Kenneth Lyle Mumford Obituary

 

Kenneth Lyle Mumford, 83, passed away on June 3, 2025, in Chariton, Iowa, with his loving family by his side. A graveside funeral service with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Oakley. A luncheon will follow services at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton.

Kenneth was born in Des Moines, Iowa on April 6, 1942, to Kenneth and Inita (Rohrer) Mumford. He grew up in Des Moines and attended North High School. In 1959, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Kenneth served with honor until 1965, demonstrating the dedication and strength that would define the rest of his life.

On November 2, 1974, Kenneth married the love of his life, Judith Housman, in Princeton, Missouri. Their marriage was one of deep devotion, friendship, and shared adventures, including seventeen winters spent together in Texas. Kenneth worked for Hy-Vee for 37 years, first as a truck driver and later in the warehouse. He was a hard worker and a dependable presence to all who knew him. He loved the outdoors — camping, fishing, gardening, and canning the fruits of his labor. He never missed a good boxing match and was always up for a game of cards with friends. Kenneth had a playful spirit, ornery in the most lovable way, always teasing and joking. You always knew when he was in the room.

Kenneth was a kind and generous soul. He was a member of Brushy Community Church, and in 2008, he accepted the Lord into his life and was baptized. He and Judy later attended Russell Baptist Church as well as Grace Baptist Church in Chariton, where they continued to grow in faith and community.

Kenneth leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith. He will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the deep love for his family. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Judy Mumford; children: Larry Todd Mumford, Mari Kenna Mumford-Sloan, Douglas Brian (Karla) Noah, Angela Jo Noah, and Jeffrey Donald Noah; siblings: Donna Mae Eide, Karen Viers, Cindy (Gary) Main, and Gary Dean Mumford; fifteen grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, and many loving extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers in-law, Kermit Viers and Joe Eide.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Kenneth’s family to be used for causes to further enrich the lives of others in the community.

“The memories we shared are like the stars of the night sky, guiding me through the journey of grief.”

Wayne King Obituary April 30, 1949 - March 21, 2025

 

Wayne Dean King born April 30, 1949, in Chariton, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Houston Methodist Hospital in Conroe, Texas. There will be a celebration of life on June 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Pierschbacher's in Knoxville, Iowa. We invite you to share memories, laughter, and stories that honor Wayne's remarkable journey. A light lunch will be served as we come together to remember the warmth, kindness, and joy he brought to our lives.

A proud alumnus of Knoxville High School’s class of 1968, Wayne went on to earn an Associate Degree in Telecommunications from Des Moines Area Community College. His career in telecommunications spanned decades, with roles at Continental Telephone in Iowa before advancing to Regional Engineer positions in Minnesota with Contel Telephone, and later in Dallas, Texas with GTE and Verizon . Wayne pursued his passion to work with his hands as a self-employed handyman after leaving the telecommunications industry.

In 1969, Wayne married Suzanne Mills, and together they were blessed with four children. He treasured his roles as father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, E. Keith and Lucinda (James) King; his beloved wife, Suzanne; and his brothers, David and Jay.

Wayne is survived by his children Kari Ann (Ramiro) King-Barron, Matthew James (Wendi) King, Alicia Nicole King, and Jennifer Sue King; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brothers Kenneth, Rex, and Michael; sisters Kay King and Linda Whitt; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Connie Smith Obituary October 16, 1936 - May 15, 2025

 Connie M. Smith, 88, of Chariton, passed away May 15, 2025, at the Lucas County Health Center. Graveside funeral services will be held Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Salem Cemetery near Chariton.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, May 17th, from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Memorials may be made to the Faith United Methodist Church in Russell.

Connie was born October 16, 1936, in Knoxville, Iowa, to Merle and Kathleen May. The family moved to Chariton in 1943 when her parents purchased the home farm in Benton township where she raised her family and lived most of her life. Connie and her sister, Karen, would walk 1.3 miles to school at Salem through the 8th grade. She then attended Chariton High School later graduating in 1955.

Out of high school she began working for the ASCS office known today as the FSA office. Connie worked for the FSA off and on in various capacities throughout the years.

In 1957, Connie married Willard Burdette “W.B.” Smith. As part of their wedding gift, they received two bred gilts and a Guernsey heifer. They began their farming career when they rented 40 acres, then purchased 80 in 1960, before moving back to their home place. Connie was a hard worker; she worked on and off the farm in addition to raising their boys – Dennis and Doyle. They had 600 hens and milked many cows, but suddenly went unpaid for 6 weeks. They then transitioned out of the hens and milk cows to farrow to finish hogs and beef cows along with some ewes. She always worked side by side with her husband and eventually with the boys and grandchildren. She remembered square baling hay in the beginning times, and remembered all the hand jesters while she was running the baler. She thought the big round baler was one of the best inventions.

