Gary W Rodgers Obituary August 12, 1948 - September 15, 2026

 

Gary Wayne Rodgers passed away on September 15th following a medical emergency at work. Gary was born August 12, 1948, in Chariton, IA to Wayne and Maxine Rodgers. Gary was a graduate of Chariton High School (Chariton, IA) in 1967, living in Lucas County for most of his life.

In 1972, Gary married Rita Flanders, and they were blessed with four children: Todd, Chad, Jake and Amanda. Gary was also blessed with a son, Wayne Conway, from a previous marriage. Gary and Rita also served as foster parents for 15 years, providing a positive home life for many young boys and girls.

Gary worked a couple of jobs early on but found stable work with Fulton and Sons, Inc. around 1980, retiring after 30 plus years of service. Following his retirement, Gary took various part-time jobs. He most recently drove for Lucas County Recycling and worked for the Humeston Sale Barn and Central Plains Stockyards in Humeston, Iowa.

Gary had a true gift for working with his hands; he loved to build, create and fix things. He was known as Mr. Fix It, often being called upon by friends and family to help with various projects. Gary had a servant’s heart, which was a direct result of his relationship with Jesus Christ. Gary was firmly rooted in his faith and shared the love of Jesus with his family and close friends.

Gary was a huge fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Iowa Hawkeyes, attending several Hawkeye games over the years. In 2025, he was able to attend a Green Bay Packers game at Lambeau Field, checking it off his bucket list. Gary also enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his son Todd Rodgers; his sister Connie Churchhill; sisters-in-law Ruby Flanders and Debbie Brown; brothers-in-law Larry Flanders, Terry Flanders, Rick Flanders, Denny Jones, Rick Brown, and Dave Bianchi; nieces Marsha Barton and Brenda Barton; and nephews David Churchill and Wade Flanders.

Gary is survived by his wife, Rita Rodgers of Humeston, IA; his children: Wayne Conway of Melrose, IA; Chad (Kathileen) Rodgers of Urbandale, IA; Jake Rodgers of Humeston, IA; Amanda Rodgers of Humeston, IA; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and his siblings: Carol (Bill) Musick of Chariton, IA and Chuck (Barb) Rodgers of Humeston, IA. He is also survived by Dixie Bianchi (Norwalk, IA), Sharon Jones (Derby, IA), Charlotte Flanders (Derby, IA), Lori Flanders (Plano, IA), and many, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family whom he loved dearly.

A visitation will take place at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, IA on September 26th at 10:00 AM, with a Celebration of Life service following at 11:30 AM. A luncheon will be held immediately following the service at the community center in Chariton. All are invited to join the family to celebrate Gary’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be received by the family and designated at a later date

Shirley Ann Morr Obituary September 12, 1944 - September 23, 2026

 

Shirley Ann Morr, 82, of Chariton, passed away Wednesday, September 23, 2026. At Shirley’s request, no services will be held. Cards of condolence and memorials may be made to the Chariton Public Library Foundation in care of Pierschbacher Funeral Home, PO Box 509, Chariton, IA 50049.

Shirley Ann was born September 12, 1944, at Yocom Hospital in Chariton, Iowa, to Charles and Dorcas Powers. Her mother later married Earl Davis, and Shirley was raised in Russell.

Athletic from a young age, Shirley especially loved basketball and had a talent for the game. One of her proudest accomplishments came in the spring of 1962, when she became the Iowa State Girls Basketball Free-Throw Champion. She graduated from Russell High School with the Class of 1962.

On June 2, 1962, Shirley married Larry Wantland, and they were blessed with three children: Lori, Marty, and Toni. Later in life, Shirley married Jim Morr on August 21, 1986.

In her younger years, Shirley loved being outdoors. Camping, water sports, and fishing were favorite ways to spend her time, especially when family was involved. As the years went by, she found other things she enjoyed just as much, including ceramics and tending to her garden.

Shirley was also a tremendous cook. Her family will especially remember her spaghetti and tater tot casserole. Two dishes that simply won’t ever taste quite the same when made by someone else.

More than anything, Shirley will be remembered for her giving heart. She genuinely cared about others and was always willing to give of herself to the people she loved. Her family was an important part of her life, and the memories they made together will continue to be treasured.

Shirley will be greatly missed by her children, Lori Hansen, Marty (Nancy) Wantland, and Toni (Todd) Perdew; her grandchildren, Christopher, Devin, Ashley, Lauren, and Carmen; her siblings, Sonya Putz, Gary Powers, and Jan Bolin; along with extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Morr; her granddaughter, Taylor Kahn; and brother Terry Davis.

