2016 Obituaries

2016 Obituaries
2015 Obituaries       2014 Obituaries    2013 Obituaries    2012 Obituaries     2011 Obituaries

ON THIS PAGE
Phyllis M. (Weise) Franken; Alice (Hanson) Hemphill; Ronald D. Bloom; Byron J. Brower; Maxine Wright Busskohl; Marguerite Ellis Miller; Wesley A.Bernhardt; Edna Margaret Huff; Della Jean Mau; John W. Ekstrom; Caroline L. Wulf; Richard L. Carstensen; Wallace J. Gonnerman; Steven Ray Bruns; Duane A. Schofield
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FRANKEN, PHYLLIS M. (WEISE)
December 12, 1936 - April 27, 2016

Phyllis M. Franken, age 79, of Odebolt, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 03, 2016 at the United Methodist Church of Odebolt, Iowa. The Reverend Ken Miller will officiate. Visitation will resume at 8:30 a.m. until service time on Tuesday, May 03, 2016, at the church; with coffee and refreshments served in the fellowship hall prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Ida Grove Cemetery of Ida Grove, Iowa. A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 02, 2016, at the Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home, of Odebolt, Iowa. The Christensen - Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online to www.christensenvanhouten.com

Phyllis Marlene Franken was born in Wall Lake, Iowa, on December 12, 1936, to John & Marie “Mary” (Gleim) Wiese.

Growing up in the Lake View and Wall Lake area. Phyllis attended and graduated from Lake View High School with the class of 1954. After graduation she attended two years of college at the Omaha Business School of Omaha, Nebraska. Phyllis was employed by Mutual of Omaha until 1958. She entered into marriage to Herbert D. Hoaglund on June 15, 1958, in the Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Lake View Iowa. Phyllis and Herbert were blessed with three sons, David, Gregg, and Barry.

Working outside of the home, Phyllis worked for ASCS in Ida Grove until 1965. Her beloved husband, Herbert passed away in September of 1967. While living in Arthur, Iowa, Phyllis was employed at Noll’s Books Bookstore and the Arthur Elevator. She entered into marriage to Dale F. Franken on July 28, 1979 in the United Methodist Church of Arthur, Iowa. Dale passed way in 1988.

From 1988 to 2003 Phyllis held various jobs. The Odebolt Elevator, Reiter Feed & Grain and the Odebolt State Bank. She started working at the City of Odebolt as a Deputy City Clerk in 2004 and continued until her retirement in 2011.

Phyllis was involved in PTA, Odebolt Fair Board and the Arthur Methodist Church Board. She enjoyed playing softball and going bowling with her friends and teammates. She like spending time looking at genealogy with her nieces and nephews. Putting any type of puzzle together and reading mystery novels in her spare time.

She treasured her family and friends most of all. She will be remembered fondly for her unique and contagious laughter, and her warm welcoming smile.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving sons, David Hoaglund (special friend Jackie Clausen) of Mapleton, Iowa, Gregg (Sherri) Hoaglund of Carroll, Iowa, Barry Hoaglund of Ankeny, Iowa; grandchildren: Katie Hoaglund, Brittany Hoaglund, Laura Hoaglund, Jonathan Hoaglund, and Zachary Hoaglund; great grandchild, Carter Robertson; brother, Raymond Wiese of Shiner, Texas; sister, Nova Bean of Dunlap, Illinois; extended family and friends.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Wiese; husbands, Herbert Hoaglund and Dale Franken; siblings, June Tjaden and Lorna Tjaden and Alvin Wiese; sister-in-law, Genieva Wiese; brothers-in-law, Vernon Bean, Merlin Tjaden, and Farrell Tjaden; and daughter-in-law, Joan Hoaglund.




HEMPHILL, ALICE V. (HANSON)
June 3, 1918 - April 18, 2016

Alice Virginia Hemphill, age 97, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Monday, April 18, 2016, at the Odebolt Specialty Care Center.  Alice was born on June 3, 1918, in Battle Creek, IA.  She was adopted by Edward and Ella Eliza (Down) Hanson. 

