember her saying one year she got an ever sharp pencil for Christmas. She worked at the county farm for a time when she was growing up. She met Chester William Duer at an activity in either Chariton or Russell. They married on February 17, 1934. They had five children: Bill, Geneva,Tom, Nancy and Patty. Neva accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior one Saturday night when she went to church with her mother-in-law, Anna Head. Later, she and Bill were baptized by immersion at the First Baptist Church in Russell, Iowa, where she is still a member. Neva worked hard. In some papers found that she had written a short history of all the places she lived at were too many even for an accountant to keep track. In 1946, they bought a farm north of Melrose, Iowa. While living on the farm, part of her duties were to milk several cows twice a day, as well as during harvest time, shruck two loads of corn a day. She also had a huge garden, so canned a lot to provide food for the family. She worked for a while in Russell candling eggs. Later she worked at the Russell Sale Barn for thirty years as a cook. She made a lot of pies and homemade noodles there. She retired from there when she was 75. Besides working at the sale barn, she cleaned houses, wall papered for people and cared for her sister, Ethel, and her brother, Thomas, who both lived at Southgate Apartments in Chariton. One of her hobbies was making quilts. In the early years she would make patch work quilts by sewing pieces together and then tying them. The last several years she has used two full pieces of material, tied them and hemmed them. She did many for the church, missionaries, and for the last several years has made and donated over 1,000 such quilts to the Alpha Women’s Center in the Des Moines and Ankeny locations. She even did almost 120 since she moved to the care facility of which sixty have been kept for future generations. She lived on the farm for sixty-two years. Later she moved to Russell, Iowa to be near her church. Nearly three years ago she moved to Ankeny, Iowa to live with her daughter Patty until eight months ago when she moved to Trinity Center at Luther Park, Des Moines, Iowa, where she was able to finely rest on September 18, 2014, when she went home to heaven. Her last move and permanent home with her Savior! Neva had a great love for children. She would always light up when a little child would come to see her. Even the other day she had been sleeping when she was told that there was a little one to see her (one of her great-great granddaughters). She woke right away. Later that same week she didn’t realize that four of her great-great grandchildren had come to see her. Neva was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, her husband, and son-in-law, Lindell Bequette. She has left quite a legacy. Neva is survived by her children, Bill (Carol) Duer of Melrose, Iowa; Geneva Baquette of Monahans, Texas; Tom (Sally) Duer of Runnells, Iowa; Nancy Moore of Des Moines, Iowa; and Patty Duer of Ankeny, Iowa. She is also survived by her grandchildren Doug Duer, Linda Friestad, Lauri (Wrandy) Polo, Michelle (Todde) Folkerts, Kirk (Lori) Duer, Scott (Michelle) Duer, John (Julie) Duer, Betty (Pat) Howell, Tina (Bruce) Amos, Lisa (Tim) Croushorn, and her step-grandchildren Dennis (Pauline) Bequette and Christiana Bequette. As of the time of her home going, she has had 26 great grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren with one more (for now) on the way. Family has always been very important to Neva . She loves us all the same! Memorials may be given to the First Baptist Church in Russell, Iowa.

Alberta Fay Ballard Poland Obituary

   Alberta Faye Poland passed away Tuesday, July 27, 2014 at 86 years of age. Alberta was born January 27, 1928 in Boulder, Colorado to Walter and Bertha (Hill) MoneySmith. 

   Alberta attended country schools in her early years and went to high school through the 10th grade. 

   On January 28, 1945, she married Howard McKinley. To this union, four children were born: Pat, Donna, Marlene, and Becky.    They lived near Russell at that time and raised purebred dogs for many years. Howard passed away, December 8, 1976. 

   Alberta moved to Chariton in 1979. On December 23, 1983, she married Doug Ballard. Doug passed away, March 6, 2001. 

   Gene Poland married Alberta on September 15, 2001. 

   Alberta worked as a Home Health Aide for the Lucas County Public Health many years in the Chariton area. She deeply loved her job and the opportunity to help others. One year, she received the Governor’s Award for home health care provider of the year. She also won ribbon awards for her homemade pies. She thoroughly enjoyed mowing the lawn and caring for her flower garden.    Alberta had a love for people, traveling, clouds,sunsets, and music. She cherished time spent with her large family, especially singing and dancing to “Rockin’ Robin. She was genuinely happy and liked to joke around even to the very end. She would always comment about the beautiful clouds, the sunsets, and the fall leaves. She would say, “I just painted those this morning”. Mom without exception had a love for hands. She would draw around everyone in the family’s hands. She would then make new ones as the children grew older.  About a month ago, her daughter, Donna and Lee put in a raised garden for Mom with her flowers and then painted the hand prints of her family on the planter. 