Obituary for Jimmie "Jim" Narber March 1, 1939-September 12, 2026

 

Jimmie “Jim” Dean Narber, 87, of Grand Island, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Friday, September 18th. Burial will follow at Grand Island City Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Navy and the Hall County Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be from 5-7 pm Thursday, September 17th, at All Faiths Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be directed to First National Bank Omaha in Grand Island to the "Jim Narber Memorial Fund." Donations will be put towards a future planned memorial in Grand Island.
Jim was born March 1, 1939, in Lovilia, Iowa, to Reed and Lucille (Mosley) Narber. Jim attended school in Chariton, IA, and Sioux Valley, MN, graduating in 1957 from Sioux Valley High School.
On November 8, 1961, Jim entered the United States Navy (Seabees). During his service he did construction work in eight different countries including Puerto Rico (Island of Culebra), Greece, Naples Italy, Sicily, Spain, Antarctica, and Newfoundland. He was honorably discharged on March 8, 1966, as an E-5 Second Class Petty Officer.
On June 16, 1962, Jim married Donna Reynolds. They had four children, Conn, Shannon, Heidi and Tiffany.
After military service, Jim worked for Shriver Construction of Jefferson, IA as project superintendent, overseeing the construction of motels, restaurants, clinics and apartment housing. In 1974 Jim moved his young family to Grand Island to work for Chief Construction as a project manager in the construction division.
In 1983, Jim started his own construction company, Jim Narber, Inc., a Construction and Development company, and in 1997 purchased the Floor to Ceiling Store. Jim continued working until August 2025. A motto Jim lived by, “It’s the Journey, Not the Destination.”
Jim was proud of his military service and took great joy designing and building the Freedom Rock display and pergola cover located at the Grand Island Veterans Club.
Those who cherish his memory include his wife of 64 years, Donna; his children, Conn (Karen) Narber, Shannon (Vicki) Narber, Heidi (Kent) Richter, and Tiffany (Todd) Johnson; grandchildren, McClain (Ty) Botsford, Adyson (Garrett) Staten, Cal (Laine) Narber, Judah Narber, Daniel Narber, Jillian Narber, Sydney Richter, Will Richter, Jack Richter, Edward Johnson, Charles Johnson, and Sophia Johnson; and two great-grandchildren, Beaux and Otto Botsford.
He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Joann Narber and Louise Narber; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Doyle and Marilyn Reynolds, and sister-in-law, Dixie Dursky; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jerry Narber and Gene Narber; his parents-in-law, Lyle and Wilma Reynolds; and brother-in-law, Steve Dursky.

Patricia Blubaugh Obituary November 9, 1937 - August 23, 2026

Patricia Louise Blubaugh, 88 of Chariton, Iowa, passed away peacefully at the Clarke County Hospital on August 23, 2026, surrounded by her family. A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Patricia was born on November 9, 1937, in Lucas County, to Asa and Edith (Casner) Etter. She was the youngest of 9 children and grew up alongside Dora, Wyoma, Bob, Bruce, Betty, Bill, Lucille and Helen. She graduated from Chariton High School with the class of 1956.

On August 4, 1956, Patricia Louise Etter married Leo Joseph Blubaugh, beginning a loving marriage that spanned seven decades. Together they built a life centered on faith, family and hard work.

Patricia began her career working for Dr. Herman and Dr. Egly for several years. Several years later she started their family, and she spent her time as mother to Debra and Jim.

Pat was dedicated to the Catholic Church for years and was always available to set up for weddings and events held at the church. She was obsessed with cleanliness, whether it was her home or her vehicles, everything had to be spotless. She enjoyed a good story and would have her kids and grandkids absolutely in tears by the end of the story.

Over the years Pat had many jobs working at K-Bar Packaging, Mother Nature's Pantry, Lake Vista Supper Club and Hy-Vee as a cake decorator. When she retired from Hy-Vee, she became the manager for Lake Vista Motel (Country Cabins) from 1992-2000. After officially retiring in 2000, she and Leo moved to a nice home in Chariton and continued to travel to their favorite destinations, mostly to Lake of the Ozarks and Branson. They made several trips to the Mega Mall in Minneapolis with their grandkids. Pat was also the go-to person to make cakes for all the special family occasions.

Patricia’s greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her children: Debra (Nick) Cattell and Jim (Liz) Blubaugh; seven grandchildren: Heather (Thad) Michael, Brad (Kelly) Cattell, Morgan (Alan) Kane, Bridget Blubaugh (David Rivera), Kyle Blubaugh, Dillan Blubaugh (Katie Paine), Jordan Blubaugh (Anthony Davis); 18 great grandchildren: Mercedes (Bryce), Cheyenne (Brandon), Tucker, Khloe, Issac, Max, Annalyn, Abel, Whitney (Adam Goudeart), Christopher, Poppi, Leo, Harper, Ryleigh, Adaleigh, Colter, Ellie and Asher; along with one more great great grandchild on the way. Pat also leaves many nieces, nephews, extended family members and countless friends.