Alice graduated from Odebolt High School and received her Bachelor’s Degree from Morningside College.  She taught high school English for many years.  On April 21, 1946, Alice was united in marriage to Robert W. Hemphill.  They made their home in Odebolt where they raised their children, Joan, Robert (Butch), and Ann.

Alice was a dedicated wife and mother, who cherished spending time with her family and grandchildren.  She was an active member of the United Methodist Church and involved with many church activities.  She enjoyed reading, playing bridge, working on cross word puzzles and playing golf.  Alice was a 75-year member of Chapter DS PEO, a member of Ingleside Club and loved history and the Odebolt Museum.  From 1986-1992 she served on the Board of Directors at New Hope Village.

Survivors include her children: Joan Blassengame Davis of Hampton, VA, Ann Christine Hemphill of Carroll, IA, daughter-in-law Judy Hemphill of Odebolt, grandson Jared R. Hemphill and wife Jill and great-grandson Brayden William Hemphill of Waukee, IA, and extended family members.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert W. Hemphill, and son Robert (Butch) Hemphill.


BLOOM, RONALD D.
January 5, 1930 - April 13, 2016

Ronald D. Bloom, age 86, of Wall Lake, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 18, 2016 at the United Methodist Church of Odebolt, Iowa. The Reverend Ken Miller will officiate. Committal Services will be held in the Wall Lake Cemetery, of Wall Lake, Iowa with military rites conducted by the Roose Post No. 313 of the American Legion, of Odebolt, Iowa. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, April 17, 2016 at the Christensen – Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa. The Christensen - Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online to www.christensenvanhouten.com

Ronald D. Bloom was born on January 5, 1930, in Battle Creek, Iowa, to Anvey and Hilma (Johnson) Bloom. The family farmed in the Ida County area for a year before moving to a farm northeast of Arthur, Iowa in 1931. Ron attended Blaine Township country school through the fourth grade. After fourth grade he attended school in Arthur and graduated from Odebolt High School in 1948.

Following high school, Ron assisted an area farmer before enlisting into the United States Air Force in July of 1951. He was stationed in Springfield, Massachusetts and Iceland before being honorably discharged in July of 1955.

Ron returned home to live with his father in Odebolt, Iowa. Ron started working for Adam’s Ranch cow/calf operation, where he later became a foreman for 10 years.

Ron entered into marriage to Barbara Jean Kyle in the United Methodist Church of Greene, Iowa on December 29, 1957. The couple made their home in Odebolt, Iowa, and were blessed with two children, Jeff and Karen. The family resided in Odebolt for 10 years before relocating to the family farm west of Wall Lake, Iowa in 1966.

Ron was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church of Odebolt, Iowa. He served on the Odebolt Farmer’s Elevator Coop’s Board of Directors from 1986 to 1989.

Ron had a passion for farming and everything related to it. He was a people person with the ability to remember dates, places, and faces. Never knowing a stranger, Ron had the gift to converse with anyone around him.  He enjoyed his annual trips to the Clay County Fair. His true treasure in life were his family and the farm.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Tori Renee Green.


Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 58 years, Barb Bloom of Wall Lake, IA; children, Jeff (Jill) Bloom of Portland, OR, Karen (Marty) Morrow of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren, Matthew and Amanda Bloom of Portland, OR, and Joe Green of Cedar Rapids, IA.



BROWER, BYRON J.
June 22, 1926 -March 19, 2016

Byron J. Brower, 89, of Punta Gorda, Fla., formerly of Sioux City, passed away on Feb. 29, 2016.

A memorial service to celebrate Byron's life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 19, at First United Methodist Church in Punta Gorda.

Byron, the son of John and Gladys Brower, was born June 22, 1926, in Lake View, Iowa. The Brower Hotel in Odebolt was owned by his parents in the 1950s and 1960s. 

