Lois Faye (Pearson) Vogler Obituary

December 29, 1929 ~ December 27, 2016 (age 86)

GRAVESIDE SERVICE
Saturday
May 27, 201710:00 AM
Chariton Cemetery
Chariton, Iowa

Lois Faye (Pearson) Vogler passed away at the age of 86, December 27, 2016 at the Circle of Life Legacy Lodge in Chariton, Iowa. Lois was born December 29, 1929 in Promise City, Iowa in Wayne County to Lewie Melville Pearson and Marie Valentine (Stonebraker) Pearson. Lois had two sisters Twila and Rose, they grew up on a farm in Lucas County. Lois rode her horse 2 miles to a country grade school on Rabbit Ridge and went to Chariton High School. She attended May Church as a young girl and was baptized at the First Baptist Church when she was 16 years old. Lois married George Edward Downard April 12, 1947 and they had four children, Linda Marie, Lewie Dean, Richard Lee and Mary Coleen. Lois and George moved to Russell, Iowa in 1950 to raise their four children. George drove a semi-truck for Russell Produce. George and Lois enjoyed having card parties with their friends in Russell. Lois worked at the O’Donalds Nursing Home from 1961 to 1972. Lois married Vernon Vogler in 1966. She worked at the Mill Pond Inn in Russell and Lucas County Public Home Health for 16 years. She retired in 1992 because of her health. Lois had lived in Russell for 52 years. She moved to Autumn Park Apartments in Chariton. Lois was a hardworking person, she never left her work undone. She instilled good values in her children and always told them to save their money. After she retired Lois had time to sew quilts for her family, read books and cook, making the best peanut brittle and pecan cream pie. You never left Lois’s home hungry. Lois also loved playing with her grandchildren. Lois is preceded in death by her parents Lewie and Marie Pearson, daughter Linda McKee, son-in-law AD McKee, sister Twila and brother-in-law Gene Spiker, sister Rose and brother-in-law John Heston. Left to cherish her memories are son Lewie Downard of Sarasota, FL, son Richard Downard from Clinton, IN., daughter Coleen Downard of Chariton. Three grandchildren Sheri (Tim) Shore, Tiffany Mason (Cory Gallup) and Coty (Kat) Downard. Six Great-Grandchildren Trinity (Nathan), Tyler, Tressa, Dylan, Carver and Odin. Two Great-Great-Grandchildren Blane and Bristel. Sister-in-law Mary Ellen (Cleo) Moody of Terre Haute, IN.

Gerald Foutch Obituary

MASON CITY — Hogan-Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel

Gerald Foutch, 89, of Mason City, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 12, at the Nora Springs Care Center.

Family suggests memorial contributions be sent to North Iowa Humane Society. In lieu of flowers, condolences may be directed to the family.

Celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

He was born in Russell, Iowa, on Jan. 24, 1927. Gerald graduated from Russell High school and was known to play piano at school event. He was married to Arlene Mumford on Easter Sunday, April 6, 1947, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.

Gerald was an owner and operator of several independent businesses in Mason City and Clear Lake. As a licensed pilot, he enjoyed many years of aviation, travel and retirement in Arizona. His greatest moments were spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gerald, over the years, especially enjoyed his pet dog Biggie and cat Mindy. Living family members who cherish his memory are his Wife, Arlene, Craig (Kathy), Dee (Russell), and Gary.

Proud Grandfather of Tyler (Kris), Jessica and Kara (Tavis). Beloved Great-Granddaughters Sophia

and Lydia.

He was preceded in death by his Father Harry, Mother Merial, Brothers Lloyd, Donald and Dean. Hogan-Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. S.E., Mason City. 641-423- 2372, 

ColonialChapels.com.

John Rash Obituary

John Faris Rash was born to Howard J. and Florence S. (Faris) Rash at home on May 18, 1928 in Zearing, Iowa. John was one of six children.

John attended and graduated high school in Union, Iowa. During that time he gathered many friends and memories playing basketball and baseball. 

John met the love of his life in school and married Margaret C. Hager on August 6, 1950. This union was blessed with six children Douglas, Dwight, Daryl, Darla, Donavon and DaLene.

John spent his life on the farm we he instilled a work ethic in his children. He would only go to town twice a year, once to the cattleman’s banquet and once to the W.W.F wrestling match. 

Upon retiring he enjoyed fishing, going to his grandchildren’s sporting events, which continued onto his great-grandchildren’s events. He also became a great socializer splitting his time between the Chariton Feed and Grain “The Gossip Shop” and the Eastridge Animal Clinic.

John also enjoyed his professional sporting events. He didn’t care who won or lost he just wanted a good game. 

Time apart was not meant to be as one month to the day of losing his wife of 66 years they were reunited for eternity.

Preceding John in death are his parents, wife Margaret, son Donavon, grandsons Robert and Matthew, siblings Dave, Ruth and Margaret. Left to cherish his memory are his children Douglas of Chariton, Iowa, Dwight (Janet) of Kearney, NE, Daryl (Dixie) of Avoca, Iowa, Darla (Doug Adrian) of Russell, Iowa, DaLene (Mark) Kahler of Cambridge, Iowa, brother Joe Rash of Union, Iowa and sister Milicent “Ann” Woodward of Conrad, Iowa. As well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Marion Allen Obituary

Services for Marion Allen, 96, will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service on Wednesday. Interment will be at the Chariton Cemetery.

Memorials in Marion's memory may be made to HCI of Knoxville, an Animal Rescue League of your choosing, or the First Baptist Church in Chariton.

Marion James Allen, 96, formerly from Russell and Chariton, Iowa went to be with his Heavenly Father November 12, 2016 at the Accura Nursing Home in Knoxville where he was a resident. Marion was born July 14, 1920 in Monroe County, Iowa on the farm of his parents, Charles and Ruth (Cessna) Allen.

As a child he attended Sunday School at Hayden Chapel near the family home. Later he became a believer, was baptized, and became a member of the Christian Church in Albia, Iowa .He was a member of 4-H and showed his prized white face steer at the Iowa State Fair in 1939. He played the trombone in the Albia High School Marching Band.

On Christmas Day, December 25, 1943, he married Thelma Grace Calhoun whom he had met the first day they entered Albia High School, the Class of ’39. To this union a daughter Nancy Kaye and a son James Gene were born.