Connie worked for several of the sale barns including the Knoxville Sale Barn and the Russell Sale Barn. She always wanted to stay busy and would volunteer some free time to the Genealogy Society at the Chariton Library. She also enjoyed bowling and taking a few trips when you could get her away from the farm.

Family meant a lot to Connie. Not only was she blessed with two great boys but they returned the favor and gave her many grandchildren (and later, great grandchildren) to love. Her greatest pride in life was her hardworking family. From the farm to academics, she had a lot to be proud of. You could always count on Connie’s family to bring out her great sense of humor and her kind heart; two things she will always be remembered for.

Preceding her in death were her parents: Merle and Kathleen May; husband, W.B. Smith in 1996; and infant daughter, Linda Marie. She will be greatly missed by her sons: Dennis (Lisa) Smith and Doyle (Stacy) Smith; grandchildren: Brad (Kelsey) Smith, Chad (Mandy) Smith, Bailey (Jared) Dudley, Brittney (Steven) Slezak, and Macy Smith; seven great grandchildren: Ledger, McKabe, Jace, Ruger, Henry, Tate, and Colt; sister, Karen Stansbery; sister-in-law, Ruth (Don) Argentia; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Russell Harris Obituary October 11, 1941 - May 10, 2025

 

Russell Dean Harris, 83, of Bloomfield, Iowa passed away on May 10, 2025 at his home surrounded by family. He was born on October 11, 1941 in a farmhouse in Lancaster, Missouri to Lowell and Mary Howell Harris. At the age of 17 he joined the U.S. Navy in August of 1959. He retired on June 15, 1979 after serving 20 years. During his 20 years he served at many duty stations including Lakehurst Naval Air Station in Lakehurst, New Jersey where he met Joann Cook. The couple married on October 20, 1962 at the Chapel of the Air. Russell was also stationed at a small Navy base in Edzell, Scotland, Suitland Weather Forecast Office in Suitland, Maryland; NSA in Washington, D.C.; Fort Meade, Maryland; Phu Bai, Vietnam; the USS Midway; and Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois during his career. Russell was able to see many countries while he was in the Navy such as Singapore, Philippines, Hong Kong, Korea, and Japan.

After his Navy retirement, Russell worked at the Gilfillan Clinic in Bloomfield for several months before purchasing French’s Hamburger Inn in November 1979. Russell and Joann ran the popular Bloomfield restaurant for 13 years. Russell would go on to attend Indian Hills Community College receiving his associates degree and then attended Faith Baptist Bible College, graduating with a degree in Pastoral Studies, Greek, and counseling. From May 2000 until September 2007, he served as pastor of Norwoodville Baptist Church in Des Moines. From February of 2008 until March of 2013, he served as pastor for the First Baptist Church in Russell, Iowa. After returning to Bloomfield in April of 2014 he served on the Deacon Board at First Baptist Church and helped with the Whirlybirds after school program.

Russell’s moto was “Love of country, love of God, and love of family.” He was a proud American Veteran. Russell loved Jesus. He wanted to make sure everyone he came in contact with went to church and knew the Lord. His love of family was beyond measure. He taught his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the value of hard work and commitment. “You just gotta do what you gotta do!” Russell taught the great grandchildren how to blow empty straw wrappers across the dinner table, how to fish, and how to have fun. He was always up for a game of 10-point pitch and he almost always had a bidding hand!

Russell was very talented in many aspects. He loved all areas of arts and crafts. He was truly an artist. Russell and Joann have several paintings and drawings framed and hanging in their home that were done by him as well as several ceramic pieces. He was an avid wood worker, making a hope chests for his daughters, the cradle that his grandsons slept in, a gun case for his brother-in-law, plus many other projects around the house and for his family.

Later in life, Russell and Joann took many trips out east to see his brother, Joe and his wife, Mary. He would also visit his sister-in-law, Irma and brother-in-law, Frank, as well as his nieces and nephews. He cherished all his family and those fun days together.

