Christopher "Bubba" Huntsman Obituary

Chris “Bubba” Huntsman, 58, passed away on July 9, 2019, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. He was born in Corning, Iowa, on December 16, 1960, to Richard and Norma Huntsman.

Bubba worked as a foreman and supervisor for The Concrete Company in Des Moines. He was very proud of his work. To him this wasn’t only a job, but a family. He took great joy in mentoring each and every one of his co-workers. Bubba had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. One of his greatest accomplishments was his 16 years of sobriety. His daughter, Brooke was his pride and joy. Bubba also enjoyed cooking for his family and friends.

Chris is survived by his daughter, Brooke Huntsman; siblings, Pam Sandy (Lee), Jackie Greene (Mark), Jeff Huntsman (Lyndsay), Tim Huntsman (Kathy) and Jill Huntsman; special niece, Chrissy Raskie Jessen, along with many other nieces and nephews; his cats, Baby and Itty Bit. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Mary Huntsman Jessen; and cat, Birdie.

Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m., Saturday, July 13, 2019, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. A time of sharing will begin at 5:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Chris.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

James William Blubaugh Obituary

 

 

James William Blubaugh, 75, of Davenport, IA died June 2, 2019 at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, IA.

Visitation will be held from 4-6 pm on Thursday, June 6 at Weerts Funeral Home, 3625 Jersey Ridge Road, Davenport, with a prayer service to follow. Funeral services will be held 10:30 am Friday, June 7 at Our Lady of Victory Church, Davenport with a short visitation 30 minutes prior to service. Burial will be at Davenport Memorial Park.
Born January 20, 1944, James was the son of Fred Blubaugh and Agnes Cratty Blubaugh. He married Judith Elgin on November 12, 1966 at St. Patrick’s Church in Ottumwa, IA.
He was a 1962 graduate of Albia High School, Albia, IA. He worked at Alcoa for 37 years and served in the IA National Guard from 1965 to 1972. After retirement, he and Judith enjoyed traveling. Jim was always a farmer at heart and enjoyed going back to the family farm as much as possible. He enjoyed tractor shows and farm auctions.
Jim was a man of few words. He enjoyed telling stories of the past and sharing facts and findings of just about anything. He was a quiet man and had a deep love for his family and country. Each grandchild had their own unique relationship with him, along with special adventures and memories.
He is survived by his wife Judith and two sons, Jeffrey Blubaugh, Davenport, IA and John (Gail) Blubaugh, Davenport, IA; grandchildren, Sydney Jensen, Davenport, IA, Jackson and Corbin Blubaugh, Davenport, IA.; brothers, Leo (Pat) Blubaugh, Chariton, IA.; and Robert (Marianne) Blubaugh, W. Des Moines, IA.; sister Sharon Blubaugh, Des Moines, IA., and several nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Our Lady of Victory Church or Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.

Jackie Andrews Obituary

 

 

 

 

Services for Jackie Andrews, 89, of Russell, will be Friday, June 14, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Interment will follow at the Russell Cemetery. Family will receive friends on Thursday, June 13th from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith United Methodist Church in Russell or to the Russell Historical Society and Library.

Jacqueline Ann Dixon was born January 27, 1930 to Guy Walter and Lillie Audrey (Ruble) Dixon in Chariton, Iowa. Jackie grew up in Russell, Iowa and graduated from Russell High School with the class of 1948.

On September 29, 1956, Jackie was united in marriage to Jim Andrews in Russell, Iowa. The couple was blessed with five children: Becky, Toni, Vicki, Brenda, and Kyl.

Jackie was an active member of the Russell community. She was a member of the Wayside Garden Club, the American Legion Auxillary, and a dedicated member of Faith United Methodist Church.