In 1951, they moved to a farm in Lucas County. In about 1954, they became members of the First Baptist Church in Chariton, Iowa. Marion was quite active. Marion and Maxine Randall taught the 4th and 5th grade Sunday School class for nearly twenty years. He and Grace were the leaders for high school youth fellowship along with Telfer Epp for nearly twenty years. He also served as a deacon many years. 

In August 2003, Marion and Grace moved to Chariton to the little yellow house. After Grace passed away in 2008, he purchased a three wheeled recumbent bicycle which he drove all around town. In August 2011, Marion moved to North Ridge Assisted Living in Chariton. From there he moved to the Accura Nursing Home in Knoxville in May 2015.

Marion was a farmer and loved his garden but still had a full time job also (including on the line at Morrell Meat Packing, John Deere, and Solar Aircraft, as a bookkeeper at Russell Produce and the Coop in Chariton, as a bus driver for Russell School, and in maintenance at the Hy-Vee offices in Chariton). He loved woodworking and raising sheep but most of all he loved his Bible and what it stood for. He was always honest and fair in his dealings, sometimes too trusting, but never complaining.

The summer of 1960 was the beginning of family vacations. They started with a Rambler, then a tent, then a pickup camper. Marion loved to go, whether close by or far away. They traveled to 46 of the lower 48 states during the one or two week summer vacations over the years along with a trip to the Stampede in Calgary (Marion’s request). Daughter Nancy did most of the driving as her parents grew older.

Marion and Grace celebrated their Golden Wedding by renewing their vows at First Baptist December 26, 1993. They celebrated their 64th anniversary on Christmas Day 2007 with the family.

He is survived by his daughter Nancy Moss and fiancé Virgil Arns, son Jim, grand-daughter Melissa Allen (Vince) Poush, great granddaughter Jamie Allen (Dillon) Maple, great grandsons Tanner Poush and Blake Poush, sister-in-law Thelma Calhoun Hoover, nieces Doris (Dick) Mahin Algren, Roseann (Gary) Calhoun Miller, Shirley (Mike) Calhoun Moon, Carol (Roger) Calhoun Kendall and nephews Duane Mahin, Ron (Charlotte) Calhoun, Richard (Pam) Calhoun, Leon (Cindy) Calhoun, Karl Calhoun,

He is preceded in death by his wife Grace on March 5, 2008, brother Keith (Thelma), twin sister Mildred (Irvin) Mahin, son-in-law Curtis Moss, twin grandson’s Richard and Robert Allen, niece Rhoda (Don) Calhoun Bruhl, nephew Rex Calhoun.

Harry Tanner Obituary

Where does one begin to tell the story of a man who has lived 99 years? William Harry Tanner started his long life in Kellerton Iowa, born at home to Fred and Jessie (Sissle) Tanner. Times were certainly different than they are now, a man was a gentleman, he took care of his family which meant his wife, children, siblings anyone else that need help. Dad married our mom Glendoris Shelton on December 24, 1940 they celebrated 72 years of marriage together before mom passed, times were hard in the early years but they were happy. They had four children; Judith, Wanda, Raelynn and Kevin. Dad and Mom were members of the Christian Church and shared their love and faith in God which they taught their children.

After retiring from Armstrong Tire in Des Moines he moved his family to Apache Junction Arizona, he enjoyed tinkering around his garage and could make or fix anything. 

Dad always had a story to tell, I especially remember one about a young boy 14 years old that he saw along the road on his way home from work, he was sitting on a suit case crying, his parents had died and had no place to live. Art Willard lived with them until he graduated high school and then joined the army. There was always room for anyone that needed a place to stay or needed a hot meal.

Dad saw so many firsts in his life; he would tell about school letting out when an airplane flew over, the first car his dad bought, the first time his mother came home with all her hair cut off (apparently, that wasn't the thing to do), indoor plumbing, electric lights, radio, and TV. Listening to him was like reading a history book with details that you couldn't learn in school. 

Being the oldest of 7 children, there was always work to be done to help out his parents on the farm. He spoke of hitching the horses to the plow and turn the field to plant, hauling water, cutting wood to cook and heat with. The way they stored their garden crops in a cave or dried pumpkins, onions and anything else in

the attic. His brother Rex and him would go hunting every day, he would say "we didn't have a Hy-Vee to go get our meat so we had to hunt to survive". Those we the good old day, he would say and laugh.

There were many passions dad had other than his family and gardening was one, he always grew more than we could can and use, but there was always someone that he could give the excess to. I don't know how many people would come and pick rhubarb from his massive patch, he really enjoyed sharing and helping

others. Fishing was the other passion, if you mention fishing and he was gone! Him and mom would take a lunch and sit all day fishing. He could tell what tree was by looking at the leaves or bark, when he heard a bird sing he knew what kind it was, he was our dad he knew everything!

As dad got older 90 or so, his fishing stopped and the garden got smaller, he never thought of himself as old maybe that is why lived such a long life. My dad was my best friend and I will miss him terribly, we shared so much. we would sit and talk for hours. We would share the first Robin we would see, or geese flying north and he would share his prediction of what the coming weather would be. We always made a trip to Ellis greenhouse in the Spring and would discuss what verity we would try this year in the garden. I will miss out road trips and he would tell me that weeds are just a wild flower that no one likes.

Harry was proceeded in death by his parents Fred and Jessie, his wife Glendoris, all of his siblings, a daughter Judith Diane Porter, Judith's husband Levi, one Grandson David Glover. He will be greatly missed by his son Kevin (Susan) Tanner, his daughters Wanda (Teddy) Reed and Raelynn (Scott) Luehring, many, many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Memorial can be made to Chariton Christian Church Disciples of Christ or Circle of Life Hospice. 

1 THESSALONIANS Chapter 5 verse 14-18 

DEAR BROTHERS, WARN THOSE WHO ARE LAZY; COMFORT THOSE WHO ARE FRIGHTENED; TAKE TENDER CARE OF THOSE WHO ARE WEAK; AND BE PATIENT WITH EVERYONE. SEE THAT NO ONE PAYS BACK EVIL FOR EVIL, BUT ALWAYS TRY TO DO GOOD TO EACH OTHER AND TO EVERYONE ELSE. ALWAYS BE JOYFUL. ALWAYS KEEP ON PRAYING. NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS, ALWAYS BE THANKFUL, FOR THIS IS GOD'S WILL FOR YOU WHO BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS.