Russell is survived by his wife, Joann Harris; two daughters, Denice Blaine of Kirksville, Missouri, Loretta “Lori” (Tanner Young) Taylor of St. Charles, Minnesota; four grandchildren, Luke (Nichole) Taylor of Blue Earth, Minnesota, Clint (Hanna) Taylor of St. Charles, Minnesota, Teagan Young of St. Charles, Minnesota, Deidre Blaine of Kirksville, Missouri; seven great-grandchildren, Jace Taylor, Jaxon Stricklen, Sophie Stricklen, Triggs Taylor, William Taylor, James Taylor, Berit Taylor; brother, Danny “Joe” (Mary) Harris of South Attleboro, Massachusetts; sister, Cathy Reinier of Ottumwa, Iowa; sister-in-law, Ruth (Dave) Brown of Rougemont, North Carolina; brother-in-law, Ray (Lisa) Cook of Drakesville, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, William Neal; two brothers, Francis and Billy Lee Harris; two sisters, Becky Ann Harris, Mary Beth Collier; three sisters-in-law, Irma Rios, Nancy Harris, Carole Raskie; one brother-in-law Frank Rios, and a son-in-law, Jeffrey Taylor.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at the First Baptist Church in Bloomfield with Pastor Matt Froah officiating. Burial will be at the West Grove Cemetery in West Grove, Iowa. Graveside military rites will be performed by Reed-Whisler Post #78 of the American Legion. Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be from 5-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening at the First Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be designated at a later date. Wagler Funeral Home in Bloomfield, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Visitation -

MAY 14. 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (CT)

First Baptist Church

401 Crestview Circle

Bloomfield, IA 52537

Funeral Service

MAY 15. 10:00 AM (CT)

First Baptist Church

401 Crestview Circle

Bloomfield, IA 52537

Dennis Linville Obituary January 28, 1962 - April 13, 2025

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Dennis Linville, 63, of Chariton, passed away at home on Sunday, April 13, 2025. A service with sharing of memories will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 17th at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton; followed by a celebration of life visitation until 6:00 p.m. Burial will follow at the Confidence Cemetery. Dennis would probably like you to wear a gray t-shirt and jeans, he would want things to be casual without much fuss.

Dennis Richard Linville was born January 28, 1962, to Richard and Marie Linville. He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in 1980. He was married to his high school sweetheart Lesha Leck in 1980. Dennis and Lesha were blessed with five children: Holly, David, Aaron, Jeremy, and Kitt. Dennis farmed with his father and on his own for several years. He also worked for the Chariton Municipal Water Department for over 30 years, retiring 8 years ago.

Dennis loved the outdoors and his property out in the country. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, trapping, and working in the garden. He was a pretty good cook and enjoyed baking. He would often say he was going out to tinker, which meant he would grab a smoke, and go work on one of his old cars or grab a beer and mow the yard. He also enjoyed old westerns and TV shows like Gilligan’s Island and The Beverly Hillbillies, often watching them with his grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in care of Dennis' family and will be designated at a later date.

Dennis will be missed by his ex-wife, Lesha Linville; children: Holly (Jaime) Maldonado, David Linville, Aaron (Crystal) Linville, Jeremy Linville, and Kitt Linville; grandchildren: Katelynn, Jaime Jr., Izabellah, and Daniel; sisters: Marcie (Dennis) Slack and Rhonda (Mark) White; along with many relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Richard and Marie Linville; brother, Bruce Linville; and granddaughter, Lilyanna and nephew, Christopher Stone.3, 2025