Jackie passed away May 30, 2019 at the age of 89. She will be greatly missed by her children: Becky (Lyle) Ehlers of Lucas, Toni Harryman of Norwalk, Vicki (Tom) German of New Sharon, Brenda (Darrell) Gilbert of Johnston, and Kyl (Tammie) Andrews of Osage; 15 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren (plus one on the way); brother, Floyd Dixon; and many relatives and friends. Jackie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of forty-five years, Jim Andrews; and siblings: Betty Cross and Fred Dixon.

Donald Gartin Obituary

Donald Eugene Gartin, 82, passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2019, in Iowa City, IA.
Visitation will be held from Noon until 7 PM on Wednesday, February 13th at Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel in Mt. Pleasant, IA.  The family will be in attendance from 5 – 7 PM.  Pastor Charles Comfort will be officiating a funeral service at 10:30 AM on Thursday, February 14th at First Baptist Church, Mt. Pleasant.  Burial will take place at Salem Cemetery in Chariton, IA.
He was born August 21, 1936, in Chariton, Iowa, to John Laurel and Ora Lovell Gartin.  He graduated from Chariton High School (1954), Omaha Bible Institute (1957), the University of Iowa (1962), and University of Iowa College of Law (1965).
He was married to Constance Lee Cottingham on December 27, 1963 and moved to Mt. Pleasant following his graduation from law school.  He worked as an attorney with the Galer Law firm until he later opened a private practice.  He also owned a construction company.  He and his wife Connie raised two sons, Timothy L. Gartin (Ames) and Marcus L. Gartin (Mt. Pleasant).
Donald was involved in community activities including Rotary and leading an Explorer Post.  He was also active in the local Republican Party and served as a precinct captain for many years.
As a child, he attended the First Baptist Church of Russell, Iowa, and later enjoyed teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir at First Baptist Church in Mt. Pleasant.  His faith was in Christ as Lord and Savior.
His greatest passion outside of his faith and family was in helping others. He believed everyone mattered and instilled this in his children.  He mentored many young people toward careers they would eventually pursue as adults.  As a young man, he enjoyed the benefit of similar mentors and wanted to help young people understand the importance of hard work, integrity, and an education.
He remained active in farming during his retirement years.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Beverly Keener, and a brother, Randall Gartin.
Donald is survived by his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren: Nathan, Peter, Elizabeth, and Joshua Gartin.  He is also survived by one sister, Carol (Gartin) Taylor.
He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Mary Chase Obituary

 

 

Obituary for Mary Annettie Chase

A Celebration of Life for Mary Chase, 97, will be Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m. Interment will be at the Russell Cemetery. A luncheon will be held following the burial at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Russell or to Westhaven Community in Boone, Iowa.

Mary Annettie (Odell) Chase was born in Seward, Nebraska, on May 28, 1921 to John William and Zenobia (Lynn) Odell. She died on April 26, 2019 at Westhaven Community in Boone, Iowa.

Mary's mother passed away on December 30, 1928 after giving birth to a son and a bout of pneumonia. The son, Marvin Lansing Odell died shortly after birth. Mary was 7 years old at the time. She and her sister, Bessie May Odell, and brother, Frederick William Odell were brought to Russell, Iowa by their father by train on February 22, 1929. The sisters stayed with the Robert Lynn's in Russell, Iowa and Fred with Harold and Alta Horner of rural Russell, Iowa. After a few years Fred went back to Seward to live. A few years passed then the girls' sister, Caroline, also came to stay with Mrs. Lynn. Mrs. Lynn's husband, Robert, had died just a year after the children's mother.

Mary started school in Seward, Nebraska, and graduated from Russell High School in 1939. She earned the honor of class valedictorian with a lot of hard study and determination. She wanted to do something that would please and bring honor to her Aunt Nora Lynn, who worked very hard to raise Mary and her two sisters after the death of their mother, Zenobia. After high school she attended summer school at Cedar Falls, Iowa, to update her teaching certificate. She taught in the Lucas County rural schools for 5 years.

Her summer jobs varied. She was a companion to an elderly lady in Russell, Iowa; an egg breaker at Swift and Company in Des Moines; and a box factory worker in Moline, Illinois.