   Alberta is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Bertha (Hill) MoneySmith; her husbands, Howard McKinley and Doug Ballard; her brothers, Ancil (Marilyn) MoneySmith and Ivan (Verna) MoneySmith; and her sister, Carolyn (MoneySmith) Hansen. 

   She is survived by her husband, Gene Poland; her children, Pat Whitlatch and Mike of Knoxville, IA, Donna Miller and Lee of Conroe, TX, Marlene (Jerry) Edwards of Chariton, IA and Becky (Dave) McCollum of Chariton, IA; eleven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren and one on the way; many nieces, nephews, Uncle Ray Hill, cousins, Linda (Floyd) Ware; and many friends and loved ones.

Jerald Fenton Obituary

Born: Sat., Mar. 27, 1926

Died: Wed., Jul. 23, 2014

Visitation5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Fri., Jul. 25, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service2:00 PM Sat., Jul. 26, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

   Frederick Jerald Fenton, 88 years old was born to Earl and Exie Hammond Fenton in rural Lucas County near Russell, Iowa. Jerald was born in a heavy snowstorm, in those days the doctors came to the home.    Jerald attended Greenville Country School in Washington Township in southeast Lucas County and lived in a one mile radius area all his life. When the country schools reorganized, the Greenville school was moved into Russell for the Kindergarten classroom, his daughter Carol attended the first class to be held in Russell.     Jerald started farming at an early age, farming first with horses when helping his dad with the farming. He started raising Angus cattle at a young age and always enjoyed early spring when the first baby calves arrived. Jerald always looked forward to this time of year and even got his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to enjoy the new baby calves. 

   Later in life, Jerald bought the farm where he was born. Farming was a way of life for Jerald, once a farmer always a farmer. Jerald was a member of the Chariton River Baptist Church (Brushy) of Plano, Iowa. He accepted Christ and was baptized in 1940. 

    Jerald met the love of his life, Wanda Marie Sweeden and was married at the church by Rev. Leroy Sparks on October 13, 1945. To this union three loving children were born: Jerald Stephen, Connie Sue and Carol Ann. For a few years, Jerald and Wanda took their camper to Arizona for a few months in the winter and spent time visiting with family and friends. When summer came, they camped at the Iowa State Fair for over 35 years, having many overnight guests. Jerald’s first and foremost love was for his family, children and grandchildren. He was very proud of all his children, grandchildren and his great grandchildren. Jerald always loved seeing his great -grandchildren, they made him smile.  

   He was a man of few words, but you always knew what he meant or felt. He was always there to help, answer your questions or give you advice when needed. 

   Jerald was preceded in death by his parents, brother Dwight and sister-in-law Ethel Fenton, five brother-in-laws, Ernest, Ross, Lynn, Richard and Tony Sweeden and three nephews Bob and Larry Mullinix and Jerry Jones and nieces Sherry Peters and Billie Jo Zoch. 

   Left to cherish Jerald’s memory is his wife Wanda of almost 69 years, son Stephen (Michele) of Chariton, daughters: Connie (Rick) McKinley of Russell and Carol (Eric) Ziel of Boone. Grandchildren: Eric (Tawn) Fenton of Denver, Jason (Dia) Fenton of Urbandale, Heather (Mike) Kautz of Chariton, Susan (Alex) Oliver of Oakland, Erica (Brent) Conklin of Huntington Beach, California, Jennifer (Patrick) Graham of Ames. Great-Grandchildren: Morgan, Reece and Piper Conklin of Huntington Beach, California, Kellen Oliver of Oakland, and Cameron, Kaylee and Kendyl Kautz of Chariton. Sister-in-law’s Sue (Phil) Jones of Paw Paw, Michigan, Rosalie (Jim) Mullinix of Albia, Dorothy Sweeden of Arthur, and Ingna Sweeden of Odebolt, several nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

    Memorials may be made to Brushy Community Church or Brushy Cemetery, Plano, IA

Lowell D. Sims Obituary

Born: Wed., Oct. 16, 1929
Died: Mon., Jul. 21, 2014

Visitation
1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, Fri., Jul. 25, 2014
Location: First Baptist Church