Byron served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Byron was the co-founder and president of Brower Construction Company, and Asphalt Paving Contractors for 40 years.

He was a member of the Punta Gorda Elks, Combat Infantrymen's Association Company A, Fort Myers, the Second Indianhead Division Association and First United Methodist Church in Punta Gorda. Byron loved being on the water, boating, and working in his garden. He was a loving husband and a proud father and grandfather.

Byron will be greatly missed by his wife of 62 years, Muriel; daughters, Kristine Cheever and Amy Gleason; brothers, James, Lowell and Robert; grandchildren, Jessica, Joseph, Paul, Megan, Blake, Rachel and Esther; and great-grandchildren, Colton and Chase.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Nyberg.

Memorial donations may be made to AMI Kids Crossroads, 45991 Bermont Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 or Second Indianhead Division Association Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 218, Fox Lake, IL 60020.


BUSSKOHL, MAXINE (WRIGHT)
January 19, 1931 - March 29, 2016

Maxine Esther Busskohl, age 85, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2016, at Odebolt Specialty Care in Odebolt, IA.  Maxine was born on January 19, 1931, near Dow City, IA, to Art and Mary (Nathan) Wright.  She attended grade school at Dow City and graduated from Dow City high school. 
     Maxine was united in marriage to Raymond Busskohl in Denison, IA.  This union was blessed with two daughters: Judy and Debbie.  The family made their home in Odebolt , where Maxine was a homemaker.  They were later divorced.  She helped raise chickens and sell eggs.  Maxine loved to garden and sold her home grown strawberries.  She enjoyed playing cards and spending time with her family.  She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved her.
   Survivors include her children: Judy Winebreaner of TN and Debbie Ogren of Sac City; special friend Virgil Lamaak and daughter Cindy Lawler of Carnarvon, IA; grandchildren: Dustin (Jessica) Ogren of Des Moines, IA, Maisie Ogren of Sac City, IA, and Shawn Jackson of Chicago, IL; great-grandchildren: Ashton and Preston Ogren, Natalie Jackson, and Charlotte Ogren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
   Maxine was preceded in death by her parents and sisters: Daisy Kroger, Ella-May Carlson, Margaret Carlson, and Doris Foster.
   Memorial Services will be held on Monday, April 4, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Odebolt, IA with Pastor Roger Carlisle officiating.  Burial will be in the Wall Lake Cemetery under the direction of the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home.  Visitation will be an hour prior to the service at the funeral home.


Miller, Marguerite Ellis 
May 15, 1929 - March 5, 2016

Marguerite Ellis Miller passed away at the age of 86 on March 5, 2016 in Ida Grove, IA.  Marguerite was the youngest child of nine born on May 15, 1929 in Princeton, N.C. to Frank and Nora Ellis. She was raised on a cotton and tobacco farm in North Carolina.  She attended Rosewood H.S. in Goldsboro, NC and upon graduating in 1947, she went on to attend Louisburg College in Louisburg, NC.  After college, she worked at the Edwin Pou Insurance Agency in Raleigh, NC.  In 1952 she met her husband Donald Miller while he was stationed at Fort Bragg, NC and moved to Iowa in November of 1953.  Last November they celebrated 62 years of marriage.

Marguerite was committed to her family.  She was a strong, hard-working, loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.  Her grandchildren knew her as Grandma Reet and she was Momma Reet to her great-grandchildren. She was best known for her hospitality and great cooking.  She made the best southern fried chicken and southern biscuits and most delicious pies for dessert.   She cooked meals for countless numbers of family, friends, acquaintances and any visitor that come to her door.  Her family will always cherish the memories made around the kitchen table.  She was also an avid reader and a member of the "Birthday Club".  Marguerite had a very strong faith and knew Jesus as her personal Savior and was ready and anxious to spend eternity with Him in Heaven.