Geneva Mae Bequette Obituary

Geneva Mae (Duer) Bequette went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 11, 2025. She was born to Neva Pearl (Holder) Duer and Chester William Duer on February 5, 1937, in Confidence, Iowa. She had two sisters, Nancy and Patty, and two brothers, Bill and Tom. The family moved several times and settled on a farm near Melrose, Iowa. She attended Russell High School. Then she worked in Des Moines, Iowa. In 1962, she moved to California where she met Lindell and getting married on April 11, 1964. When she was eleven, she accepted Christ as her Savior and baptized on Easter Sunday at the age of twelve. She has a step-daughter, Christina Bequette (husband is Michael Kemp). She has two daughters, Cynthia Markle (Todd) and Bonnie Porter (Glen). She has two sons, Dennis (Pauline) Bequette and Thomas Ellion. In January 1967 they bought a farm in Iowa across from her parents raising cattle. She loved working along side of Lindell. She loved gardening, flowers and quilting. In 1972 they moved to Arkansas where Lindell sold real estate and trucking. She went with Lindell in the truck whenever possible. She was active in the Baptist Church helping with Act Teens and Awana. Also she hosted the girls in her home for church activities. In 2000 they moved to Monahans, Texas. While living there, they loved traveling in their various trailers. While able to, she took care of the flower bed at Southside Baptist Church. She moved to Ankeny, Iowa, in November 2024 to be close to her sister, Patty. She is survived by her sister, Patty Duer, and sister-in-laws Carol Duer and Sally Duer. She leaves granddaughters Casey DeBell (Tony) and Amanda Markle; and grandsons Jesse Bequette, Josh Markle (Chelsea) and Robert Ellion (Natashi); several great grandchildren-Finley, Hudson, and Bowie Markle; Alex, Owen, Emmett and Cooper Ellion; Dani DeBell, Jenah and Taylor Bequette. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brothers Bill and Tom, her sister Nancy, her sons Dennis and Thomas. In lieu of flowers, she would like donations to go the following: Community Baptist Church, Ankeny, Iowa; Cornerstone Baptist Church, Ankeny, Iowa; Faith Baptist Bible College, Ankeny, Iowa; Gideon Bibles or Southside Baptist Church, Monahans, Texas. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Harkey Funeral Home in Monahans, Texas with visitation on April 11 from 5-8 p.m. The funeral will be at Southside Baptist Church in Monahans, Texas on April 12 at 11 a.m. There will be a memorial service on May 3 and 3 p.m. at Community Baptist Church, Ankeny, Iowa. funeral-home-logo funeral-home-logo

Diane DeBok October 18, 1943 - March 30, 2025 Obituary

Diane DeBok, 81, passed away on March 30, 2025, in Chariton, Iowa. The family will greet guests from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. Diane will be interred in Chariton Cemetery following services.

Diane was born in Chariton on October 18, 1943, to Lowell and Elaine (Marks) Baughman. In 1961, she graduated from Chariton High School and later retired from Wells Fargo. She had a deep love for nature, finding joy in her garden where she could often be found “digging in the dirt.” Her flowers were her pride and joy, and she delighted in the company of hummingbirds and butterflies that visited her blooms. She shared her home with her beloved cats, Gabe and Ellie, who brought her endless comfort and companionship.

Diane is survived by her children: Brad (Shari) DeBok, Darrin DeBok, their father Pete DeBok; grandchildren: Taylor DeBok, Ally DeBok, Hannah DeBok, Ava DeBok, and Dominic Messina; brother, Bob Baughman; brother in-law, Warren Wallace; and niece : Carolyn Elam.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Patricia Wallace and nephew Merlin Wallace.

 

Theodore Allen Hansen December 26, 1955 – March 26, 2025

 Theodore Allen Hansen, age 69, of Valrico, Florida passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

Page Mitteness March 1, 1958 - March 25, 2025 Obituary

 Elisabeth Page Mitteness (Page) was born on March 1, 1958, in Thief River Falls, MN, to Harold and Eleanor Olson. She spent her early childhood in St. Cloud, MN, where she began her love for animals, training and showing her German Shepherd in obedience trials. In 1973, the family moved to Park Rapids, MN, where Page got her own horse. She graduated from Park Rapids Area High School in 1976 and later attended the University of Minnesota Crookston, focusing on light horse management. It was there that she met Rick Mitteness, beginning their 46-year marriage.

Rick and Page lived in Crookston, MN, where they worked together at the Crookston Cattle Company for a few years. After their son Aaron was born, they moved to Milton, IA. Following the death of Page's grandfather, Tom Lockridge, they moved to his farm, Lockmoor Angus Farms, near Russell, IA, in 1985. There, Rick and Page started farming and raising Angus cattle, becoming well-known in the Russell and Corydon communities. Page worked as a secretary at S&S Veterinary Clinic and later with Dr. Jim Sandy until her retirement.

Page had a deep love for her family farm and animals, along with a passion for gardening. She enjoyed training and showing horses in her younger years. Page was known for her dedication to hard work and always had a project on hand. She could often be found in the barn, with the radio playing oldies, or covered in dirt working in the yard. Her door was always open, and a plate of food was ready for anyone who stopped by.

Page is survived by her sons, Aaron (Wendi) Mitteness and Brian (Jonda) Mericle; grandchildren Skye Mitteness, Thor Mitteness, Brynlee Bingham, and Kotler Bingham; and her brother, Eric Olson of Park Rapids, MN. She is also survived by her sister Anne (Bill) Bialke of Upstate NY, and Anne and Bill's children: Audrey (Arlo Chapple-Berletic) Bialke, Madeline (Sarah Milner-Barry) Bialke, and Julia Bialke. Page is also survived by her sisters- and brothers-in-law Michele (John) Westlund of Punta Gorda, FL, Chantell (Bob) Hay of Buffalo, MN, Lynette (special friend Dennis Peterson) of Alexandria, MN, and Randy (Karen) Mitteness of Benson, MN.

