Dwayne E. Davis Obituary January 5, 1942 - March 26, 2022

 

Dwayne E. Davis

Ava, Missouri

 

Dwayne E. Davis, 80 years, 2 months, 21 days old, went Home to be with His Lord and Savior on March 26, 2022 at his home with his family by his side.

 

Dwayne was born January 5, 1942 in Newton, Iowa. He was the son of Lloyd and Rachael (Evans) Davis. He attended and graduated from Russell High School in 1960.    

 

Dwayne was a U.S. Marine Veteran and served for his country from 1961 to 1965.

 

On May 12, 1968 Dwayne and Lora Kay Hall were united in marriage at Iowa City, Iowa. They were blessed with two children, Harold and Sherry.

 

Dwayne was owner and operator of Davis Tire and Wheel in Ava for over 25 years. He worked alongside his wife, Lora Kay in the business.   

 

He was a member of the Ava Assembly of God Church for several years. He also served as a Gideon with the Douglas County Camp for years and was a member of the Troy Herd American Legion Post 112. Dwayne enjoyed horses and his cattle. His pride and joy was his family. He adored his grand and great grandchildren.

 

Dwayne’s passion was spreading the gospel through Gideon’s International and loved the opportunity to speak at area community churches.   

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother-in-law, Andy Simatovich, and several of Lora’s family members that have gone on to Heaven.

 

Dwayne is survived by his wife, whom he called Katey, two children and their spouses; Harold & Marcia Davis and Sherry & Mark Blakey, four grandchildren and their spouses; Chad & Laura, Brooke & Adam, Kelsey & Dustin, Mark Weston & Kala;  six great grandchildren; Bentlee, Maddi, Emma, Lucas, Peyton and Blayke; a sister, Sheryl Simatovich; brother and wife, Buddy & June Davis;

a host of relatives and many friends.

           

Funeral services for Dwayne will be Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Ava Assembly of God Church with burial following in the Dyer Cemetery with full military honors by the Troy Herd American Legion Post 112.  Visitation will be prior to the service on Tuesday at 1:00 P.M. at the church. Officiating will be Pastor Buddy Boyd and Pastor Robert Hall. Family requests memorials to the Gideon’s or Dyer Cemetery.

SERVICES

Visitation

Tuesday, March 29, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Ava Assembly of God
Highway 5 Bypass
Ava, Mo 65608

Get Directions on Google Maps

Funeral Service

Tuesday, March 29, 2022
2:00 PM

Ava Assembly of God
Highway 5 Bypass
Ava, Mo 65608

Get Directions on Google Maps

Burial in the Dyer Cemetery with Military Honors

Donna Mae Criswell January 30, 1932 ~ March 19, 2022 (age 90)

 

Donna Mae Criswell was born January 30, 1932 to Elmer and Gladys (Scott) Forbes in Murray, Iowa.  She graduated from Murray High School in 1950.  She worked several different jobs throughout her life,     Hy-vee as an billing clerk, Walmart, Baptist School in Knoxville, Iowa and First Baptist Church in Des Moines, Iowa.  Donna was a loving and caring mother to her five children, Dan, Denny, Deena with Don Wetzel, David and Donovan with Don Murdock.  In her later years she married Edward Criswell whom passed away on November 18, 2006.

Donna was a long-time member of the Chariton Christian Church of Disciples of Christ. She loved to sing and play for funerals and weddings.

She peacefully passed away with family by her side on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at the Lucas County Health Center in Chariton, Iowa.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Gladys Forbes, her husband Edward, her siblings, Marguerite (Gerald) Persels, Leo (Doris) Forbes, Mildred (Lloyd) Peppmeier and Kenneth Forbes.

Left to mourn her death is her brother, Corky (Linda)Forbes of Oregon, her children, Dan (Susan) Wetzel of Shenandoah, Denny (Judy) Wetzel of Ames, Deena (Randy) McSparen of Russell, David (Cindy) Murdock of Milan, Mo, Donovan Murdock of Chariton, 16 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, 19 great-great-grandchildren, her sister-in-law, Charlotte Forbes. Memorials may be directed to the Chariton Christian Church – Disciples of Christ in Chariton, Iowa.  On line condolences may be left at www.fieldingfuneralhomes.com.