Marguerite is survived by her husband Don of Odebolt, IA; children Vicki (Dennis) Ernst of Ida Grove, IA, Kathy (Clayton) Larson of Odebolt, IA,  Linda (Todd) Hoffman of Dell Rapids, SD and Daniel (Cindy) Miller of Boone, IA; son-in-law Jerry Reichart of Lincoln, NE; sister Geneva Ellis and sisters-in-law Ruth Roeder, Florence Wunschel and Vera Miller.  She is also survived by grandchildren Michael, Matthew (Melissa) and Alex Ernst, Danna, David (Sarah) and Chelsea Larson, Adam (Heather), Lucas (Danielle Paulk) and Hanna (Adam Malcolm) Reichart, Kayla and Kristi Hoffman and Dakota, Afton and Mager Miller; step-grandchildren Sydney and Samantha Hultgren and great-grandchildren Angel, Chloe and Elijah Reichart, Ben and Anabelle Larson and Myla Reichart.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Sandra Reichart; siblings Marvin (Ruth) Ellis, Frank Jr. (Rose) Ellis, Norman (Velma) Ellis, Preston (Elma) Ellis, Esther (Robert) Bailey, Edna (Jim) Moore and Anne (Albert) Ravella (Bill) Hall and in-laws Rose (Linus) Terlisner, Blanche (Leo) Thies, Pearl (Harry) Roll, Leo (Irene) Miller, Frances (Ben) Vaughan, Raymond Roeder, Vincent Miller and Marvin Wunschel.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Odebolt with burial in Odebolt Cemetery. Visitation will 4-7 p.m., Tuesday, March 8, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Odebolt. Ernst Funeral & Memorial Services of Ida Grove, Iowa is in charge of arrangements. 


Bernhardt, Wesley A.
October 30, 1927 - March 1, 2016

Wesley Albert Bernhardt, age 88, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2016, at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA.  Wesley was born on October 30, 1927, in Odebolt, IA, to Fred and Isabell (Kallmer) Bernhardt.  He was baptized in 1927 in Odebolt and confirmed into the Catholic faith in 1939 in Schaller, IA.  He was a member of St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Odebolt.

Wesley attended school through the 9th grade in Schaller and graduated from Storm Lake High School.  Following graduation Wesley was inducted into the United States Navy serving from October 1945 through October 1947 earning the rank of SC-1 First Class Seaman.

On December 29, 1952, Wesley was united in marriage to Aloysia Bengford at the Catholic Church in Early, IA.  They were blessed with five children: Sandie, Linda, Cheryl, Gary and Keith.

Wesley worked hard farming and as a car salesman to provide for his family, retiring in 1993.  His life was centered around his family.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother who cherished spending time with his family and friends.  Family gatherings brought him great joy. He will be missed by all who knew him.  Wesley also enjoyed watching sports programs on television. 

Survivors include his children: Sandie (Kenneth) Fineran of Norfolk, NE, Linda (Jerry) Youngren of Odebolt, Cheryl (Ward) Meeves of Yorba Linda, CA, Gary Bernhardt of Sheldon, IA, and Keith (Gina) Bernhardt of Lakewood, CO;  grandchildren: Jeff (Leah) Fineran of Norfolk, NE, Travis (Tami Estlund) Youngren of Odebolt, Chastity and Collin Meeves both of Yorba Linda, CA, Jared (significant other Megan) Bernhardt of Sheldon, IA, Justin Surat and Austin Surat both of Chandler, AZ, Halee, Cameron and Daniel Bernhardt all of Columbus, GA; great-grandchildren: Maddilyn and Blaine Fineran of Norfolk, NE; and Harlow Youngren of Odebolt.  Other survivors include his brothers and sisters: Bob Bernhardt of Clarion, IA, Arlene Grundmeier of Storm Lake, IA, Richard (Margie) Bernhardt of Leola, PA, and LaDon (Norma) Bernhardt of Florissant, MO; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Wesley was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Isabell Bernhardt; wife Aloysia Bernhardt; brother James Bernhardt; daughter-in-law Gretchen Bernhardt; sister-in-law Lois Bernhardt; and brother-in-law Art Grundmeier.