She was preceded in death by her husband Rick Mitteness, her parents Harold and Eleanor (Lockridge) Olson, and her in-laws Leonard and Charlotte Mitteness. A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Memorials may be sent to the Wayne County Fair, 201 West Jackson Street, Corydon, IA 50060.

Rick Lee Mitteness August 10, 1957 - September 25, 2024 Obituary

Ricky Lee (Rick) Mitteness was born on August 10, 1957 in Benson, Minnesota. He passed away on September 25, 2024, under the care of Hospice in Corydon, Iowa. Rick was born to Leonard and Charlotte (Swenson) Mitteness of rural Benson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Christian Faith at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson. He attended country school with his siblings and neighborhood kids.

Rick graduated from Benson High School in 1975 where he was active in 4-H, FFA, Livestock Judging and wrestling. In the fall of 1976, he attended the University of Minnesota, Crookston. It is here he met his future wife, Page Olson. They lived in Crookston, Minnesota where they worked for the Crookston Cattle Company. After their son Aaron was born, they moved to Milton Iowa where Rick worked as a herdsman and later at a foundry.

Upon the passing of Page’s grandfather, Tom Lockridge, they moved to his farm, Lockmoor Angus Farms, near Russell, Iowa. It was here that Rick and Page started in farming and continued in raising angus cattle. They became established in the Russell and Corydon communities. Rick was active with the Wayne County Fair board.

Rick lived his life with optimism. He always saw the glass as half full. He loved his family especially his grandchildren, Skye, Thor, Brynlee, and Kolter. He believed in God and country. He was patriotic and a true conservative. He looked out and helped his neighbors.

Rick had the gift to gab and a wonderful sense of humor. Because of these qualities he had many friends from many walks of life. To quote Rick, “Dad once told me he’d rather have 10 friends than $10 and I never forgot that.” Rick enjoyed when people would stop by and he would stop whatever he was doing to just talk.

Rick is survived by his wife, Page, of 46 years, his sons Aaron (Wendi) Mitteness, Brian (Jonda) Mericle, his grandchildren Skye Mitteness, Thor Mitteness, Brynlee Bingham, and Kotler Bingham. His siblings: Michele (John) Westlund from Punta Gorda, Florida, Chantell (Bob)Hay from Buffalo, Minnesota, Lynette, (Special friend Dennis Peterson) from Alexandria Minnesota, Randy (Karen)Mitteness, from Benson, Minnesota. His brother-in-law Eric Olson of Park Rapids and sister and brother- in- law Anne and Bill Bialke, Upstate New York.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Charlotte Mitteness, and In-Laws Harold and Eleanor (Lockridge) Olson. 

The family will being having a celebration of life at a later time. Memorials may be sent to Wayne County Fair: 201 West Jackson Street, Corydon, Iowa 50060. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or on our funeral home Facebook page, www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.

 

 

Gelene Kay Sibert August 5, 1943 - March 18, 2025 Obituary

 

Gelene Kay Sibert, 81, passed away on March 18, 2025, in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Family will greet guests from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the funeral home. Gelene will be interred in Russell Cemetery following services. Memorials may be made to the University of Iowa Children's Hospital-Stead Family Children's Hospital in Gelenes name.

Gelene was born August 5, 1943, at a home on a farm south of Chariton. She was the middle child of 5, an older brother and sister, and a younger brother and sister. By the farm where they grew up, there was a bridge over Honey Creek, and Gelene and her siblings loved playing at the bridge as children so much, that 70 years later she asked to be taken there again. It was special to her. She loved her baby dolls and loved animals her whole life. She had very cherished memories of Christmas, including the year she and her sister Marcia received Green Ruffled Bloomers for Christmas. She enjoyed growing up with her siblings and her large extended family of cousins and going on frequent family visits each year, which meant either family coming to Russell or going to Marshalltown or Newton.

She attended Russell High School and graduated in the Class of 1962. She played softball for four years but was sad that a heart murmur prevented her from playing basketball and other sports. She always remembered her senior class trip to Chicago with her friends and how much she enjoyed going to Chicago to tour the city and going to the movies.