Christine "Chris" Ann (Johnson) Cloat

January 4, 1942-September 21, 2016

Bartonville, IL - Christine "Chris" Ann Cloat, 74, of Bartonville passed away Wednesday September 21, 2016 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Born January 4, 1942 in Chariton Iowa to James and Ethel May (Watkins) Johnson, she married Jerry A. Cloat on March 3, 1967, in Peoria. He died September 9, 2010.

She was also preceeded in death by her parents, one son, Brad Aspenson and a grandson, Zachary Cloat.

Surviving are daughters, Kim (Clay) DeMaster of Mapleton, and Lisa (Todd) Coon of Groveland; a son, Scott (Connie) Cloat of Bartonville; four grandchildren, Ryan (girlfriend, CourtneyPherigo) Davis of Bartonville, Audrey and Sophie Cloat of Bartonville and Cade Coon of Groveland; a sister Pam (Dave) Teno of Melrose, IA; a brother in law and sister in law Ron and Jane Cloat of West Peoria and several nieces and nephews.

Chris worked as a medical secretary for many years and as a cashier at Thompson's Food Basket in Bartonville.

She was an avid sports fan, particularly of NASCAR, the Chicago Bears and Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Chris and Jerry were members of several car clubs, including Lincoln Land Kustoms, Midwest Ford and were founding members of the Fourever Ford Model A Club and Early Ford V-8 Club.

Visitation was from 4-7 pm Monday September 26, 2016 at Davison Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Graveside services were held 10am Tuesdatm September 27, 2016 in Lutheran Cemetery in Peoria. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Online tributes may be left at www.Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel.com.

Paul E. Force Obituary

Paul E. Force,89, of Russell, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, October 4, while at Iowa River Hospice Home in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Paul was born in Osceola, Iowa on June 5, 1927, to Guy and Nora Force. He grew up in Russel with his sister Irma, who passed away in 1937, and his three brothers: Ardys (Bud), Wendell, and Donald. He had fond memories of his times at Russell School and enlisted in the Army after graduating in 1945. Paul spent time in Panama while in the service. 

Paul married Betty Bingaman in 1950. Together they raised their family in Russell. They had children: Peggy, Robert, Richard, and Debby. Upon returning from the Army Paul worked various jobs around Lucas County until 1951, when he joined the US Postal Service. He spent 16 years working the mail train running between Chicago and Omaha and in 1967 transferred to Postal Service positions in Des Moines. He retired in 1982.

Paul was very active in the Methodist Church, the American Legion, the Lions Club, and helping anyone who needed it. Paul and Betty enjoyed traveling to visit their children and grandchildren. Paul and Bill Winsor attended every Iowa State football game for many years. Betty passed away in 1996. In 1999 Paul married Alene Smith. Paul and Alene continued to travel, enjoying their attempt to see every county seat in Iowa. Alene passed away in 2011.

Along with Betty and Alene, Paul now joins his sister Irma, brothers Ardys and Wendell, and his daughter Peggy. Left to cherish his memory are sons Robert (Jan) of Cathedral City, CA, Richard of Atlanta, GA, daughter Deb Hawks (Bruce) of Marshalltown, IA, son-in-law Ed Adam of Mills River, NC, eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Donald Gene Schumann Obituary

Donald Gene Schumann to meet his heavenly father September 23, 2016 by his family at Legacy Lodge. Don was born on July 11, 1935, and was the oldest child of Albert and Hazel (Hull) Schumann. Don graduated from Derby High School in May of 1953. He married Carmen Dorsey of Chariton on December 28, 1973. They were blessed with five children, Dixie, Darla, Todd, Tony and Tonya.

Upon graduation Don worked for Wright Tree Service. He was later employed by Chariton Auto, City Auto and Napa for over 50 years. He also worked for several years at the' Hy-Vee warehouse. Don was a member of the Russell Fire Department for fourteen years during which he acted as Chief for four years as well as Treasurer. Later he served on the Humeston Golf Course Board for four years and the Brushy Church Board for three years.

Don enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his family always came first. Don loved to tell stories about how it was as a child and how to make something out of nothing; he could fix anything. Don's hobbies included, hunting, fishing, golfing, camping and going to music festivals with friends.

Don leaves behind to cherish his loving memory his wife of forty-two years, Carmen; daughters, Dixie (Ed) Bandy, Darla (Dave) Hulseberg, and Tonya (Scott) Brink; sons, Todd (Lisa) Schumann and Tony (Samantha) Schumann; three sisters, Joyce (Fred) Throckmorton, Janet (Garry) Throckmorton, and Judy(Lyle) Dorsey; one brother, OD (Bud) Schumann; sisters-in-law, Joyce Schumann and Carolyn Schumann; eighteen grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Hazel Schumann; father and mother-in-law, Olen and Irene Dorsey; sister, Jewel Schumann; brothers, Hubert Schumann and Gary Schumann; granddaughter, Courtney Schumann; and sister-in-law, Linda Schumann.

Don was a special man whose generosity, kindness and humor will be truly missed by his many friends and family. Memorial contributions may be made to Brushy Church, Legacy Lodge or Humeston Golf Course.

Robert "Bob" Sims Obituary

Robert "Bob" E. Sims passed away at Legacy Lodge in Chariton on Thursday, September 8, 2016 at the age of 86 following a gradual decline. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. 

Robert "Bob" E. Sims was born June 29, 1930 in Marysville, Iowa, the first child of Charles Wesley Sims and Eulice Davis Sims. Bob spent the majority of his early years in Marysville, graduating in 1948 from Lovilia High School. On July 2, 1949 he married Gwendolyn Jean Martin in Hamilton, Iowa. To this union were born three children. Steven Marcus, Toni Lynn and Michael Dean. During the early years of their marriage Bob was the office manager for Combs Outdoor Advertising. In the late 60's, when that business was sold, he bought the southern tier of that company and continued in outdoor advertising as Y-Knot, Inc. During his work years Bob participated in various community activities, including Jaycees and Eagle Scouts.

Bob and Gwen spent their entire married lives in Lucas County, first in Chariton and later in rural Russell. They were truly a team, whether building or remodeling their homes, raising their family, or exploring their world together. Their retirement years found them traveling the United States in their conversion van, visiting relatives and interesting places. Bob was an avid outdoors man who loved to hunt and fish, with many annual fishing trips, first to Minnesota and more recently to Missouri. He loved to share his catch with friends almost as much as he enjoyed catching fish. An avid gun enthusiast, he spent many hours reloading his own ammunition and attending shooting events around the mid-west. 

Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years Gwen, his parents, sisters Betty Sims and Mary Lou Bingaman, mother and father-in-law Verla and Hazel Martin, brothers-in-law Richard Bingaman, John Wilson and Richard Bauman, and sister-in-law Arlene Wilson. He is survived by his children, Steve (Linda) Sims of West Des Moines, Toni (Jerry) Vogler of Wichita, KS, Mike (Vicki) Sims of Russell; special friend Darlene Arnold of Chariton, 5 grandchildren Jane (Kevin) Cragun of Stillwater OK, Matt Vogler of Wichita, KS, Lindsey (Michael) Deatsch of Oklahoma City, OK, Michelle (Michael) Swainey and Bobby Stanford of Chariton; 5 great-grandchildren; sister Barbara Bauman of Cabool, MO, sister-in-law Geraldine (Larry) Ethell of Milo, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A quiet man who lived his daily life by the Golden Rule, Bob will be truly missed by his many friends and family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Russell Sportsmen's Club. 

Visitation

SEP 17. 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Service

SEP 17. 10:30 AM 

Pierschbacher Funeral Homes - Chariton

914 Roland Ave

Chariton, IA, US, 50049

Marilyn Clayton Obituary

Marilyn Clayton, age 85, of Brooklyn, Iowa, died Wednesday, September 7, 2016, at the Brooklyn Community Estates. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 1:30 p.m., Monday, September 12, 2016, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Brooklyn. She will be laid to rest in the Calvary Cemetery, Brooklyn, next to her beloved husband and daughter. Visitation will be 3 to 6 p.m., Sunday, September 11, 2016, at Kloster Funeral Home, Brooklyn. A memorial fund has been established. There will be a luncheon in the church fellowship hall beginning at 12:00 p.m., prior to the service on Monday, September 12, 2016.

Marilyn is survived by her children R.M. “Rusty” (Jeanne) Clayton, Jr., of Brooklyn, Gerald W. “Jody” of Brooklyn, James G. Sr. (Sandy) Clayton, of Brooklyn, Kathaleen M (Jim) Snoeberger, of Delphi, IN, Joel Clayton and Sandy Dobson, of Brooklyn, and Annette M (Carl) Marshall, of Chariton; twenty grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and a sister Janet Manatt Pilcher.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Max and daughter Mari Lynn at birth, six siblings Mary Ellen Christen, G.J. “Junie” Manatt, Merlin Manatt, Clair Manatt, Anita Manatt and Judy Sueppel.

Marilyn Ann Manatt was born June 17, 1931, in Grinnell, the daughter of Gerald “G.W.” and Margaret Brotherson Manatt.  She attended and graduated from the Brooklyn Schools.  Marilyn was united in marriage to Russell Max Clayton and was married for 50 wonderful years.  They were in love their whole adult life, spending much of their free time living life and making friends.  They would always bring food or something to many people in need or who suffered the loss of someone.  They enjoyed traveling to Texas in the winter and hanging out with their friends.  Marilyn had a passion for collecting, from Beanie Babies to glassware and jewelry.  She loved to cook and bake and would always ask you to stay for the meal she had ready, whether you were family, old friends or strangers who happened by.

Rita Werts Coffman Obituary

October 19, 1931-May 7, 2016

Lorita (Rita) Mae Werts Coffman, daughter of Richard Robert Werts and Lorita Colette Smith Werts, was born October 19, 1931 in Chariton, Lucas County, IA. She passed away on May 7, 2016 in Springfield, MO. She was 84 years of age.

She was raised on a farm near Russell, IA in Lucas County. Upon graduating from Russell High School, she graduated from Iowa State University in Ames, IA with a major in home economics. Later in life, she attended graduate school at Missouri State University.

She was employed with Crosley-Bendix in Cincinnati, OH, where she tested Crosley refrigerators, ranges and dishwashers in their engineering & research development laboratories.

Her career was continued in Kansas City, MO at the Midwest Research Institute (MRI) and at Niven-Russell Research Associates, where she did laboratory research for Maytag and Folgers. She was later employed as a substitute teacher at Rogersville, MO. She was also an active partner in a family rental business.

She married Paul Robert Coffman on August 19, 1956. To this marriage, three daughters were born. Rita continued to work, while Paul attended law school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City.

The couple moved to Carthage, MO, where Paul began his law practice. They moved to Joplin for a short time and then to Springfield in 1960.

As a mother, she played an active role in her daughters’ activities, nurturing their musical training and made many of their clothes.

Her hobbies included bridge, reading, investments, bird watching and genealogy. As a member of the Rachel Donelson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she became interested in family history and participated in the publication of two family genealogy books.

She was a fitness enthusiast, loved the outdoors and walking the neighborhood sidewalks. She participated in several local runs, including the hilly Wilson Creek 10K.

She was known for her involvement in the community, serving as a volunteer for the Cox Hospital Auxiliary for 36 years; as a Sunday School teacher and choir member at Wesley United Methodist Church; and as a Camp Fire Girls Leader.

Survivors include cherished companion, James P. Gray of Springfield, MO; daughters Colette Lorita Coffman of New York City, NY; Catherine Grace Coffman of St. Louis, MO; Carolyn Marie Coffman Fox and her husband Gary Winckel of Valdosta, GA; grandchildren Hannah Elizabeth Fox, David Louis Fox, Jr. and John Paul Fox; brother Donald Eugene Werts, his wife Heidy Pan Werts of Brea, CA; sister-in-law Betty Hedegard Werts of Elkhart, IN and four nieces and one nephew.

Preceding Rita in death were her husband Paul Robert Coffman of Springfield, MO; father and mother, Richard Robert Werts and Colette Lorita Smith Werts of Russell, IA; and brother Wayne Eldon Werts of South Bend, IN.

A graveside service for the family will be held at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Springfield. Arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home South. Memorials may be given to the Salvation Army.

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Richard Martin Obituary

Richard Mervin Martin age 87 passed away surrounded by his family on September 2, 2016 at Lucas County Health Center in Chariton, Iowa. Richard was born on June 19, 1929 at home in rural Russell, Iowa. Richard also graduated from Russell High School in 1949. Richard was the youngest of three children.