Mass of the Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 7, 2016, St. Martin's Catholic Church in Odebolt.  Visitation 4:00-7:00 p.m. with 3:30 p.m. Rosary Sunday, March 6, 2016 at St. Martin's. Burial in St. Martin's Catholic Cemetery, Odebolt, Iowa. 



Huff, Edna Margaret
May 7, 1921 - February 17, 2016

Edna Margaret Huff passed away peacefully on February 17, 2016, at Twilight Acres Care Center in Wall Lake, IA.  Edna was born May 7, 1921, on the family farm South of Wall Lake to Charles Johnson and Anna Zimmerman Johnson.  She was baptized in the Wall Lake Methodist Church and completed 8th grade in country school.

On August 26, 1936, Edna married John (Jack) Huff in Sedalia, MO. They made their home in Odebolt, IA until the start of WWII when they moved to Jackson, MI where Jack worked in a war factory.  After the war, they returned to Odebolt and in 1952, they moved to the Johnson family home place South of Wall Lake. In 1996, they moved to Lake View.  Jack passed away in 2001 and she lived there until October of 2014 when she entered Twilight Acres Care Center in Wall Lake where she enjoyed all the activities until the last few days before her death.
 
Her children and all her grandchildren were all very special to her.  She enjoyed their visits and always encouraged and supported them, as well as their friends who often came out to the farm with the grandkids to visit.

Edna loved caring for, cooking and baking for her family.  She was known for her good bread and pies.  She had a green thumb and raised beautiful gardens and flowers.  She loved quilting and finishing antiques. She was also a talented painter.  She loved the poetry and the writings of Robert Frost and also wrote and easily recited poetry of her own.  She was an avid reader of all types of literature as well as the daily newspapers.
  
Edna was a Charter member of the Wall Lake Lions Club, had been a member of the American Home section of the Wall Lake Women’s Club, a member of the Care Review Committee at Twilight Acres,  and an Elder and active member of the UPW at Wheatland Presbyterian Church.  Prior to moving to Twilight Acres, she was a member of the Lake View Library Poetry Club. 
  
Survivors include her two children: Dennis (Edie) Huff of Monroe, WA and Joyce (Ronald) Bettin of Lake View, IA;  five grandchildren: Gary (Karin) Huff of Anita, IA, Tami Huff of Tacoma, WA, Mark Huff of WA, Janelle (Wade) Reed of Bagley, IA, and John Huff of WA; great-grandchildren Aaron Divis of Columbus, NE, Jill Huff of Omaha, NE, Drew Davis of Ames, IA, Alex Davis of Minnetonka, MN, Nick Davis of Cedar Falls, IA, Sierra Huff of Monroe, WA, and Ashley Porsch of Indianola, IA: three great-great grandchildren: Liam Davis, Jordan Divis, and Kylar Lavallee; and all of those kids who loved her and knew her as Grandma Huff as well.
  
Edna was preceded in death by her parents; husband Jack; brothers: Lloyd, Edwin, and Nolan; sisters: Bernice (Gerkie) Jansen and Mina (Laurence) Brinker; granddaughter Sherry Lynn Huff; grandson Frank Bettin; and stepsons: Gordon Huff and Sidney Huff.
  
Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 5th, 2016, at the Wheatland Presbyterian Church of rural Breda, IA.  Visitation will be from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the Memorial Service.  The Rev. Don Gibson will officiate.  Inurnment will be in the South Wall Lake Cemetery under the direction of the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home.
 


MAU, DELLA JEAN
October 19, 1942 - February 20, 2016

Della Jean Mau, age 73, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2016, at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA.