Wanda D. Gookin Obituary July 12, 1930 ~ March 19, 2022 (age 91)

 

Wanda Dawn Fothergill was born July 12, 1930 in Knoxville, Iowa. Through her younger years her family moved to Melcher, Williamson, and Des Moines. As a young girl she developed her love of riding horses and all animals. She was a very proud graduate of East High School in Des Moines class of 1948. After high school she explored other places landing in Arizona before settling back in Des Moines working at the Bell telephone company and Hubbell Reality as a secretary.

  In 1954 she married Roger Gookin and to this union three sons were born Michael Roger, Joseph Paul and Douglas Jay. During their married life they lived several places Des Moines, Russell, Melrose, Montrose, Colorado and finally Chariton. Wanda had several jobs each place they lived but when they moved to Chariton she started working at the Chartion Manor. First as a cook and then joining the activities department where she worked 34 years. She had a great love for the residents and considered them her family. She worked until the age of 80 and then she continued to volunteer for many more years. Wanda was always a worker. Raising big gardens and taking care of kids, animals you name it.

  Wanda was a founding member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority in Russell. A member of Russell Methodist Church and a member of Russell American Legion Auxiliary for many years. Most of all she loved her friends and family.

  Left to mourn her loss are her children Mike (Mary) Gookin, Joe (Kellie) Gookin and Doug (Karen) Gookin. Her brother John Fothergill and sister Dalene (Jack) Mullins.

  Her grandchildren Heather (Ryan) Johnson, Chad (Britni) Gookin, Amber Heins, Emily (Tyler) Arp, April (Levi Clark),  Joe and Tyler Gookin

  Her great grandchildren Addison and Hayden, Josh, Amber, Jordan, Skyler, Jocelyn, Paisley, Adrien and Lily and one on the way.

Her great great grandchildren Jayce, Shane, Raydon, Shah Kahn, Orion, Case and Maverick.

  Memorials may be given in Wanda’s name to Russell Methodist Church or Care Initiatives Activity Department in Chariton.

Jessica Lynn Alexander Obituary May 30, 1985 - March 8, 2022

 

Services for Jessica Lynn Alexander, 36, of Russell, will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. There will be an open visitation from noon to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Jessica's family will receive friends prior to the service, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Services for Jessica Lynn Alexander, 36, of Russell, Iowa, will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. There will be a visitation from noon to 6:00 p.m. with the family present from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. to greet friends.

The service will be livestreamed at the following link: https://my.gather.app/remember/jessica-alexander

Memorials may be made in care of Jessica’s family. All donations made through the Tribute Fund link will go directly to Jessica’s family.

Jessica was born on May 30, 1985, in Newton, Iowa, to Rene Lyons. She graduated from Southeast Polk High School in 2004.

Jessica met Garrett Alexander in May of 2002 at the Knoxville Raceway. After Jessica graduated, she moved down to Lucas with Garrett, where they started their family. Jessica was united in marriage to Garrett on November 10, 2012, in Milo, Iowa. To this union, they were blessed with three children: Shannon, Jayson, and Jaxson.

She worked as an Associate at the Chariton High School. Jess loved doing two things, racing or camping. If you asked her what her favorite season was, she would say “race and camping season”.

Jessica will be dearly missed by her husband, Garrett Alexander; daughter, Shannon Alexander; sons, Jayson and Jaxson Alexander; mother, Rene Lyons; sister, Sara (Danny) Banker; parents-in-law, Jim (Pam) Alexander and Susan (Michael) Lowers; sister-in-law, Sheila (Matthew) Carty; sister-in-law, Amanda (Sheldon) Lane; sister-in-law, Renee (Andrew) Siders; along with many nieces and nephews. Jessica was preceded in death by her grandmother, Beverly Lyons; and her uncle, Rod Lyons.
Jessica will be dearly missed by her husband, Garrett Alexander; daughter, Shannon Alexander; sons, Jayson and Jaxson Alexander; mother, Rene Lyons; sister, Sara (Danny) Banker; parents-in-law, Jim (Pam) Alexander and Susan (Mike) Lowers; sister-in-law, Sheila (Matthew) Carty; sister-in-law, Amanda (Sheldon) Lane; sister-in-law, Renee (Andrew) Siders; along with many nieces and nephews. Jessica was preceded in death by her grandmother, Beverly Lyons; and her uncle, Rod Lyons.