Richard married Winifred Eva Allen on June 28, 1953 in Monroe, Iowa. From this union three children were born Dennis, Colleen, and Barbara. He was saved and baptized at the Brushy Church and later in life attended services at Chariton Christian Union. He served in the National Guard and was honorably discharged. He went on to become an Automotive Body & Mechanical Technician working in various shops until he opened Martin's Auto Body located in Russell, Iowa. He continued running his own business until his health prevented him from doing so in 1973 at the age of 46. He grew up and spent most of his adult life in Lucas County, Iowa.

Richard enjoyed old cars, studying bible prophecy, and playing Skip-Bo with his family. His children have many fond memories with him growing up. Dennis remembers climbing Seven Falls with his father. Colleen remembers him taking time out of his busy schedule several days in a row to help her sand, paint, and shellac her art project until it was perfect. Barbara remembers as a teenager playing basketball with her father and that he was a great guard.

Richard was preceded in death by his Wife Winifred (Allen) Martin, his brother Merlin Martin, his wife Mildred Martin, his sister Juanita (Martin) Moore, her husband Paul Moore, father Richard A Martin, mother Alma (Printy) Martin, 3 unborn children, and son-in-law Jerry Wright.

Richard leaves behind to cherish his loving memory his son Dennis Martin, daughter-in-law Beverly (Griswold) Martin, their 4 children Michael, David, Matthew and Stephen Martin and 12 great grandchildren; his daughter Colleen (Martin) Gwinn, son-in-law Roger Gwinn, their 2 children Richard Gwinn and April (Gwinn) Brown and 5 great grandchildren; his daughter Barbara (Martin) Wright her children Amy Wright, Melissa (Wright) Connor and Jennifer (Wright) Kannenberg and 6 great grandchildren. Richard was very loving and dedicated to all of his family.

Althea Jean Cooper Obituary

Aletha Jean Cooper, known to all as Jean, passed away July 31, 2016, at the age of 89, in her home at Brookdale Senior Living in Rockford, Illinois.

Jean was born October 12, 1926, in Russell, Iowa to Carl Thomas Goltry and Stella Mae (Moore) Goltry. She grew up on the Goltry Century Farm just east of Russell, Iowa. She spent a lot of time helping her mother Stella in the kitchen on the farm and helping keep her brother and cousins in line. She graduated from Russell High School in 1944. 

Jean was a school teacher for over 40 years. She was very passionate about teaching and loved to be around kids. She had her first teaching assignment at Victory country school in Russell, Iowa. She taught at a few other country schools in rural southern Iowa. In fact, school is where she met and then married the love of her life, James “Jim” Cooper on May 28, 1949. They were blessed to celebrate over 64 years together. After they were married, Jean attended Drake University during the summers to obtain her teaching degree and then began teaching in public school. In the fall of 1954 her son James Thomas was born.

Her longest teaching post was at Van Allen Elementary in Chariton, Iowa, where she taught 3rd and 5th grades from 1965 to 1987. In 1987 she retired from teaching and went to work with her husband at the Iowa State House of Representatives in Des Moines, Iowa while he was serving as Representative for District 67. Jean was a member of the Retired Teachers Association, Order of the Eastern Star, American Legion Auxiliary since 1953, and Russell Faith United Methodist Church.

Jim and Jean were avid campers. They joined the Red Haw Campers in 1980 and enjoyed many camping trips including all the good times they had spent camping and working at the Iowa State Fair. They also enjoyed travelling and spent many winters in Apache Junction, Arizona.

Survived by daughter-in-law Carolyn Komar, granddaughter Evin (Charles) Thomas, great grandchildren Taya Thomas, Rahmel Thomas and Mason Thomas, sisters-in-law Bonnie Gerry, Mary Jo Polo and Eva Cooper; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, husband James W. Cooper, son James Thomas Cooper, brother Duane M. Goltry, infant brother Harold D. Goltry; as well as a host of in-laws, cousins, aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Russell Faith United Methodist Church or Russell (Iowa) Historical Society in Russell, Iowa.

The family would like to thank all the medical professionals and staff at Brookdale Senior Living and with Heartland Hospice in Rockford, Illinois who cared for Jean and supported her family during her passing. A very special thank you to Jean’s nieces Lisa Goltry Konig and Linda Goltry Secor for all the time spent visiting her in Rockford, Illinois and especially coming out to be with us during her last days.

Burial

Mon., Aug. 08, 2016

Location: Russell Cemetery

Funeral Service

10:30 AM Mon., Aug. 08, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Clyde LaVerne Hoover Obituary

Clyde LaVerne Hoover 78, passed away at Legacy Lodge in Chariton, Iowa on July 29, 2016. He was born the seventh child of John and Florence Hoover in Lucas County, Iowa September 20, 1937. He lived his life around Lucas county mostly.

He became a really good carpenter built about everything from houses, garages, decks and room additions, and also worked on automobiles in his spare time. When health got going downhill he moved to Russell to be near his brother Ronald Hoover. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him 

Surviving are his brothers Ronald (Barbara) Hoover of Russell, Iowa, John (Barbara) Haugland of Solon, Iowa, Doyle (Janet) Hoover of Chariton, Iowa, Kenneth Hoover of Indianola, Iowa. Sisters Vivian Shrader (friend Dan) of Warsaw, Missouri, Betty Bassett of Knoxville, Loretta Calleson (friend Rick) of Derby, Iowa and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Clyde is preceded in death by infant son, his parents John and Florence Hoover, brother Keith, sister Sandra, Shirley and his dog Cindy. 

Clyde LaVerne Hoover

Born: Mon., Sep. 20, 1937

Died: Fri., Jul. 29, 2016

Visitation

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Mon., Aug. 01, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service

1:30 PM Tue., Aug. 02, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Mary Nolte Obituary

Mary L. Nolte, 85, passed away July 12, 2016 at Chariton Specialty Care, Care Initiatives in Chariton, Iowa.

Mary Louise (Sellers) Nolte was born September 11, 1930 to Everette and Cora May (Sims) Sellers. She was the only girl, with 6 brothers. 