Della was born on October 19, 1942, to Clifford Albert and Henrietta “Etta” Josephine (Miller) Albrecht at their home in Odebolt, IA.  Della was baptized and confirmed her faith at Trinity Lutheran Church where she remained a life-time member.  She attended school through eighth grade at Odebolt.

On August 5, 1961, Della was united in marriage to the love of her life, Eugene Mau.  This union was blessed with three children: Darla, Patrick and Marnie.  Della loved being a homemaker and caring for her family.
She loved to bake and decorate cakes for all the family celebrations and work on beautiful crafts that she shared with family and friends, but what gave her the most joy was spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Eugene Mau of Odebolt; daughter, Darla Lawson and husband Roger of Missouri Valley, IA; son, Patrick Mau and wife Tamara of Odebolt, IA; 12 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.  Other survivors include her sisters: Dorothy Sweeden of Arthur, IA and Lois Grote and husband Leo of Wall Lake, IA; brother Cliffton Albrecht and wife Carolyn of Spencer, IA; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and many friends.

Della was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Marnie Marie Mau; sister Lola Marron; brother Raymond Albrecht; niece Billie Jo Sweeden; and grandson Michael Dunlop.



EKSTROM, JOHN W.
February 12, 1923 - February 16, 2016

John W. Ekstrom, age 93, of Odebolt, Iowa was welcomed into his heavenly home on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at his residence of Odebolt, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 20, 2016 at the Faith Lutheran Church of Odebolt, Iowa.  The Reverend Trish Underberg will officiate.  Committal services will be held at the Odebolt Cemetery with military rites conducted by the Roose Post No. 313 of the American Legion, both of Odebolt, Iowa.  The Christensen - Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa is in charge of the funeral arrangements. 

John Willard Ekstrom was born on February 12, 1923, in rural Kiron, Iowa, to Carl John “Edwin” and Anna Katherine (Ogren) Ekstrom.

John was baptized into his faith on July 1, 1923 and confirmed on June 23, 1938 at the Bethel Lutheran Church of rural Kiron, Iowa. Growing up on a farm outside of Kiron, John enjoyed working hard with his parents, sister, Carolyn and brother Norris.  He attended country school in Wheeler Township in Section 19 and went on to attend the Odebolt High School and graduated with the class of 1940.

He was drafted into the United States Army in 1944 and trained as a medic at Durham, North Carolina. John was united into marriage with Bonnie “Jean” Hill on January 21, 1951. They would chuckle that a Lutheran married a Methodist in a Presbyterian Church in Odebolt, Iowa. The Methodist Church was under construction at the time. The couple made their home in rural Kiron, but later moved to the Hill family farm south east of Odebolt, Iowa. John and Jean were blessed with a son, Kenneth Allen. As a family, they continued to work and live on the century farm until John and Jean retired into the town of Odebolt in 1988.

John lost Jean after a courageous two-year fight with breast cancer on June 28, 1990. He later went on to marry Donna Druivenga on August 9, 1997 in the Faith Lutheran Church of Odebolt, Iowa. Donna passed away on March 18, 2004.

John was a faithful member of the Faith Lutheran Church of Odebolt, Iowa. He was a very active Mason and currently belonged to Wheeler Lodge #398 serving as their present Chaplain. John received his Master Mason Degree in 1974, Masonic Instructor Certificate in 1983 and District Lecturer Certificate #2894 in 1986.  John served the Grand Lodge of Iowa as a Junior Grand Stewart from 1991-1992 and a Junior Grand Deacon from 1998-1999. He was also Worthy Patron twenty-four times of the Order of the Eastern Star and held memberships in Odebolt, Arthur and Carroll due to consolidations over the years.

He was elected to join the Sioux City Scottish Rite and became a 32nd Degree Mason in March 1988.  John was honored with a Knight Commander Court of Honour on October 3, 2005.