Mary gave her heart to the Lord at about the age of 12 in 1933. (Rev. Archie Beals was pastor.) She was a member of the Russell Baptist Church in Russell for many years. She served in several capacities in her church for many years. She served as a Sunday school pianist during her teen years, was a Bible School Teacher, and a Young People's teacher assistant. For several years she wrote a Christian Chatter column for the First Baptist bulletin. Mary volunteered at the Lucas County Historical Museum, delivered Meals on Wheels, volunteered at the Chariton Manor with the games and activities, and worked at the Ministry Center.

On May 7, 1944, Mary was united in marriage to Arthur LeRoy Chase of rural Russell. Arthur was the son of Robert and Stella Chase. Arthur and Mary made their home on a farm south of Russell for many years. Mary was a dutiful wife, raised a large garden, raised chickens, and gathered and washed more eggs than most of us will ever see. She also patched many pairs of overalls for the men of the family. She was a wonderful homemaker and mother known for her brownies, rolls, and jello salads. Her hobbies included reading, genealogy, crocheting, writing, and crafting for the grandchildren. She liked walking, traveling, and camping with Arthur. She taught herself to use the computer for her genealogy work, keeping a diary, and e-mailing family and friends.

After 23 years, when Arthur quit farming and started working at the Chariton Wholesale Grocery Warehouse, they moved to Chariton. Arthur and Mary had nearly 48 wonderful wedded years together until the Lord took Arthur home to be with his Savior on February 25, 1992. Mary felt that being committed to her family and raising three thoughtful children was a great accomplishment. The credit for rearing her children should go to the Lord for His guidance and help, and also to their father who influenced them by his fine Christian teaching and examples.

Mary and Arthur had four children: Robert LeRoy (Barbara Sibert) Chase, Larry Dean (Linda Cottrell) Chase, twins: Eileen Loree (John) Hall and Darlene Marie Chase (deceased August 16, 1949); six grandchildren: Teresa (Rodney) Smiley, Thad (Mikki) Chase, Michelle (Dave) Hyman, Brenda (Brian) Kotewa, Terri (Brian) Shuster, and Jerri (Scott) Pearson; 14 great grandchildren: Brea Smiley, Jacob Smiley, Cortney Hyman, Matthew Hyman, Branden Hyman, Julia Kotewa, Gabriel Kotewa, Lyndsay Shuster, Grant Shuster, Collin Pearson, Chloe Pearson, Ryland Pearson, Jozey Chase, and Carter Chase. Mary also considered Stacy Jones and her children Ariel and Brady as grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her three children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; brother, Frederick Odell; sister, Caroline (Walter) Faulconer; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by: parents, John and Zenobia Odell; husband, Arthur LeRoy Chase; daughter, Darlene Marie Chase; brother and sister-in-law, John Robert and Nellie Marie Odell; brother, Marvin Lansing Odell; sister and brother-in-law, Bessie and Dwight Rawlins; and sisters-in-law, Grace Moss Odell and Virginia Querrey Odell.

Dorothea Shenefield Obituary

Dorothea V. Shenefield, of Chariton, passed away April 7, 2019 at the age of 82.  A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, June 22, 2019. Family will receive friends for a luncheon prior to the service, from 11:30 until 1:00 p.m., at the Cornerstone Community Church in Chariton. A Graveside Service will follow at Liberty Cemetery near Osceola, Iowa. For those who would like to visit with Gerald following the service, cookies and coffee will be served at Southern Hills Specialty Care in Osceola.

Dorothea Vivan Edgington Shenefield was born to Guy and Mabel Edgington on January 18th, 1937, in Iowa City, Iowa. She had four brothers, Gene and Jerald, who passed before her. Ron and Jim, who survive her.

She graduated from Russell High School and married Gerald Shenefield in 1954. He was in the Army and they traveled for two years until he was discharged.