Visitation - Wednesday March 16th  4-6 p.m.  Service 6 p.m.  Pierschbacher Funeral Home

Cathy Sue (Wilhite) Burkland Obituary November 29, 1957 ~ March 10, 2022 (age 64)

 Cathy Sue Burkland, age 64, of Moulton passed away Thursday, March 10, 2022 at her home.

Cathy was born on November 29, 1957 in Ottumwa, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Alice (Unger) Wilhite. She was raised in Russell, Iowa, and graduated from Russell High School with the Class of 1976.

Cathy had many passions in life including, cooking, baking, sewing, quilting and embroidery.  Most importantly, she cherished her children and grandchildren, as well as the time spent with them.  In her younger years, Cathy was saved and baptized, leading her to a life of helping and caring for others around her, which she was very fond of.

On June 19, 1976, Cathy was united in marriage to Ted Hansen, and to this union, Josh and Ben were born.  The couple later divorced.  She later married Howard Gorden Burkland, and to this union, two daughters were born, Meggan and Mollee.

Left to cherish Cathy’s memory are her children, Josh (Lindy) Hansen of Plant City, Florida, Ben (Tara) Hansen of New Sharon, Iowa, Meggan (Darrick Smith) Burkland of Moulton, and Mollee Vanderlinden of Moulton; a step son, Eric Burkland of Pella; two brothers, Jerry (Debbie) Wilhite of Dalby Queensland, Australia, and Terry (Sharon) Wilhite of Russell, Iowa; 14 grandchildren, Hunter Hansen, Kenedi Hansen, Kalyn Hansen, Taylor Hansen, Allen Hansen, Colten Hansen, Autumn Burkland, Rory Vanderlinden, Griffin Hansen, Quinn Hansen, Oaklyn Hansen, Dodge Duke, Daisalyn Duke, and Uriah Hansen; as well as several extended family members and friends.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Alice Wilhite; and a brother, Ricky Wilhite.

Per Cathy’s wishes, cremation has been accorded.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30AM, Monday, March 21, 2022 at Lange Funeral Home and Crematory in Centerville with Pastor Terry Wilhite officiating.  Visitation will take place Sunday, March 20, 2022 at Lange Funeral Home and Crematory in Centerville, beginning at 12:00PM (Noon), with the family greeting friends from 4-6PM.  Memorials have been established to the Family of Cathy Burkland, to be determined at a later date, and may be mailed to Lange Funeral Home and Crematory, 1900 South 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544.   Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com or on our funeral home Facebook page. 

Services

VISITATION

Sunday
March 20, 2022
4:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Lange Funeral Home & Crematory
1900 South 18th St
Centerville, IA 52544

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Monday
March 21, 2022
10:30 AM
Lange Funeral Home & Crematory
1900 South 18th St
Centerville, IA 52544

Caroline Faulconer Obituary August 2, 1926 - March 10, 2022

 

The family of Caroline Faulconer will welcome friends on Monday, March 14, 2022, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at the Chariton Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Caroline’s name to the Chariton Public Library and the Lucas County Historical Museum.

Caroline O’Dell was born on August 2, 1926, the fifth of six children born to John William and Zenobia (Lynn) O’Dell. She was raised in Seward, Nebraska until her mother died in 1928. She then lived with her relatives until coming to Russell, Iowa at the age of nine to live with an aunt and her sisters, Mary and Bessie.

Caroline graduated from Russell High School in 1944. She worked in the telephone office in Seward for a short while, then returned to Chariton and worked at the telephone office as an operator until her marriage to Walter Faulconer on September 30, 1949.

One daughter, Linda, was born in November 1950. They spent most of their married life on a farm in southern Lucas County. They moved to Chariton in 2003 and have lived there since. Caroline was a longtime member of Sunnyslope Church of Christ near Promise City, Iowa.

Caroline passed away at Chariton Specialty Care on Thursday, March 10, 2022. She is survived by her husband of 72 and a half years, Walter; daughter, Linda; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Caroline was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Mary Chase and Bessie Rawlins; brothers, Fred and John; and infant brother, Marvin.

Visitation Monday March 14th  9:30 to 11:00 am  Graveside Services  Monday March 14  11:00 am.