John enjoyed his community and served on several boards throughout the years, including past chairman for Production Credit Association of Storm Lake, Iowa and past chairman of the ASC County Committee of Sac County. John was an active member of Roose Post No. 313 of American Legion of Odebolt, Iowa.

He enjoyed farming, reading the paper, bowling in his younger years, watching westerns and game shows, playing bingo at the Odebolt Nursing Home, sharing community lunch with fellow “60 and Above” friends at the local community building, keeping up on current events and especially noting the markets in general.

John will be remembered as a family man who enjoyed his grandchildren, his forty-three years of dedication to the fraternal brotherhood of Masons and having a smile for everyone. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who have known him.

Left to cherish his memory are his son and his wife, Kenneth and Jerilyn Stehr Ekstrom of Odebolt, Iowa; grandchildren, Allen Ekstrom of Storm Lake, Iowa and David Ekstrom of Ankeny, Iowa; sister-in-law, Genevieve Ekstrom of Vero Beach, Florida; nieces, Kathy Smith and her husband Rick of Marion, Texas, Kristi Strech and her husband Les of Katy, Texas; nephew, Paul Hopper of San Antonio, Texas; extended family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Carl (Edwin) and Anna Ekstrom; brother, Norris Ekstrom; and sister, Carolyn Hopper and brother-in-law Herman Hopper.

John will be laid to rest next to his late wife Jean Ekstrom.
 


WULF, CAROLINE LOUISE
November 17, 1931 - February 14, 2016

Caroline Louise Wulf, age 84, of Odebolt, IA, passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, on Sunday, February 14, 2016.   SERVICES: 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, Trinity Lutheran Church. Odebolt.  VISITATION: 4-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 16, Trinity Lutheran Church, Odebolt.

Caroline was born on November 17, 1931, in Boyer, IA, to parents John and Esther (Pithan) Stehr.  Caroline grew up in Boyer and attended country school there and graduated from Odebolt High school.  She was baptized and confirmed in the St. John Lutheran Church in rural Kiron, IA.

On November 17, 1949, she was united in marriage to Peter F. Wulf at the St. John Lutheran Church in rural Kiron, IA.  This union was blessed with five children: Dale, Gary, Mary, Roy and Karen. Caroline and her husband farmed in Boyer for many years.  They later retired and moved to Odebolt where Caroline was a homemaker. 

In her free time, Caroline liked to read, crochet, put puzzles together and play cards.  Caroline always made time for her family and spent lots of time with her grandkids.  She made it a tradition to have family dinners on Sundays. Caroline was a devoted mother and grandmother, who loved her family and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children: Gary (Ruth) Wulf of Odebolt, IA, Mary (Darwyn) Bettin of Early, IA, and Karen Lucht (Wayne Luckow) of Odebolt, IA; daughter-in-law Jan (Bruce) Henderson; grandchildren: Jason (Beth) Wulf, Jeff (Jeanette) Wulf, Keith (Sarah) Wulf, Kyle (Cinnamon) Wulf, Heather (Mike) Spetman, Amber (Matt) Martin, Sarah (Nick) Gunn, Emily (Jamie) Reed, Katie Lucht, and Nathan (Amber) Lucht; 17 great-grandchildren: brothers: Lester (Frieda) Stehr of Odebolt, IA, and Wayne (Nel) Stehr of New Castle, OK; sister Elaine Nemitz of Charter Oak, IA; sister-in-law Anita Baker of Ida Grove, IA; many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her sons: Dale and Roy Wulf; son-in-law David Lucht; parents; and husband Peter F. Wulf.



CARSTENSEN, RICHARD L.
October 1, 1946 - February 1, 2016

Richard L. Carstensen, age 69, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away suddenly on February 1, 2016. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, February 5, 2016.