They bought a farm a couple of miles from where she grew up, SE of Russell. They worked hard on their farm and both had jobs off the farm as well. Dorothea worked in Real Estate, for an insurance company, at the local hospital and for many years in retail. Additionally, they purchased and renovated an old farmhouse and converted it into a Bed and Breakfast. They hosted many people from all over the country that wanted to hunt, fish or just enjoy the beautiful Iowa countryside. Many of the guests remained friends for years.

Dorothea was a kind, outgoing person, and made many friends in the community.
Gerald and Dorothea had two children, Debra and Steven, five grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. She loved them all and was a great Mom and Grammy. Each and every one was a blessing to her.

She was dedicated to her family and her happiest times were spent with them. She loved to travel, read and garden. Their farm and beautiful yard were always a source of pride to her.

Dorothea was an inspiration to her family, a true friend to so many people and loved by everyone who knew her. With her easy smile, beautiful blue eyes, her kind and loving nature, she captured the hearts of everyone who met her.

Although she endured many illnesses in her life and was in pain much of the time, she never complained. She passed peacefully and left us to join her family and friends who passed before her. Her strong faith in God assures her place in Heaven.

Dorothea is survived by her husband, Gerald Shenefield; children, Debra Jones and Steven (Brenda) Shenefield; five grandchildren: Aaron Shenefield, Jason (Tarra) Shenefield, Joel (Meagan) Shenefield, Adam Jones, and Stephanie Shenefield; ten great grandchildren: Anna, Aric, Peyton, Dreavin, Braydon, DeAngelo, Preston, Addison, Sadie, and Zoey; and brothers, Ron (Chris) Edgington and Jim (Brenda) Edgington. She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Mabel Edgington; and brothers, Gene Edgington and Ralph Edgington.

Ed Scheel Obituary

 

 

 

 

 

Services for Ed Scheel, of Russell, will be Saturday, April 6, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends prior to the service, from 2:30 until 3:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Russell Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Ed’s name to the Russell Sportsmen’s Club.

Edgar Paul Scheel was born November 7, 1950 to Wilda Arlene Sharples Scheel and Rainhard “Babe” Henry Edward Scheel in Creston, Iowa. Ed started school at Cromwell and graduated from Creston High School in 1968. After graduation, Edgar enlisted in the United States Army and served as a Motor Transport Operator.

In 1968, Ed was united in marriage to Nancy Rydell. The couple was blessed with a daughter, Kelly Jean.

In 1972, Ed was united in marriage to Bonnie Whittlesey. The couple was blessed with two children, Paul Allen and Kathy Ann.

Ed made a living as a truck driver. He also worked as a crop adjuster and for the Creston Police Department before retiring. Ed moved from Creston to Russell, Iowa. He served a term as the Russell mayor and was a member of the Russell Sportsmen’s Club. Ed enjoyed being outdoors. He loved trap shooting, hunting, and fishing trips in Canada. His dogs held a special place in his heart and he spent a lot of time training them.

Ed passed away April 2, 2019 at the age of 68. He is survived by his daughters, Kelly Jean Baptiste of Paris, Arkansas and Kathy Ann (Jason) Kendrick of Creston, Iowa; 8 grandchildren: Samantha Scheel, Zackery Paul Scheel, Claire Baptiste, Kate Baptiste, Kimberly Kendrick, Kassidy Kendrick, Jacob Kendrick, and Jonathan Kendrick; 2 great grandchildren, Izabella Yenzer and Rayfe Yenzer; 3 nieces: Lori (Curtis) Clark, Teresa (Bill) Black, and Margaret Condon; great nephew, RJ Clark; great niece, Montana Black; sister, Roa Bryan; special friend, Esther “Gussie” Harlan; along with a number of other special friends. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Rainhard “Babe” and Wilda Scheel; son, Paul Allen Scheel; and 2 nephews, Ray Donner and Scott Donner.

Betty Davis Obituary

 

Obituary for Betty Faye Davis

Betty Faye Davis, 81 of Russell, IA passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2019, in Corydon, IA. She was born June 13, 1937 in Gurdon, Arkansas to Wells Wright and Stella Baker Wright. Betty was raised by her mother alongside her four siblings. She was taught at a young age how to work hard and treat others with respect.