At one time she worked at Gino’s Restaurant in Des Moines in the 1960’s and it was then that her first greatest joy came into her life, her son Michael was born. In the early 1970s she and her son moved to Chariton with the family and lived at 527 North Main street, across the street from the Chariton High School. She worked as a baker at the Quality-T Bakery on the Chariton Square, before becoming a cook and lunch lady at the Chariton School District for over 30 years. She loved working for the school, the friends she worked with, and being around generations of kids at the Chariton School District, serving lunch each day at Garfield Junior High or the High School. Her family always lived across the street from the high school, and their home was always open to everyone, and it was routine in the 1980s for the high school kids to go to their home for lunch periods; all were welcomed, the doors were never locked. Gelene was a hard worker and always had two jobs. For decades she would work eight hours in the morning, come home and change and work another eight hours in the evening. She was a cook at the Country Chef Restaurant for years, and eventually at the Lucas County Hospital before retiring. She never had a car and didn’t drive but was extremely grateful to the hundreds of friends and family who gave her rides around Chariton for decades.

In her spare time, she was always sewing, coloring/painting, or making art/craft projects, or just reading volumes of books. Her home was always decorated for holidays, especially Christmas and most of the decorations and ornaments were handmade by her. She always saw the beauty in the world, in the simplest things; she would be the first to plant a pink flamingo in the yard and there were always toys and games to be found at her side, because life should include Cotton Candy. She was also a lifelong Chariton and Russell supporter, and an Iowa Hawkeye fan. She was known to always be watching a football or basketball game on television while sewing or doing crafts. She was a huge Iowa Hawkeye fan, especially when her son Michael was playing on the Iowa Hawkeye Football team in the 1980s and 1990s and was thrilled to be attending home games at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

After retiring, few loved retirement more than Gelene. At 62 years old, she became determined to get her learner's permit and eventually her driver's license, which she did, and was able to purchase her first car at 64 years old. The timing was perfect because it coincided with the arrival of her most prized joy in her life, her granddaughters Josephine and Holiday. Gelene moved to Kansas City for almost 10 years and lived with her son, and wife Leah, and granddaughter Josephine Ruby, who was her best friend, who she got to see grow and spent every day and night with. Grandma Gelene went from never driving to rapidly learning to drive Josephine to her Ballet Classes at the Kansas City Ballet, or just their daily trips to the library or other events. As her health declined, she moved back to Chariton in 2020, to Southgate Apartments where she enjoyed her time with the ladies of the building. When Josephine graduated in 2023 as the Missouri Scout of the Year, a Gold Awardee, and a top Beering Scholar, no one was prouder than Grandma.

As a child, Gelene suffered from intense bullying at the hands of a teacher in the 1950s, and that formed her identity in which she wanted nothing but kindness for everyone. Seeing anyone being unkind or seeing anyone experiencing unkindness was something that deeply troubled her and she went out of her way to take care of people or to befriend everyone. She was an amazing gift giver, even though she was always of low-income status, she gave anything she had to others, her son experienced amazing Christmases, and her granddaughters always received amazing birthday and Christmas presents. Most importantly, she gave everyone the one thing she could and that was her time and attention. She was generous, selfless, and fiercely independent- she always gave selflessly of her time, always put others first, especially her family, and she actually would walk in the snow to a job that didn’t pay much and work two jobs to take care of her child, and the same with her grandchild.

She is survived by her son, Michael D. Sibert (Leah), of Lee’s Summit, MO & New Orleans, LA, and Granddaughters Josephine Ruby Sibert and Holiday Fagan. Her sister Marcia Clark and Jim Porterfield, Chariton, Iowa her brother (Earl) Dale Sibert Jr, Okmulgee, OK. Her nieces, Karmel Kemper (John), Tonya Clark (Thad Tracy), Shelley Sibert Deeringer (Randy Thompson), Sherry Kistler (Travis) and Shannon Sibert-Kimmel (Joe). Her Nephew Brian Sibert (Connie). A lot of Cousins, Grandnieces, Grandnephews, dear friends, and extended family.

She is Preceded in death by her parents: Earl and Gladys Sibert, a brother: Gary Sibert & Wife Pamela Amos Sibert, her sister Verdella Sibert Phipps and husband Charles "Bud" Phipps and her sister-in-law Sharon (Hudson) Sibert and her nephew: John Dale Clark.

Her family is eternally grateful to everyone who ever helped her or were simply her friends and expressed their love. Charitable contributions.

Visitation

Sunday, March 23, 2025

2:00PM - 4:00PM

Pierschbacher Funeral Homes - Chariton

914 Roland Ave.

Chariton, IA 50049

Service

Monday, March 24, 2025

10:30AM