Funeral Service
2:30 PM Fri., Jul. 25, 2014
Location: First Baptist Church

Lowell went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 21, 2014. He was born to Pearl Boozell Sims and Harley Nelson Sims on October 16, 1929 in Russell, Iowa and graduated from Russell High School in 1948. He received a degree in Economics from Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. He was a proud veteran of the Korean War, serving overseas. Lowell married his high school sweetheart, Arlene Ellis, on July 8th, 1951 and they were blessed with 63 incredible years together. They had two children, Gary and Diana. Lowell was the Assistant Superintendent of the Burlington Northern Railroad (Ottumwa Division) and was transferred to several cities in the Midwest spending most of his working career in Ottumwa, Iowa. In 1983, after 30 years, they retired to Florida; however, he always considered Russell his home. He was an active member of the 1st Baptist Church in Florida and in Russell and enjoyed his church related activities. He loved the Lord, reading his bible and helping with bible study. Lowell had a personality that would spark up the room. He was a practical joker with a great sense of humor. He had a generous heart and a passion for living life to its fullest. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. His fondest memories were his family trips to South Dakota, traveling on the Amtrak train with Arlene, exploring Florida and spending time on the farm. He looked forward to hunting morel mushrooms with his kids and grandkids, fishing, hunting, playing cards and driving his old tractors. Every project around the house was a scientific experiment requiring duct tape, used parts from old mowers, copper wire and W-D 40 to make it work. Many of the experimental projects are still in process. Lowell had his own sense of style. He was the master of finding things he didn’t need at garage sales and could never pass up bargains on the other things he didn’t need today, but might need tomorrow. Grandpa Lowell was adored by his grandkids. They looked forward to visiting him at the farm and in Florida. Every day was an adventure. He was a wonderful husband, a great father, an extra special grandpa and good friend to all. His love of family and friend will long be remembered. We will miss him greatly. Lowell was preceded in death by his son, Gary Sims, his grandson, Ryan Sims, his brothers, Hobart and Harold Sims, his sister Juanita Wells, and his parents. He is survived by his wife, Arlene; his daughter, Diana (Jim) Willits of Windsor Heights, Iowa; his daughter-in-law, Becky Sims of West Des Moines, Iowa; and his four grandchildren: Courtney Willits, Ashley Willits, Nick Sims and Zach Sims.

Floyd DeWitt Obituary

Born: Tue., Dec. 30, 1924
Died: Fri., Jul. 4, 2014

Visitation
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Sun., Jul. 06, 2014
Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service
11:00 AM Mon., Jul. 07, 2014
Location: Trinity Lutheran Church

   Floyd Russell Dewitt, son of Lulu Inez Jewell Dewitt and William Arthur Dewitt, was born on December 30, 1924 in Albia, Iowa. He passed away on July 4, 2014 at the Chariton Nursing and Rehab Center at the age of 89 years old. He was the last living of his siblings who were LaVonne, Esther, Genevieve, Carl and Dale (Bobby). 

   He attended and graduated from Russell Community School. His favorite activity was basketball and his love of sports continued as an avid fan of the “Iowa Hawkeyes”. Floyd grew up on a farm and spent his entire working life on a farm north of Russell. He treasured all of his years on the farm where he harbored a deep love of the land and the animals in his care. He went from using a team of horses to his Allis Chalmers tractors. 

   Floyd remained a bachelor until the age of sixty when he was swept off his feet by Gloria Moore. They married on June 29, 1985. They just celebrated their 29th anniversary. The challenge of marrying a wife with six kids proved to be a source of great joy to him. He stepped into the role of father, grandfather, and even great-grandfather. His grandkids all share memories of learning to drive the tractor and being pulled around in the little red wagon. Then one day he made us get out and pull him in the little red wagon. They will remember building a haunted house in the basement and very many more childhood memories. 

   A very special part of his life was Trinity Lutheran Church where he and Gloria helped start the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church in Chariton, Iowa. His love of God was deep. Floyd lived a full happy life and we will miss him. 

   He leaves behind his wife, Gloria and the six kids, Diane (Chris) Nelson of Des Moines, IA, Donna (Earl Bell) Grgurich of Iconium, IA, Wayne Moore of Purdin, Missouri, Carl (Julie) Moore of Russell, IA, Dale Moore of Knoxville, IA, and Dee Moore of Des Moines, IA; his grandkids, Jason Nelson, Candi and John Davidson, Lindsay and Derek Gomez, Holly Grgurich, Grant Grgurich, Jeremy and Brooke Bellon, Amy and Conrad Elmore, Cody and Jeni Moore, Christin Person and Scottie; thirteen great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Ralph Alfred Shore Obituary

   Ralph Alfred Shore was born June 16, 1937 in Russell, Iowa the son of Alfred and Eva Shore. 