Mary graduated from Kanawha High School in 1948. She married Bernard Nolte on June 19, 1949. To this marriage were born 2 daughters, Mary Ann (Nolte) Tupper and June Marie Nolte-Davis. Mary was a stay at home mom until after June started school. Then, she worked in the school kitchen in Goodell up until the time that it closed.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband Bernard; parents Everette and Cora; brothers Virgil, Donald, Burdette, Herbert, and Robert; son in law Gerald (Jerry) Edward Tupper; grandsons Gerald Don Tupper Sr., and Christopher Allen Tupper; and great grandson Daniel Owen Tupper. 

She is survived by one brother, Carl Sellers, Gerry, New York, her daughters: Mary Ann Tupper, Alden, Iowa and June (Buddy) Davis, Humeston, Iowa, grandson Ben (Deb) Tupper, Granddaughter Annie (Dwight Moser) Davis; Great Grandchildren , Kiya (Aaron) Peterson, Hollie, Kodie, and Jenna Tupper, Chloe Miller, Allison Moser, and C.J. Kint, Gerald Don (Nicole) Tupper Jr., David (Heather) Tupper, Kevin (Jenna) Tupper, Paul (Stacy) Tupper, 16 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Patty Deemer Obituary

Patty L. Deemer, 82, passed away on July 9, 2016 at Legacy Lodge in Chariton. Patty was born on October 29, 1933 in Afton, Iowa to Marion and Lily Rice Overton. 

Patty married Clarence "Bud" Deemer on February 1, 1950 in Osceola, IA. They began their married life on Bud's parent's farm in Van Wert, Iowa. In 1954 they moved to a farm in Derby. 

They lived on two different rented farms in the Derby area before settling on the farm south of Russell in 1966 where she lived until 2006 when she moved to the town of Russell. 

Patty and Bud had three children - Shirley, Randy, and Tracy. 

Patty was a devoted farm wife, faithful daughter and sister, and a loving mother and grandmother throughout her life. If she became friends with someone she was their friend for life and loyal to the end. She was a born-again Christian and was grounded in her faith and the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. 

She had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. She enjoyed working in her garden and flower beds and took a great deal of pride in keeping her yard looking nice. She really missed her yard work when she was unable to do it in later years. She took up crocheting as a hobby and made numerous gifts such as afghans and slippers. 

Her family was very important to her. She enjoyed having phone conversations with her children and other family members. She always enjoyed it when someone came to visit. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and was very proud of them. Visits from them were especially precious to her. She loved visiting with them and hearing about their daily lives and perhaps offering a bit of wise advice when needed. 

She was referred to affectionately as Aunt Patty by numerous nieces and nephews with some of them stating she was like a second mother to them. 

She was a very sweet and special person to all whose lives were touched by her and will be greatly missed. 

Patty is survived by her daughter Shirley (Richard) Sibert of Russell, Iowa; son Tracy (Laura) Deemer of Lacona, Iowa; daughter-in-law Cindi (Randy) Deemer; brother Charlie (Pat) Overton of Baxter, Iowa; grandchildren Shannon Sibert, Desiree (Gary) Hundley, Darcie (Larry) Russell, Faith Sibert, Hope Sibert, Sara Sibert, Tyler Deemer, T.J. (Malaya) Deemer, Matt Baldwin, Dylan Deemer, Kelly (Dave) Pollard and 13 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandkids and many nieces and nephews. 

Patty was preceded in death by her father Marion Overton, mother Lily Rice Overton, husband, Clarence "Bud" Deemer, sister Donna Houck, and son Randy Deemer. 

Ronald Arthur Braselton Obituary

Ronald Arthur Braselton of Russell, formerly of Blue Ridge, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on June 27, 2016 at the age of 65.

A Service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Cornerstone Community Church in Chariton. Family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00. His son-in-law, Pastor Paul Miller, will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cornerstone Community Church Building Fund.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Libby. He is survived by his daughter, Brandy (Pastor Paul) Miller of Chariton; sister, Janet (Ed) DeLise of Jupiter, Florida; and 5 grandchildren: Laura, Paul Robert, John David, Luke, and Sarah Beth.

Jeanette Thompson Obituary

M. Jeanette Thompson, of Russell, passed away on June 21, 2016 at the age of 87.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, July 16, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church in Russell. Family will receive friends on Friday, July 15, 2016 from 5:00 until 7:0

0 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Interment will be at the Russell Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jeanette's honor to Faith United Methodist Church in Russell or the Russell Historical Museum and Library.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Virginia Cisna; and her husband of 62 years, Dean Thompson. She is survived by her sons, Ron (Robin) Thompson of Russell and Paul (Mary) Thompson of Phoenix, AZ; 5 grandchildren: Tracey Adolphi, Tucker (Amy) Thompson, Alysha (Danny Ranf) Thompson, Nicholas Thompson, and Peter (Stacy) Lopez; 5 great grandsons: Bryon Lopez, Cullen Adolphi, Conner Adolphi, Cooper Adolphi, and Calvin Thompson; 4 great granddaughters: Elexis Lopez, Hayleigh Ranf, Sophia Thompson, and Lyla Thompson; sister, Pat Blue of Chariton; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Carol "Pudge" Prough Obituary

It is with deep, and heavy sadness that we announce the death of Carol "Pudge" Prough, of Chariton, Iowa. He passed away June 5, 2016 at Circle of Life/Legacy Lodge Hospice at the age of 78.

Carol Dean Prough, third child of Merlin and Mildred Prough was born December 10, 1937 in Lucas County. He lived briefly in Russell before moving to Chariton.

On November 10, 1956 he married Kathryn Shrader, they were blessed with three children. Marla, Kurt and Linn.

In July 1959 Pudge started as a truck driver for Hy-Vee until his retirement in January of 1999. He received a tremendous achievement as the second driver to be awarded “The Road of Gold” award for driving one million miles accident free in 1995.

Marla, Kurt and Linn were honored to call him “Dad”. He loved spending time with his family. He was a very proud Father and Grandfather.

Pudge was preceded in death by his parents, Merlin and Mildred Prough; sister, Joyce Anderson; and brother, Gail Prough.

He is survived by his brother, Paul Prough (Connie); daughter, Marla McGinn (Mike), and grandchildren, Matt McGinn (Elizabeth) and Maggie Byrne (James); son, Kurt Prough (Julie), grandaughter, Aimee Keith and great grandchildren: Tanner, Abryana, and Sophia; grandson, Andy Peterson (Sarah) and great grandchildren, Addison and Kenadee; granddaughter, Kira Bartlemus (Mark) and great grandchildren: Devon, Hawk, and Ryker; and grandson Riley Prough (Emily); son, Linn Prough (Lorrie), grandson, Adam Prough (Ashley); and granddaughter, Stacy Klug (Karl) and great grandchildren, Rylan and Cora.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, June 13, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends on Sunday, June 12, 2016 from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Chariton Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Circle of Life/Legacy Lodge Hospice in Chariton.