Her passing came just one month after the loss of her beloved husband, Leo. While their family has experienced tremendous loss in such a short time, they find comfort in knowing that after more than sixty-five years of marriage and a lifetime of memories together, Patricia and Leo have been reunited once again. Patricia is also preceded by her parents, Asa & Edith; an infant brother, James Donald; three brothers, Bob, Bruce & Bill; five sisters, Dora, Wyoma, Betty, Lucille and Helen.

Patricia will be remembered for her strong work ethic, quiet devotion to her family, her love of traveling and babysitting the grandkids, and the simple joys she found in spending time with those she loved. Her kindness, dedication, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Vincent Pelzek Obituary May 13, 1963 - September 1, 2026

 

Vincent Timothy Pelzek, 63, of Russell, IA, passed away on September 1, 2026, after a short and courageous battle with cancer. Vince was born on May 13, 1963, in El Paso, Texas, to Thomas Pelzek and Victoria Hubbard. He was raised in Omaha, Nebraska, and spent most of his adult life in Iowa. For 25 years, Vince was the beloved and devoted partner of Terri Jones. He loved his family fiercely and deeply, and those he loved knew that beneath his strength and opinions was a heart that cared deeply. Vince was a man of many talents and passions. He was an educator, musician, artist, photographer, cook, and avid reader. He loved meaningful conversations and was never afraid to have the hard conversations about life, encouraging others to think deeply and speak honestly. Vince was proud of his Lakota spiritual path and carried a deep respect for Native American teachings. He believed in honoring and protecting those teachings and traditions, and his spiritual journey was an important part of the man he was. Vince had a deep and abiding love for nature and the animals he shared his life with. He loved his farm and found joy in spending countless hours tending his garden and caring for his flowers. Throughout his life, he opened his heart and his home to many stray animals, giving them love, safety, and a place to belong. Vince is preceded in death by his mother, Victoria Hubbard; his father, Thomas Pelzek; his grandmother, Anita Krystoff; and his cousin, Anna Marie Kelly. Vince is survived by his partner, Terri Jones; his son, Nik Pelzek; his stepchildren, Ian (Stacie) Holmgren, Jena (Emanuel) Otero, and Mick Jones; and his beloved grandchildren, Amelia, Cooper, Jacari, and Mila, who lovingly called him Papa Vin. Vince will also be dearly missed by Terri's Mom, Patty Pottorff; his sister, Colette (Ron) Stricklett of Blair, Nebraska; their son, Gage Stricklett; and his niece, Emily, her husband, Chance, and their children, Drew and Holly Williams. He is also survived by his sister, Wendy (Rob) Wheeler of Rockwall, Texas, and their daughter, Montana. He is also survived by Terri's brother, Lonny Snook, along with his nieces and nephews, Tristan, Trisha, and Shelby Vince's uncles and aunts also survive him: Tim and Mary Kelly of New Braunfels, Texas, and Alpherie and Linda Krystoff of Pleasant Hill, California, as well as many more family members and friends who loved him dearly. Vince also leaves behind a community of caring hearts within the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). He will be deeply missed by the families he came to know, the staff and colleagues who had the privilege of knowing him, and the many members of the TAPS community whose lives he touched A memorial and celebration of Vince's life will be held on October 17, 2026, at Jester Park Nature Center from 4 to 6 pm. A graveside memorial will follow on October 18, 2026, at Mt. Zion in Chariton, Iowa. at 3:30 pm Though his time with us ended far too soon, Vince's love, spirit, and the lessons he shared will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

 

Richard Dittmer Obituary - December 30, 1960-September 2, 2026

 

Funeral services for Richard Dittmer, 65, of Russell, will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Interment will be at the Russell Cemetery.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 8, from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Russell Volunteer Fire Department in Richard’s memory.

Richard passed away on September 2, 2026. He will be greatly missed by his companion and friend of 26 years, Jo Carroll; his boys, Devon (Ashley) Carroll and Cody (Pahri) Carroll; grandchildren: Trent, Finn, Aislin, Sully, Layhla, and Avery; siblings: Jake (Kathleen) Dittmer, Tony Dittmer, Sue (Bonnie Hodson) Dittmer, Roger (Theresa) Dittmer, Sally (John) Kennedy, Greg (Shelly) Dittmer and Lisa (Johnny Schnathorst) Dittmer; Jo’s father, Jim Carroll; Jo’s siblings: Janet (Denny) Behrhorst, Jim (Tracy) Carroll, Jeri (Keith) Bowen, Joyce Carroll, Pat (Jenny) Carroll and Pete (Donna) Carroll; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Mary Dittmer; Jo’s mother, Dolores Carroll; and brothers: Sam Dittmer, Leon Dittmer, and Joe Dittmer.