 

Jesse Theron Fisher Obituary October 3, 1981 - March 5, 2022

 

A Celebration of Life for Jesse Theron Fisher, 40, will be Friday, March 18, 2022, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m., at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. All donations made through the Tribute Fund link will go directly to Theron's family.

Theron will be dearly missed by his uncle and best friend, Garold "Gary" Wayne Smith; aunt, Rose Annette Smith; cousin, Wade Burk; close friends: Katie Oxenreider, Kimberley Fails, and Marquella Witt; and many more friends. He was preceded in death by his cousin, Terri Burk.

 

Nancy Gallagher Blue Obituary July 7, 1931 - March 9, 2022

 

Nancy G. Blue, 90, of Kokomo, passed away on Wednesday, March 9.
She was born July 7, 1931, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Genevieve and Richard Losch. She graduated from Central High School in Omaha (a place she loved to tell stories about) and Principia College, Illinois. On June 20, 1959, she married Robert Blue. She was a social worker at the time, and he was soon to be a doctor. They had three children: Becky, Debbie and Andy.
Nancy was committed to helping people who didn't get the same breaks in life that she did, first as a social worker, but throughout her life. She was an active member in her community, participating in PEO, and in her children's schools. She volunteered in various administrative capacities for the Kokomo Symphony for several years and was proud to have been part of bringing world-renowned violinist Joshua Bell to Kokomo.
She loved her husband, children, siblings, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews deeply and unconditionally. She was a tireless center of strength, caring and profound generosity.
She adored birds, playing bridge, books, flowers, children, Harry Belafonte, the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack, and New Smyrna Beach.
A memorial will be at 2 p.m. Friday, March 18, 2022, at Judson Road Baptist Church, 1995 N. 750 West, Kokomo.

Paul "Craig" Jeffries Obituary

 Paul "Craig" Jeffries

Overland Park - Paul "Craig" Jeffries, 75, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away Thursday, February 17, 2022 at his home.

Craig was born on January 23, 1947 to Thomas and Fanchon (Hellyer) Jeffries in Chariton, Iowa. He was a graduate of Russell Iowa High School and Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. His early career was in banking and in later years he worked in IT for KCP&L. A longtime resident of Indianola, Iowa his career path led him to seven states before finding home in Kansas City.

Survivors include his college sweetheart and wife of 54 years, Mary (Church) Jeffries; children, Kerry (Douglas) Weems of Lake Quivira, KS and Nichole (Alexander) Marsh of Edinburgh, Scotland; 3 grandchildren: Lizzie, Jack and Edward. A brother, Jerry Jeffries and family of Olathe, KS. and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Craig is preceded in death by his parents, brother Tom, and nephew Tommy.

Services to be scheduled at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Overland Park Fire Department Benevolent Association, or The Overland Park Police Officers Foundation (www.oppof.org), for their kind assistance in our time of need.

Douglas Faris Rash Obituary

 

Douglas Rash was born June 24, 1951, to John F. and Margaret C. (Hager) Rash in Marshalltown, Iowa. He peacefully passed away at his home with family by his side. Doug brought three children into this world, Brandon, Melissa and Catherine.  He was retired from the Army after serving in the Vietnam War and lived in Chariton, Iowa till his passing. Douglas enjoyed watching birds and had several bird feeders.  He also had a green thumb and loved gardening.

Douglas was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret Rash, his brother Donavon Rash.

He is survived by his children, Brandon Rash, Melissa Ellingson and Catherine Moreau, his siblings, Dwight (Janet) Rash, Daryl (Dixie) Rash, Darla (Doug) Rash and DaLene (Mark)Kahler.

Memorials may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project/DAV.  Online condolences may be left at www.fieldingfuneralhomes.com.

Roberta Jane Witt Obituary

 Roberta Jane Witt, age 96, passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022, at Independence Village in Ames, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at the Columbia United Methodist Church in Columbia, Iowa with burial in the Columbia Cemetery. A luncheon will follow the burial at the Columbia Community Center. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service.