Beverly Ann Werts Obituary

 Graveside services for Beverly Werts, 84, of Russell will be Thursday, April 14, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at the Russell Cemetery. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to the Russell Baptist Church or to the Russell First Responders.

Beverly Ann Pierce was born November 15, 1931 to John and Fern Pierce in Chariton, Iowa. Beverly and her brothers, Gene and Donald, grew up in Lucas County and attended country school. Beverly graduated from Russell High School in 1950. 

On September 5, 1952, Beverly was united in marriage to James “Jim” Werts. While Jim served in the Air Force, Bev worked at the “dime store” in Chariton. The couple was blessed with three daughters: Wendy, Terry and Cindy. Bev worked various jobs in the area. She helped on the farm, worked as a clerk at the Chariton Sale Barn, and worked at Vera’s Drugstore in Russell. Bev bought the drugstore in 1981. She enjoyed being a store owner and spent her days there until she closed the store in 1994.

Bev enjoyed reading, jigsaw puzzles, word finds, crossword puzzles, sewing, antiquing and collecting. She loved setting up antique consignment booths at various events in Ottumwa, Brooklyn and Des Moines. She was a great cook, famous for her fried chicken and potato salad. Above all, Bev enjoyed time spent with her family. She was blessed with nine grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren. 

Beverly passed away April 10, 2016. Preceding her in death were her parents: John and Fern Pierce; husband, Jim Werts; brother, Gene (Linda) Pierce; and great grandson, Max Sander. Surviving are her daughters: Wendy (Dan) Blue, Terry (Rick) Elmore, and Cindy (Robert) Smith; 9 grandchildren: Jeremy, Jenny, Jamie, Kelly, Conrad, Kayla, Jason, Juston, and Jordon; 22 great grandchildren; brother, Donald (Carolyn) Pierce; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Greg Allen Norris Obituary

Gregory Allen Norris was born January 16, 1963 in Winterset, Iowa. He was the 4th child born to Harold E. and Darlene Crane Norris. Gregg spent his childhood in Russell, Iowa graduating in the class of 1981. 

On September 23, 1989, he married his high school sweetheart, Vicki Benedict. They had one child, Crystal Dawn. The family moved to Chariton in 1992. 

Gregg’s passion was playing the drums. He began playing a trumpet, but didn’t have enough wind to blow the thing. His music teacher suggested drums and that was it. Many can remember him playing in jazz band, pep band, The Norris Brothers and Sister Shell, and many rock bands such as Tyrant, Monsoon, Straight Shooter, Liquid Sunshine, Cylinder, AzIs (as is), and others when a fantastic drummer was needed. Mostly, he will be remembered for his years with ZEF. 

Gregg was preceded in death by his parents, Harold E. and Darlene Crane Norris. Gregg is survived by his wife Vicki; daughter Crystal (Phil Starr); grandchildren Hannah, Hayleigh, and Hunter Starr; siblings Glenn (Tiffinny) Norris, George (Jan) Norris, and Shelley (Phil) Mason; sisters-in-law Davette (Dave) Jurgenson, Claudia Lillibridge (Larry Rice), and Tanya Moriarty (Dave Spalding); parents-in-law Dave and DeAnn Moriarty; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Born: Wed., Jan. 16, 1963
Died: Wed., Mar. 23, 2016

Visitation
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Mon., Mar. 28, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service
10:30 AM Tue., Mar. 29, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Paul Howard Smith Obituary

Paul Howard Smith, 88, went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 23, 2016. 

Paul was born to Howard and Grace (Drake) Smith on October 19, 1927 at home in Russell, Iowa. His siblings include Eugene Smith and Margaret Smith Danner. 

Paul grew up in Russell, Iowa, living across from the school. He graduated from Russell High School in 1945. He played on the varsity basketball team, a game he would enjoy his entire life, and was a saxophonist in the High School Band. On graduation, he went to work for the CB&Q railroad in the signal division for a short time entering the United States Army. He served as an engineer in signals in Tokyo, Japan at General Headquarters. He was promoted to Cryptography as a Sergeant(T4) sending and receiving coded messages for General McArthur to bases around the globe. He was honorably discharged in 1947 and returned home. He worked again in the CB&Q Railroad until entering Simpson College in 1948. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, graduating in February 1952 with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration. He joined the John Morrell Company on graduation. June 8, 1952 he married Clarice Mae Dixon, which he says made him the luckiest man alive. They lived and worked side by side until his death. Paul and Clarice traveled for six months working for the John Morrell Company settling in Red Oak, Iowa when assigned a permanent territory. Then they relocated to Des Moines where Gregory Paul was born in 1954. Paul resigned from John Morrell in 1955 to join in a farming partnership with his father-in-law, Allen Dixon. That became the family home and in Paul’s words, “the best business deal I ever made.” After two years on the farm, Dixie Ann was born in 1957 at the Wayne County Hospital. 

Paul was a progressive farmer using technology and new ideas to further the success of the farm. He was an early adopter if diesel tractors, self-propelled combines, grinder-mixers, air planters, grain bins, hog nursery and production buildings, radio then cellular communications, and the use of personal computers. He cross-bred hogs and cattle to maximize growth and profit, but favored Hereford cattle and German Shepherd dogs, especially one named King. 

Paul’s friendly and fun nature along with his unshakable integrity made him lifelong friends in high school, the United States Army, college, church, and the community. He was a good neighbor, always willing to help another in need. He was a loving and dedicated husband and father and the favorite of his relatives. Stories of his youth were the highlight of many family dinners. Paul’s circle of friends expanded when they traveled in the winter months as his farming career was winding down. They enjoyed meeting new couples and sharing fun times together. 

Paul was a long time active member of the New Providence Baptist Church. He loved his church family and served as a Treasurer, Deacon, Youth Leader, and a Sunday School Teacher. He was particularly proud of the new church building constructed in 1981. He eagerly practiced and shared his faith even while hospitalized. 