Betty graduated from Glen Rose High School in Malvern, Arkansas where she loved playing basketball and continued her love of sports watching her grandchildren play as they grew up. In her yearbook was a quote by her picture that said, “Her friendship is well worth having”. Truer words could not be said about Betty Davis. She was a loyal friend who loved to serve others.

While living in the Des Moines area, Betty married Charles Davis. She worked downtown in Des Moines at Look Magazine and later at Equitable of IA. Upon retirement, Chuck and Betty moved to a farm south of Russell, IA. Countless wonderful memories have been made on their farm over the years. Living there brought so much joy to their lives as they worked hard side by side. They were rarely seen apart even if it was just to run a simple errand. If Chuck was baling hay, Betty was working alongside him.

Betty loved spending time outdoors. She greatly enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, and taking pictures outside of the beauty around her. Chuck and Betty loved taking their grandkids and neighbor boys fishing or on four-wheeler rides.
Until recently, Betty was still purchasing her deer and turkey tags so she could go sit in her tree stand or blind and watch for a big buck or turkey to pass by. Even at age 80 Betty was still accurate and “took care” of an opossum last year that wouldn’t stay out of the food dish she put on her deck for a stray cat she looked after.

If you had the privilege of going to Betty’s house, you would soon know that Betty was a wonderful cook and had such a servants-heart. You never left hungry and often got to take home leftovers for later.

On Easter Sunday 2005, Betty made the most important decision of her life. She trusted Jesus Christ as her savior and was baptized at Heritage Point Lake in June of that year. She loved her Cornerstone Community Church family and was disappointed this past year when her health often kept her from church. She enjoyed watching the service online each week and had fond memories of serving in the kitchen during Wednesday night meals.

Betty is survived by sons Ricky and Kevin Laird, granddaughter Melissa Larson, granddaughter-in-law Andria Laird, great grandsons Shane and Kaden Laird, brother Eddie (Carolyn) Wright, sister-in-law Tess Young, special friends/neighbors that became her adopted family Ryan, Mindy, Tanner, Taylor, Carlie, and James Bennett, numerous nieces and nephews and many wonderful friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Charles Davis, son Mark Alan Laird, grandson Steven M. Laird, twin brother Bill Ray Wright, sister Marijo Graves, and brother Robert Eugene Wright.

Services will be held Monday, March 25, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, IA with Interment following at the New Altoona Cemetery in Altoona, IA.

Memorials may be made in Betty’s name to Cornerstone Community Church, Chariton, IA.

Alice Chester Obituary

Alice "Allie" (Kaestner) Chester

March 25, 1945 ~ March 16, 2019 (age 73)

Alice “Allie” Chester, age 73, of Mystic, passed away Saturday, March 16, 2019 at Centerville Specialty Care.

Alice was born on March 25, 1945 in Mystic, Iowa, the daughter of Clyde and Ruth (Armstrong) Kaestner.  She graduated from Centerville High School with the Class of 1963.  She was united in marriage to Merle “Dean” Chester on November 24, 1967 in Kirksville, Missouri.  To this union, Alice gained three children, Betty, Tina, and Lisa.  Together, the couple had Christopher.

Alice worked for ISU/Alliant Energy.  She started in billing, but spent many years in the call center.  She retired after working there for 40 years.  She was also the Treasurer in Mystic for several years, keeping the books for the city of Mystic.

Alice served on the Mystic Fire Department and First Responders with her husband, Dean.  She loved to travel with him as well.  She enjoyed doing yard work and spending time outdoors.  Alice was a long-time caretaker of her family.  She loved her family with everything she had, including her cat, Smoke, and her granddogs.  She was known by her family and friends for making the best Peanut Butter Fudge and other candies.