Roberta Jane Shepard was born November 22, 1925, in Chariton, IA to Ray E. and Gladys Irene (Van Arsdale) Shepard. She graduated from Chariton High School in 1943. After high school she worked multiple jobs and was proud of the fact she self-funded her education at Iowa State University graduating in 1949 with a double major in Home Economics Education and Applied Art. Roberta taught language arts, home economics, and art for a total of 30 years at various schools in Iowa including Russell, Attica, Pleasantville, and 25 years in Albia.

On June 4, 1950, she married Harlan E. Witt, Jr. at the Presbyterian Church in Chariton. They were blessed with two children, Janet Gail Witt (1955) and John Shepard Witt (1957) and lived in Columbia, IA. In 1963 the family moved to Albia, IA when Harlan began managing the Goff & Nash Auto Parts Store (NAPA).

In 1996 the Witts moved to Chariton and enjoyed retirement. They loved to travel and saw all 50 states and nearly 80 countries around the world. Some of the trips were with the Friendship Force of Chariton and Des Moines. Roberta and Harlan also enjoyed winters in Apache Junction, AZ. Even after Harlan's death on September 4, 2009, she continued going to Arizona until 2019.

Roberta was a member of NEA, ISEA, Chariton Retired School Personnel, Columbia United Methodist Church, Lucas County Historical Society, and a 50 year member of the Eastern Star. She will be remembered for her love of family and friends, played a mean game of cards, and always supporting her family especially in their educational pursuits. She also adored her six great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Gladys; husband, Harlan; daughter, Janet Marquardt (2014); daughter-in-law, Susan Gardner Witt (2011); sister, Evelyn Beebout (2018); brother-in-law, Kenneth Beebout (2013); niece,Nancy Phillips (1988); and nephew, Warren Beebout (2017).

Roberta is survived by her son, John Witt of Aptos, CA; son-in-law, Darvin Marquardt of Ames, IA; grandchildren, Ryan (Janice) Marquardt of Van Meter, IA, Amanda (Greg) Wever of Ames, IA, Derick (Maria) Marquardt of Milton, VT, Robin (Linda) Gardner of Santa Cruz, CA, Dr. Russell Witt (Dr. Lily Witt) of Houston, TX; great grandchildren. Hazel and Zane Marquardt, Ada, Quinn, and Jett Wever, and Joi Gardner. Also surviving are her sister, Marilyn Greve of Boulder, CO; brother-in-law, Gerald (Carolyn) Witt of Carlisle, IA, and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to Josh Demichelis for helping Roberta live independently at home to the age of 94. Also, a huge thanks for the loving care given by the entire staff of Independence Village of Ames and Suncrest Hospice.

Donald "Don" Ervin Schramm II Obituary

 

Donald “Don” Ervin Schramm II, age 73, of Russell, IA, passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at his home after a very long illness, under the care of EveryStep Hospice.

Don was born on November 28, 1949, in DuPage County, IL, to Donald E. and Mary Alice (Hillyard) Schramm. He lived in West Chicago until he was 10 years old when he, his mother, and his siblings moved to Chariton, IA. Don then attended school in Chariton, graduating from the Chariton High School with the Class of 1968. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1969 and married Barbara Clark in 1970 just before going to Vietnam. To this union, 3 children were born, Donald III, Sabrina, and Derrick. Don and Barbara later divorced after losing Sabrina in an automobile accident.

In Vietnam, Don was a helicopter crew chief and then a helicopter mechanic. He was discharged in 1972 and moved his family to West Chicago where he helped his father in the family auto body shop. Following his father’s passing in 1985, Don, his wife, and 3 children moved back to Chariton. Don went to work at Deflecta Shield in Corydon where he was head of design and molds for aftermarket vehicle parts.

In 1998, Don married Mary Ann Parker at Lake Miami in Monroe County and they settled in Russell. He went to work at Astoria Industries in Chariton where he again was the head of fiberglass patents and molds department, building all of the molds by hand and supervising all of the fiberglass work.

In his younger years, Don spent the summers helping his dad in the family business. While in West Chicago, Don was a member of an RC Airplane Club and built and flew his own RC planes. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, and fishing. His true joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren.