For all of Paul’s experiences and accomplishments, he was most proud of his family. His son, his daughter and their four daughters gave him so much joy as he watched them grow and become young ladies, three of them now with families of their own. Even in his last days, he talked often about the importance of a loving family. He was a very proud father, grandpa, and great-grandpa. Paul will be deeply missed, but he will be remembered for the way he lived his life. 

He is survived by his wife of 63 years Clarice Mae Smith; his son, Gregory and daughter-in-law Catherine; his daughter, Dixie and son-in-law Dave Daughton, his grandchildren, Ginger Morrison and husband Will, Amber Rodgers and husband Devin, Julie Kazanowski and husband Nick, and Sabrina Smith. His great grandchildren are Donald Morrison, Dagny Morrison, Lela Morrison, Alley Rodgers, Lennox Paul Rodgers and Goldie Mae Kazanowski. Others close to him are his sister Margaret Danner, sister-in-law Emma Warrick and husband Max, nieces, nephew and a host of friends.

Born: Wed., Oct. 19, 1927

Died: Wed., Mar. 23, 2016

Visitation

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Fri., Mar. 25, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Funeral Service

2:00 PM Sat., Mar. 26, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

H.D. "Jake" DeBok Obituary

Born: Sat., Jan. 10, 1925

Died: Mon., Mar. 14, 2016

Visitation

11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, Fri., Mar. 18, 2016

Location: Fielding Funeral Home

Graveside Service

1:00 PM Sat., Mar. 19, 2016

Location: Bethel Cemetery

Jake was a quiet man. One of" America’s Greatest Generation". He was a jack of all trades. A man in constant motion. He was a life insurance salesman, spending 50 years with the Kansas City Life Insurance company. If you had a sheep to shear he was there. He sheared his last sheep at age 80, probably just to show off. He was a substitute school teacher and Sunday School teacher. He spent time as a grave digger. He built, with some help of his wife, a large home in the country where the family lived for over 30 years. When the kids were older they would ask “What do you want to be when you grow up Daddy?” There was never a definitive answer. 

He was very proud to have served his country in Germany during World War II. He was an avid reader of non-fiction, primarily History, being far more concerned with what had really happened as opposed to what might have happened. 

He had an adventurous “Johnny Appleseed” spirit, always interested in what lay beyond the next hill. Whether it be traveling the United States with a sheep shearing crew, or traveling with his family throughout the world. 

Always athletic and in good shape. In his younger days he loved to dance. 

While travel was important and fun, he loved to be at home. His flower garden was his pride and joy. He spent countless hours tending his flowers, weather permitting or not. Every spring Jake would make precise preparations to insure his “purple martins” would return home each April. His numerous matchstick monuments were a witness to his patience and perseverance. His legendary utility cart and pontoon is a testament to his resourcefulness and perhaps whimsy. 

Jake was a loving husband, a dutiful son, a loyal brother, a supportive father, an attentive grandfather, and an adoring great-grandfather. He was a loyal and trusted friend. 

He was very mindful these past few precious years that he was “living on borrowed time” in that he had survived war, cancer, knee replacements, assorted broken bones, surgeries and a broken neck. Conditions that many others, not so fortunate, had not survived. He often said he lived a full and blessed life, never taking his good fortune or longevity for granted. 

He was a gentle man with a kind spirit. He lived and died purposefully, quietly and peacefully. Those of us who love him will miss this quiet man beyond measure. 

God Speed, Good and faithful servant. 

Herbert Dale (Jake) DeBok was born to Herman and Bernice (Robuck) DeBok on January 10, 1925 in Russell, Iowa. He passed away suddenly, March 14, 2016 in Mesa, Arizona. Jake attended Russell High School, Graduated from Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa and served as an Army Sergeant in combat in Germany during WWII. Jake married Donna Woodman on August 7, 1949. He built a home on 5 acres of land adjacent to Colyn Area south of Russell where he and Donna raised their children, Terry and Nick. They resided there until his retirement when relocating to West Lake. Jake enjoyed many hobbies, gardening, reading, and travel. He especially enjoyed time spent with his three grandsons and nine Great Grandchildren. Jake was Elder Emeritus of the Disciples of Christ Church in Chariton. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Roger. 

Jake is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter, Terry (Laurie), son Nick; Grandsons, Marc, Matthew and Andrew (Jessica); Great Grandchildren: Audrey, Ian, Eli, Christian, Jacob, Aiden, Olivia, Deidra and Kamryn; Sisters, Lucille Susic, Ellen Hawkins, Gerry Fitzgerald; Brother, Charles (Jo): In-laws, Marjorie DeBok, Tommy Woodman (Carole), Byron Voss, and many nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Disciples of Christ Church, Chariton, Iowa or the Russell Chapter of the American Legion. 

Margaret Irene (Madison) Rynearson

Margaret Irene (Madison) Rynearson passed away March 2, 2016 at her home near Russell, Iowa. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A private burial will take place at a later date at the Berwick Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Margaret’s family or Circle of Life Hospice in Chariton. 

Margaret Irene Madison was born December 9, 1936 to Margaret Ann and Henry Earl Madison. She grew up alongside her six siblings near Madrid, Iowa. Margaret graduated from Madrid High School. After graduation, she worked for a time in Des Moines. 

On January 21, 1956, Margaret was united in marriage to Don Rynearson. The couple was blessed with two children, Mike and Pam. The family farmed in Granger, Madrid and Waukee. After their children were raised, Margaret and Don settled on a farm south of Russell, Iowa. During this time, Margaret worked in the medical billing office at Lucas County Health Center. She retired after twenty one years. 

Margaret was a great help on the farm. She harvested large, bountiful gardens and would freeze fruits and vegetables each year. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her cat, Lucy. She will be greatly missed by so many.

Margaret is survived by her husband of 60 years, Don Rynearson of Russell; son, Mike Rynearson (Sue) of Norwalk; daughter, Pam Venard (Mark) of Waukee; 5 grandchildren: Jennifer Waldrop (Greg), Rachel Venard (Eric), Heather Chatton (Scott), Amber Polson (Charlie), and Jeff Hines (Christa); 9 great-grandchildren: Sully, Ella, Hailey, Chloe, Sophie, Gina, Gage, Ava, and Fern; sisters, Louise Baier (Leo) and Cathy Williams; and sisters-in-law, Gwen Madison and Lorraine Madison. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Theresa Madison and Rose Marie Lamfers; brother, Richard Madison; and twin brother, Melvin Madison.