Left to cherish Alice’s memory are her children, Chris (Jamie) Chester of Mystic, Iowa, Betty (Pat) Howell of Sugarland, Texas, Tina (Bruce) Amos of Indianola, Iowa, and Lisa Croushorn of Tampa, Florida; eight grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; a brother, Richard “Dick” (Karla) Kaestner of Knoxville; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Chester on May 22, 2010; her parents, Clyde and Ruth Kaestner; sisters, Marjorie Louise Perkins and Mary Virginia Porter; a brother, Donald James Kaestner; and an honorary brother, James “Crop” Robinson.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00AM, Thursday, March 21, 2019 at Highland Cemetery in Mystic, conducted by Celebrant, Katie Pearson.  A Visitation will take place Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at Lange Funeral Home and Crematory in Centerville, with the family greeting friends from 6:00PM-8:00PM.  Memorials have been established to the family of Alice Chester, and may be mailed to Lange Funeral Home, 1900 South 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544.   Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.

Wilson Kelso Obituary

Wilson Kelso, 69, passed away Jan. 10, 2019, at his residence in Albuquerque, NM. He was born Oct. 15, 1949, to Samuel and Mary Elizabeth (Core) Kelso, and grew up on the family farm in Wright Township of Wayne County, Iowa, the youngest of five. He spent all his childhood school days in the Corydon School System and graduated with his class of 1967.

His talent and love of music led him on a widely traveled adventure in the world of country music. He performed with several groups, the most notable being his own "Wild Turkey Band," and wrote several songs himself during his musical career. His outgoing personality and positive attitude led to the creation of many friendships and opportunities he enjoyed and pursued throughout his lifetime.
Wil was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter Jessica Kelso Pickering; and great-granddaughter Mariah Pickering.

Survivors include sons: Timothy (Tracey) Kelso of Carroll; Karl (Jean) Kelso of Carroll; and Joseph Wilson Kelso of Ottumwa; grandchildren: Amanda, Courtney, Kendra, Kelbi, Jacob, Jordan, Landon and Cecily; and seven great-grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings: Herbert (Evelyn) Kelso of Camden, SC; Gerald (Nancy) Kelso of Fayetteville, Ark.; Patricia Jenkins and Garry Empey of Clive; and Rebecca (William) Carhoff of Tipton, Mo.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and one dear aunt Phyllis Core of rural Carlisle.
He will be remembered by all who knew him as one who had songs yet to sing, fish yet to catch, cribbage yet to play, jokes yet to tell and friends yet to meet.
A memorial service is being planned for Aug. 11, 2019 in Pleasantville.

OBITUARY

Dr. Roy Nicholas Pettinger

March 2, 1955 – January 28, 2019

Dr. Roy Nicholas Pettinger was born on March 2, 1955 in Russell, IA and passed away on January 28, 2019.

He was living in Fort Wayne, Indiana at the time of his death.

Norma F. Gartin Obituary

Norma F. Gartin

January 29, 1924 ~ February 3, 2019 (age 95)

 