Don is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; 2 sons, Donald Schramm III of Nevada and Derrick Schramm of Chariton; a brother, Rick Schramm; a sister, Deborah Graham; 4 grandchildren, Matthew Bahr, Leeloominai Marie Schramm, Tearza Joy Schramm, and Cheyenne Vairo; 3 stepsons, Harold (Amy) Major of Albia, Gary “Ed” Major of Ottumwa, and David (Jessica) Major of North Liberty, IA; 9 step grandchildren; and 7 great grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Sabrina Schramm; a stepson, John Major; his parents, Don and Mary Alice Schramm; and a special aunt, Donna Lee.

Per Don’s wishes, his body has been cremated. Due to the Covid virus, a Celebration of Life will be held next spring/summer with interment and military honors at Union Chapel Cemetery in Monroe County.

An open memorial has been established to the family. Mary Ann can be contacted at 641-535-2100 with condolences.

Arlene (Ellis) Sims Obituary

 

November 19, 1929 ~ November 23, 2021 (age 92)

Arlene went to heaven to see her Lord and Savior on November 23, 2021.  She was born to Maudie Carpenter Ellis and Clarence J. Ellis in Washington, Iowa on November 19, 1929.  She graduated from Russell High School in 1948.

Arlene married Lowell Sims on July 8th, 1951 and they were blessed with 63 years together before Lowell passed in July of 2014.  They had two children, Gary and Diana.  Although they lived in several places due to Lowell being transferred, she always considered Russell her home.  In 1983, they retired in Florida and became snowbirds spending most summers in Russell.

Arlene was a legal secretary for most of her career; however, she always had time for her family and tried to make every day special.  Arlene was a compassionate, loving considerate mom, peacemaker/mediator which effectively balanced the giant personality of Lowell and his escapades.

She loved her children and her grandchildren.  Family was very important to her.  She made every holiday, birthday, or accomplishment a special occasion.  She created candy trails, scavenger hunts, and word games.  She wrapped up everything in a beautiful package and turned it into a gift.  Even a lost glove or a pair of new gum socks became a wrapped present of the prize at the end of the scavenger hunt.  She would read and play games by the hours with her kids and grandkids and laugh uncontrollably.

She kept her cool, even when Gary drove his car through the garage door (Yes, she even taught us how to drive) and when Diana broke the Living Room window.  She kept her cool, when Lowell would bring home another old treasure he bought at a garage sale the week prior.  She went to every ballgame, recital, graduation or play in addition to helping with the food or costumes.  She gave her children and grandchildren the support they needed to try their best.  And she would always cook or bake our favorite food to celebrate after events.  All were made to feel special, even if it wasn’t a perfect performance, she let us know that it is important to simply try.

She taught us how to pray before meals, to read the bible and to trust in God.  She truly was the rock in the family (although, she would let Lowell think he was) And, she loved us all unconditionally.  She was our prayer warrior.  We truly knew we were in good hands because we were convinced she had a direct line to God.  She enjoyed being a youth group leader and mentor for young children and teens.  She enjoyed sharing God’s Word with all.

She was continually referencing Philippians 4:11 and 13…For I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.  I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me.

Mom’s memories and traditions will be shared forever within the family.  Mom wasn’t much for material items- however she loved her Gone with the Wind Collector’s plates and her Garden Gnomes-which all of the grandkids are now enjoying.  They will certainly be passed down from generation to generation.  And because she always cooked our favorites for our special days; we will make certain that we add her favorites to future celebrations: Coffee, Pecan Pie, Onion Rings and Chocolate everything.  She lived by the motto eat dessert first which usually meant Chocolate.

Arlene was preceded in death by her Husband Lowell, her Son Gary, Grandson Ryan Sims, Brother Edward Ellis, Sister Doris Bingamen-Fosmark, and her parents.

Arlene is survived by her Daughter Diana (Jim) Willits of Windsor Heights, Daughter-in-law Becky Sims of Ottumwa, and her four grandchildren’ Courtney (Brian Trefil, Fiance’) Willits, of Chicago, Ashley Willits of Ames, Nick Sims of West Des Moines and Zach (Haley) Sims of West Des Moines, Her Sister Hazel Clanin of Russell and Brother Raymond Ellis of Manchester.

Memorials for Arlene may be given to the 1st Baptist Church in Russell, Iowa and the 1st Baptist Church in St. James City, Florida.

“Don’t cry because it’s over- smile because it happened” (Dr. Seuss).