   He was raised in Chariton and as a young man, Ralph worked at a mink farm. He later worked for Big Ben Coal Mine and would serve his country in the National Guard. Ralph’s career with the City of Chariton began in 1971, he worked in the Parks and Maintenance Departments for 28 years, retiring in 1999. On July 19, 1986 he was united in marriage to Jane DeHeer in Chariton. Four years ago the couple moved to Knoxville. 

   In his spare time, Ralph enjoyed playing cards and dominos. His greatest joy was being outside, taking care of the yard and garden or just enjoying the weather. 

   Ralph passed away on Friday, June 13, 2014 at the Mercy Medical Center, in Des Moines, at the age of 76 years. 

   He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Mary Blackburn, Georgia Sharp, May Cope and Bob Shore. 

   Those left to mourn his passing include his wife, Jane; children: Tina Gray of Webster City, Nancy Shore of Centerville, Rick Shore, Sr. (Patti) of New Providence, Tim Shore (Sheri) of Russell and Jamie Shore of Grand Junction; step-children: Glenda Nicholiason of Chariton, Sherry Shutt (Doug) of Grand Junction, Evey Carter of North Carolina and Wesley Carter of Knoxville; siblings: Dorothy Garrington of Chariton and Ronnie Shore (Betty) of Lawrence, Kansas and many grand and great-grandchildren and other family members and friends. 

   Graveside services for Ralph Shore, age 76 of Knoxville, and formerly of Chariton, will be held on Thursday, June 19 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ruckman Cemetery. 

   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. 

   Everyone is invited to a Potluck after the services at the park next to their home in Knoxville. Online condolences may be left at BertrandFuneralHomes.com.

James W. Cooper, Jr. Obituary

  James W. Cooper, Jr. 89, passed away December 20, 2013, in his home at Emeritus Senior Living in Rockford, IL. He was born on February 5, 1924, in Corning IA, the second of seven children to James and Charlotte (Teal) Cooper. He grew up on a farm outside of Newton, IA, attended Armstrong Country School through the eighth grade and went on to graduate from Newton High School. Jim worked for the Newton Coal Co. before enlisting in the Navy where he spent 22 months in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He returned to Russell, IA after being discharged from the Navy, where he met and married the love of his life, Aletha Jean Goltry, on May 28, 1949. Jim worked for the Veterans Association until 1952, when he began farming. In the fall of 1954, his son, James Thomas was born. 

  He was elected Lucas County Soil District Commissioner in 1958, serving for 5 terms for a total of 30 years. During his time as Commissioner, he worked to procure a meal site and transportation for Lucas County senior citizens as well as paving the road from Russell to the Wayne County line. He was a member of the American Legion where he served in all offices of the Charlie Clark Post #308 and in 1964, he was elected District Commander of the 5th District. Jim was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1968, serving for 13 years. In 1983 he was elected State Representative from District 67 and served 3 terms. Jim was also a member of; Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, ZA-GA-ZIG Shrine, Iowa Order of the Odd Fellows, Lions Club, Farm Bureau and Russell Faith United Methodist Church.

  Jim and Jean were avid campers, joining the Red Haw Campers in 1980, and enjoyed all the good times they had spending many winters in Arizona. Jim loved playing his guitar and singing Blue Grass.

Survived by his wife, Jean Cooper; granddaughter, Evin Cooper; sisters, Bonnie Gerry and Mary Jo (Johnny) Polo; host of nieces and nephews.

  Jim was preceded in death by his son, James Thomas, brother's Larry, Robert, and John and sister Lilian.

  A service will be held in the spring at the Russell Faith United Methodist Church. May 3rd Services were held at the Russell Faith United Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m.  A luncheon for friends and family followed the services.  In lieu of flowers, the family requested that any memorial to Jim be given to either the Russell Faith United Methodist Church or the Russell Legion post 308.  The Cremation Society of Illinois assisted the family. 