Leo Blubaugh Obituary October 8,1936-July 10, 2026

Leo Joseph Blubaugh, 89, of Chariton, Iowa, passed away peacefully at the Osceola Care Center on July 10, 2026, just a few weeks before he and his wife Patricia would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on August 4th. Services are planned to be held at a later date. 

Leo was born on October 8, 1936, at his family home in Melrose Iowa, to Fred and Agnes (Cratty) Blubaugh. He was the oldest of five children and grew up alongside his brothers Bernard, Bobby, Jimmy, and his sister, Sharon. He graduated from Russell High School with the class of 1955.

On August 4, 1956, Leo married Patricia Louise Etter, beginning a loving marriage that spanned seven decades. Together they built a life centered on faith, family and hard work.

Leo began his career working for Dannon Mills Co-op and drove trucks for L.L Lugar. He spent the majority of his working years with the local farmers co-op, as it changed names over the decades. Even while employed at the Co-op, Leo continued driving for Etter Livestock and Hy-Vee. He retired from the Co-op on April 30, 2005, after many years of dedicated service.

Retirement gave Leo more time to spend with his family, something he treasured above all else. He also loved gardening and maintained a large garden for many years until his health no longer allowed him to tend it. A stroke eventually slowed him down, but it never diminished his love for his family.

Leo and Pat enjoyed traveling together several times each year. Their favorite destination was Bagnell Dam at the Lake of the Ozarks, where Leo never missed an opportunity to visit the fudge shop and patiently wait for fresh, hot chocolate fudge to be made. They also enjoyed vacations to Branson and many other places together over the years.

Leo’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; his children: Debra (Nick) Cattell and Jim (Liz) Blubaugh; seven grandchildren; Heather (Thad) Michael, Brad (Kelly) Cattell, Morgan (Alan) Kane, Bridget Blubaugh (David Rivera), Kyle Blubaugh, Dillan Blubaugh (Katie Paine), Jordan Blubaugh (Anthony Davis); 17 great grandchildren: Mercedes (Bryce), Cheyenne (Brandon), Tucker, Khloe, Issac, Max, Annalyn, Abel, Whitney (Adam Goudeart), Christopher, Poppi, Leo, Harper, Ryleigh, Adaleigh, Colter, and Asher; along with one more great-grandchild and a great great grandchild on the way. Leo also leaves many nieces, nephews, extended family members and countless friends.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Agnes Blubaugh; his brothers Bernard and Jimmy Blubaugh; and his sister, Sharon Blubaugh.

Leo will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet devotion to his family, his love of gardening, and the simple joys he found in spending time with those he loved. His kindness, dedication, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mary Louise O'Brien Obituary July 2, 1935-July 11, 2026

Graveside funeral services for Mary O'Brien, 91, of Chariton, will be held Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Chariton Cemetery. Following the graveside service everyone is welcome to attend a luncheon at the First United Methodist Church in Chariton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lucas County Fair Association or the Lucas County FFA.

Mary Louise was born July 2, 1935, in Chariton, Iowa, to Lloyd and Arneitus Holmes. She was raised near Chariton alongside her little brother Donald. She graduated from Chariton High School in 1953. In high school she worked as a babysitter and at the Ice Cream Shop. She had also worked at the newspaper, grocery store and as a bookkeeper for a local gas station.

On September 17, 1953, Mary was married to Charlie Chester in Russell, Iowa. After moving a time or two, the couple settled down and were later blessed with three children: Richard, Bruce, and Starla. She later married Dennis O’Brien and welcomed his daughters to the family. Her family was her greatest joy and was extremely proud of all her children and loved watching the family grow.

From a young age, Mary was passionate about caring and working with children. As a young girl, she loved to babysit the neighbor kids and later, spent 25 years remaining very active and passionate about her involvement with the Girl Scouts. Not to mention her involvement as a Den Mother with the boy scouts. Mary was also active in the First United Methodist Church; she volunteered wherever she could and belonged to the Martha Circle. She considered her church family a great blessing.

After Dennis passed away in 2009, Mary moved to Chariton. She enjoyed her home in Chariton and loved working in her yard, tending the flowers and watching the birds. She loved living just a few houses down from her niece; it was a nice little walk to have a visit. In her free time, she enjoyed reading and going for a drive through the countryside.

Mary passed away Saturday, July 11th surrounded by her family. She will be greatly missed by her children: Rich (Jacque) Chester, Bruce (Kathleen) Chester, Starla (Rick Durr) Atwell, Kelly (Michael) O'Brien Schwartz, Dana O'Brien, Carrie (Brian) Thomas, and Jennifer (Daniel) Frye; 17 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 8 great great grandchildren; along with many relatives and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents: Lloyd and Arneitus Holmes; husband, Dennis O’Brien; brother, Donald Holmes; and grandson, Jarod Chester.