Shirley Anne Miller Obituary

July 23, 1948 - November 23, 2021

 Shirley Miller, 73 of Corydon passed away on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at Corydon Specialty Care. Services will be held at a later date. Memorials made be made in honor of Shirley to your local food banks.

Shirley Anne Miller was born on July 23, 1948, to Carl and Helen Huntley Goering in Chariton. She grew up in the Cambria area and graduated from Wayne of Corydon with the class of 1966. She earned her Bachelor of Special Education from Simpson College in 1983. She taught Special Education at Russell and Chariton Schools for over 10 years.

She met David Miller and they were united in marriage on June 9, 1966, at Eden Baptist Church in Wayne County. To this union they were blessed with daughters, Angela and Carmen. The couple were very active in their faith and were members of the First Baptist Church of Chariton. She was a member of the Lady’s Prayer group and church social committee.

Shirley was known for her generosity and caring “watching over” of others. She was very active with her daughters growing up, taught bible school over 15 years, girl scout leader, 4-H leader, attended and volunteered at many of their school activities. She also enjoyed sewing.

She will be deeply missed by her husband of over 55 years, David; daughters: Angela (Tim) Pollard and Carmen Miller; sibling, Carla (Shawn) Manske; and nieces: Taylor and Kori Manske.

She is preceded by her parents, Carl and Helen.

 

Patricia L. "Pat" Blue Obituary

Services for Patricia “Pat” Blue will be held on Monday, November 29, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Following the service, there will be a time of fellowship and a luncheon at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Russell Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Faith United Methodist Church in Russell or the Russell Volunteer Fire Department.

You may join Pat’s family via livestream at https://my.gather.app/remember/patricia-pat-blue

Patricia L. (Wright) Blue, 91, of Chariton, Iowa passed away November 22, 2021, in Chariton, Iowa. She was born April 29, 1930, in Russell, Iowa, the youngest of three daughters to George and Marie (Davis) Wright.

Her childhood was mostly spent in Russell, with the exception of three years, when her family lived in Chariton. On April 25, 1943, she was baptized and joined the Russell Methodist Church. She graduated from Russell High School with the class of 1948.

Following graduation, Pat attended Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, and received a teaching certificate. She taught four years in the Lucas County rural school system.

On December 2, 1950, she was united in marriage to Clayton Blue. They lived on a farm east of Russell. The couple was blessed with 6 children: Denise, Dan, Julie, Jana, Schuyler, and Scarlett. While her children were young, she was a Sunday School teacher and assisted in Bible School.

Pat was employed in the business office at the Lucas County Health Center for 22 years. She was a plus fifty-year member of Beta Sigma Phi and a past member of the Lucky Thirteen Club. At the time of her passing, she was a member of Faith United Methodist Church in Russell.

Pat cared deeply for family and friends and was a proud mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She was always interested in all of their activities and accomplishments. She especially enjoyed family gatherings and meeting friends for lunch. Pat was a wonderful cook and loved to make holidays special. She was an avid reader, loved to write letters, and enjoyed working crossword and jigsaw puzzles.

Pat was the glue that held the family together. She is dearly missed by her 6 children: Denise Conway, Dan (Wendy) Blue, Julie Blue, Jana Anthony, Schuyler Blue, and Scarlett (Jason) Summers; 12 grandchildren: Morgan McCullough (Blair), Megan (Mike) Arnold, Jeremy (Dana) Blue, Jenny (Scott) McGee, Jamie (Jeremy) Sander, Tyler (Lindsey) Offenburger, April (Brad Noble) Dyer, Marcus Woods, Alyssa Anthony, Alexa Anthony, Christian (Macenzie) Summers, and Kinnick Summers; 17 great grandchildren: Lane, Ashten, Chasen, Graden, Cutler, Kyzer, Elsie, Ryder, Addie, Bailey, Miles, Leah, Hudson, Jacob, Jade, Ava, and Eden Rose; 2 great-great grandchildren, Elodie and Latham; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 63 years, Clayton; great grandson, Max Daniel Sander; sister, Virginia and her husbands, Dean Bown and Harold Cisna; sister, Jeanette and her husband, Dean Thompson; brother-in-law, Gerald Blue and his wife, Suzanne; sister-in-law, Barbara Stevenson and her husband, Raymond; and son-in-law, Pat Conway.

 

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