- See more at: http://www.cremation-society.com/obituary/James-W.-Cooper-Jr./Rockford-IL/1326416#sthash.GL36Tpco.dpuf

Wyoma Del Etter Duckworth Obituary

Wyoma Del Etter was born on February 15, 1920 daughter of Edith and Asa Etter. She passed from this life Sunday, April 27, 2014 at the Lucas County Health Center located in Chariton, Iowa at the age of 94 years. Wyoma attended country schools and went on to graduate from Russell High School. On December 25th 1937, she was united in marriage to Walter Ward Duckworth. To this union were three children were born, son Paul, who died in infancy, son Alan (Sandy) of rural Chariton and daughter Sharel (David) Jurgens also of rural Chariton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Asa Etter; her husband, Ward Duckworth; her brothers, Robert, Bruce, and William; her sisters, Dora, Betty, and Helen. She is survived by her children, Sharel (Dave) Jurgens and Alan (Sandy) Duckworth; her sisters, Lucille Duckworth and Pat Blubaugh; five grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, six great great grandchildren and many friends. Her special joy was in giving her hand-made quilts and afghans to family and friends. She will be sorely missed.

Funeral Service

Wed., Apr. 30, 2014

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Visitation

9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, Wed., Apr. 30, 2014

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Lova Devee Storm Obituary

Lova Devee Storm was born in Wayne County, Iowa on February 19, 1923. She was the daughter of Lester and Floy (Guthrie) Thatcher. Lova departed this life on April 5, 2014 at the West Ridge Nursing & Rehab Center in Knoxville, Iowa, at the age of 91 years.

Lova grew to womanhood in Russell, Iowa and graduated from Russell High School, class of 1941.

On November 23, 1947 Lova married Charles Lloyd Storm in Russell, Iowa. They shared over 66 years of marriage together before Charles’ passing in December of 2013.

Baptized at an early age at the Russell Baptist Church, after her marriage she and Charles joined the Church of the Nazarene and was an active lifelong church member.

Although Lova and Charles had no children of their own, they were a constant influence in the lives of their many nieces and nephews. Lova was a devout woman and truly enjoyed working in her church helping with whatever needed done. Lova enjoyed sewing and craftwork. Lova loved babies and many received quilts and afghans made by her loving hands. Lova enjoyed cooking and taking food to many church gatherings and family dinners.

She is preceded in death by her husband of sixty-six years Charles, her parents, her brother Leo and a nephew Mark Thatcher.

Lova leaves to mourn her passing a sister-in-law Bonnie Thatcher, brother-in-law Floyd Storm and wife Della, sister-in-law Joanne Davidson, and sister-in-law Guyletha Storm all of Chariton, sister-in-law Connie Storm and sister-in-law Cleo Storm both of Knoxville; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Lova will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 9th at the Winfield Funeral Home of Knoxville.

Lova’s service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2014, at the Church of the Nazarene of Knoxville, with Pastor Greg E. McClain officiating. Lova’s family will be present one hour prior to service time.

She will be missed by all who knew her. Memorial contributions can be made to the Church of the Nazarene of Knoxville. Condolences may be sent to www.winfieldfh.com. The Winfield Funeral Home is assisting Lova’s family with services.

Betty R. Johnson Obituary

Betty R. Johnson passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2013, at the age of 88 in her home at Emeritus Senior Living in Rockford, Illinois. She was born on March 19, 1926, in Osceola, Iowa, the second of two daughters of Oscar and Mamie (McKnight) Marquis. She grew up on a farm in Osceola, Iowa, and later moved with her parents her junior year of high school to a farm outside Chariton, Iowa. She graduated from Chariton High School with the class of 1944. After high school she worked at Crozier’s Store where she met Edwin Johnson. They were married at her parent’s home on September 10, 1947, by Reverend Archie Beals and moved to a farm outside of Russell, Iowa. They farmed for over 30 years and were blessed with two children--daughter Martha and son Duane. They retired and moved to Chariton, Iowa, in 1984 but faithfully attended First Baptist Church of Russell throughout their married life. Betty was widowed in September 2002 and moved to Rockford in July of 2011 to be near her daughter and son-in-law. Betty is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Duane and Brenda Johnson of Ankeny, Iowa; grandson and wife, Alex and Sadie Johnson of Omaha, Nebraska; granddaughter Jenna Johnson of Ankeny, Iowa; daughter and son-in-law Martha and Don Johnson of Belvidere, Illinois. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband Edwin, and sister Glida Marquis Palmer. Services were held Saturday, March 29 at 10:30 am at the Fielding Funeral home with Pastor Russell Harris officiating. Interment was in the Chariton Cemetery.