  Norma Florine (Coles) Gartin was born January 29, 1924. She was born to George Odell Coles and Zora Lavilla (Baxter) Coles.  She was born at her parents’ home in the Whitebreast neighborhood north of Chariton, Lucas County, Iowa. 
On February 3, 2019 at the age of 95 years and 5 days, she passed from this life, to her heavenly home and is now free from the pain she suffered for many, many years.
Her parents faithfully took their family to church, and Norma accepted Christ as her personal Savior at a young age. After graduating from Chariton High School in 1941, she completed Normal Training and obtained her teaching certificate, and taught in one room country schools for 2 ½ school years.  She rode a pony from her parents' home to and from school each day.
Norma married Charles Gartin Jr. the love of her life, on June 11, 1944 in front of the fireplace in her parents' living room.  They began their married life in Little Bear, Wyoming.  To this union were born three children.  (Charles) Dennis, Linda, and George.  Later they moved to Chugwater, Wyoming. They returned to Iowa in 1952, to farm in partnership with Charles' Uncle John Gartin. In 1957, they rented the Meyers farm east of Russell.  Seven years later they were able to purchase this farm.
Norma was a supportive farm wife and mother.  She raised a large garden and did canning and freezing to put food on the family table.  She raised a large flock of laying hens often having as many as 300, which meant LOTS of eggs to gather and wash every day with the help of her children.  The egg money was used to meet many of the family's needs. There were many chores for everyone with calves, sheep, pigs and chickens on the farm.
Charles and the boys milked 4 cows so there was milk and cream to deal with daily. Washing the many parts of the cream separator was also one of Norma's daily chores. She supported her children in 4H projects, school activities, and church functions as well. When her husband was laid up with a back injury in 1965 she valiantly endeavored with the help of her two younger children to keep up with the chores.
Norma was very thorough and neat in everything she did. The young son of visiting friends was fascinated while watching her wash dishes and told his mother, “Look at that!  She washes the inside and the outside of her pans!”
Norma was a faithful, active member of First Baptist Church in Russell, Iowa. She served many years as the Mission treasurer.  She baked dozens and dozens of cookies for VBS and wonderful food any time there was a potluck dinner.
Following her husband Charles' death in 1987 she purchased a home in the town of Russell, Iowa, where she lived for 26 years, Norma decided to give up driving and moved to Southgate apartments in June 2013.  In 2017 she moved to Homestead Assisted Living and was moved to Legacy Lodge Hospice on January 23, 2019.
She was preceded in death by her husband Charles of 42 years on May 13, 1987, her parents George and Zora Coles, one brother Dean Coles, two sisters, Doris (Coles) Besco and Helen (Coles) Rawlins.   Sisters-in-law, Mildred Coles and Pat Gartin.  Brothers-in-law, Dwaine Rawlins and John Gartin. Son-in-law, Leland Whitlatch.   Nephew, Kenneth Besco. Niece, Nina Rawlins.
She is survived by: son, Charles Dennis (Charlene) of Cedar Falls, Iowa; daughter, Linda Whitlatch of Cambridge, Idaho; son, George (Neuza) of Springfield, Missouri.
She is also survived by 6 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, and 7 great, great grandchildren.

Grandchildren: (6) David (Gina) Gartin of Cedar Falls, IA., Michelle (Doug) O'Neil of Maryville, TN.
Caryl Whitlatch of Cambridge, ID, Jim (Valerie) Whitlatch of Tillamook, OR,
Philip (Bethony) Whitlatch of Palmer, AK.
Itamar (Samantha) Gartin of Springfield, MO.

Great Grandchildren:  (26)
Kelsey, Allisa, Hannah, Chase, Breanne and Cade Gartin.
Diana, Charles Joseph (C.J.) and Josiah O'Neil.
Brittany Whitlatch (Daniel) Eicher, Tyler (Ashley) Whitlatch and Makayla Whitlatch (Keven) Mack.
Gabriel (Emily), Laura, Garrett, Gilbert and Grady Whitlatch.
Amelia, Callista, Charles, Robert, William, Elaina, Gloria and Kenneth Whitlatch.
Gavin Gartin.

Great, Great Grandchildren: (7)
Tirzah, Naomi, Azariah, Reuben and Keziah Eicher.
Anastasia and Sebastian Whitlatch.
Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and other beloved family and friends.
There will be a time of visitation from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday February 8, 2019 at Fielding Funeral Home. A service of praise and thanksgiving and celebration of life, with Pastor Russ Harris of Bloomfield, and Pastor Terry Wilhite of Russell officiating at 10:30 am on Saturday February 9, 2019 at Fielding Funeral Home. Interment following in the Russell Cemetery.
Pallbearers are: David Gartin, Jim Whitlatch, Itamar Gartin, Doug O'Neil, C.J. O'Neil, and Josiah O'Neil. Honorary pallbearers are Caryl Whitlatch and Philip Whitlatch.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Russell, Iowa or to Legacy Lodge Hospice in Chariton, Iowa.