Williston "Bill" Morse Jr.

Williston "Bill" Morse Jr., 98, of Corydon formerly of Russell passed away Sunday, March 16, 2014 at Corydon Nursing & Rehab Center.

Bill was born in Pawnee City, Nebraska the only child to Williston Morse Sr. and his wife Etta (Giesman) Morse. He attended country school as a child that was lighted with kerosene lamps and heated with a potbellied stove. Bill graduated from high school in Table Rock, Nebraska in 1933. Bill was united in marriage to Mabel Mertes on October 12, 1940. Due to the severe drought and depression in the Midwest, he and Mable moved to California where he was employed at Kaiser Shipyard. While working at the shipyard, Bill enrolled in night school to study arc welding. 

After 10 years in California, they returned back to the Midwest where Bill became employed by Solar Aircraft in Des Moines. He helped pioneer the welding of titanium. Bill became about one of a dozen welders in the United States that was certified by the Air Force to weld titanium. Bill and Mabel would later buy a farm in the Chariton area. He finished his working career at Johnson Machine Works in Chariton, retiring in the early 1980's. Bill enjoyed raising cattle and a large garden. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and attending fairs of all kind from local to state to world fairs. Bill was a past member of the Russell Lions Club and the Allerton Harvest Time Church. He enjoyed his time at the church activities. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Mable Morse and his parents.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton with Rev. Ronald Wallace officiating. Interment will be in Chariton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at Pierschbacher Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to Corydon Nursing & Rehab Center. Condolences may be shared at www.pierschbacherfuneralhome.com

Howard Kenneth Hollingshead, Jr. Obituary

Howard Kenneth Hollingshead Jr., 93, of Monroe, Ohio, died Sunday, March 16, 2014. Born to Howard and Gladys (nee: Stanger) Hollingshead, Sr. on August 26, 1920 in Russell, IA. Howard worked in Sales for Cooper Industries for 30 years and retired in 1985. He was a loving husband, father, and patriot.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, David Hollingshead and one sister, Mary Yocom.

Howard is survived by his wife of 70 years, Shirley (nee: Like) Hollingshead of Monroe, four children, Larry (Lynne) Hollingshead of Lebanon, Margaret Hollingshead of Regina, Saskatchewan, Mark (Donna) Hollingshead of St. Peters, MO and Paul Hollingshead of Longmont, CO, one brother, Richard (Betty) Hollingshead of San Louis Obispo, CA, one sister, Barbara Palan of Chicago, IL, ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at 2 PM at the Mount Pleasant Chapel in Monroe. Arrangements made by Oswald-Hoskins Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.hoskinsfh.com.

Connie Lynn Long Hundley Obituary

Connie Lynn Long Hundley was born November 15, 1966 to Charles and Betty Hundley in Grinnell, Iowa. She passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2014 in her home located in Chariton, Iowa at the age of forty-seven years.

Connie was blessed with her son, Joshua Eugene Hundley, on May 3, 1985. He became her whole world. Connie was extremely proud of her role as a mother to her child. Also, she loved being a daughter, a sister, an aunt and friend as she came from a tight knit family. She was both of her brothers biggest fan in all their racing adventures. She would be the first one there to cheer them on to the finish line!! She loved spending time with all of her nieces and nephews. She enjoyed watching wrestling and would never miss an episode of "The Young and Restless" soap opera.

The most important aspect of Connie's life was all of her family. She enjoyed every minute spending time with them. If she hadn't seen someone for a while, she would want to catch up and know every detail of what was going on in their life. Connie would be the first person to help someone in their time of need. She was compassionate and could find a friend in just about anyone.

Connie was preceded in death by her father, Charles Hundley; her uncle, Jerry Moore, her aunt, Jan Moore and her uncle, Dean Hundley.

She will be greatly missed by her son, Joshua Hundley of Chariton, Iowa; her mother, Betty Hundley (Martin Conrad) of Russell, Iowa; her brothers, Donnie (Mindy) Hundley of Chariton, Iowa and Gary (Desiree) Hundley of Russell, Iowa; her aunt, Joanne Rankin of Russell, Iowa. Also mourning her passing are her nieces and nephews, Cody, Kaitie, Clayton, Shyanna, Paige, one great nephew, Caeden, and a host of family and friends.

Visitation: One hour prior to service

Fielding Funeral Home, Chariton, IA

Service: 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 10, 2014

Fielding Funeral Home, Chariton, IA

Interment: Private Interment