Rich Carstensen was born on October 1, 1946 in Odebolt, IA to Evangeline and Jules Carstensen. He grew up on a farm near Odebolt, where he developed an interest in horses and farming. He attended Odebolt High School. After a time at Bethel College, he was drafted into the US Army and served in Viet Nam. He attended classes at Iowa State, then moved to St. Paul, MN where he worked as a veterinarian technician. He returned home to Odebolt to farm and met, fell in love with, and married Linda Ladeburg. To this union, two daughters were born; Libby and Holly. After a short time of farming in Rolla, Missouri, the family moved back to Odebolt. After raising the girls, Rich and Linda moved to Des Moines. Rich worked at Wesley Acres as a Certified Medical Aide in the Memory Care unit. This  work was very fulfilling for Rich.  He retired in 2013.

Rich loved his grandsons, Zane and Ian.

He very much enjoyed volunteering in the children's ministry at his church and going to the Iowa State Fair annually at least once and often, more times.

Rich was preceded in death by his mother and father and his sister and brother-in-law Linda and Dick Short.

Survivors include wife, Linda Carstensen, West Des Moines, daughters Libby Carstensen of Cardiff, CA, and Holly Green, and son-in-law Andrew Green, grandsons Zane and Ian Green, of Fallbrook, CA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lutheran Church of Hope's Children's Ministry.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel


GONNERMAN, WALLACE J.
April 7, 1929 - January 30, 2016

Wallace John Gonnerman, age 86, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Twilight Acres in Wall Lake, IA.  Wallace was born on April 7, 1929 to  Christopher “Chris” and Helina “Lena” (Kuypers) Gonnerman in Sac County, IA.  He grew up on the farm outside of Odebolt and attended country school at Levey #4  and graduated the 8th grade.  Wallace was baptized on June 9, 1929, in the Lutheran Faith and later was confirmed at the Peace Lutheran Church in Wall Lake.  Wallace served his country by joining the US Army in January 1951 during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in October 1952.
   On June 17, 1953, Wallace was united in marriage to Shirley (Albrecht) Gonnerman at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Odebolt, IA.  This union was blessed with four children: Amy, Randal, Wendy and Michael.  They made their home outside of Odebolt where Wallace farmed.   He loved the farm life and was a devoted father and husband. When Wallace wasn’t busy on the farm, he loved to ride the Gator with his dog, Max or enjoy coffee and sweets with friends.   He will be truly missed by those who knew and loved him.
   Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Shirley Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA; children: Amy Rasmussen of Odebolt, IA, Randal Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA, Wendy (Nicholas) Manteris of Irving, TX, and Michael (Teresa) Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA; one grandchild Christina (Kenneth) Walsh; two great-grandchildren: Nichole and Kenny Walsh; four step grandchildren; 12 step great-grandchildren: brother-in-law Clifford Wunschel; sister-in-law Betty Albrecht; and many other extended family members.
   He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Raymond (Berdena) Gonnerman and Roy Gonnerman; and sister Darlene Wunschel.

BRUNS, STEVEN RAY
July 26, 1954 - January 22, 2016
 
Steven Ray Bruns, age 61, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Friday, January 22, 2016, at his home in Odebolt.  

Steven was born on July 26, 1954, to parents Fred and Doris (Streed) Bruns in Sac City, IA and grew up on the farm North East of Sac City. He was baptized and confirmed his faith at the St. Paul Lutheran Church.  He attended grade school in Sac City, and graduated Sac City High School in 1972.  He then continued his education with one year at Iowa Central Community College. 

On June 21, 1975, Steven was united in marriage to Cheryl D. Wiley in Newell, IA.  This union was blessed with three children: Sonny, Stacy and Scott.

Steven worked many years in construction and drove truck up until his retirement in December 2013.  Steven enjoyed racing, motorcycling, hunting, and any outdoor activity.  He was a Boy Scout leader and a t-ball/little league coach. He also was a Sunday school teacher and catechism teacher for a few years.  Steven always made time for his family, and enjoyed being around his grandchildren.  He will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.     

Survivors include his father Fred J. Bruns of Sac City, IA; children: Sonny (Tracy) Bruns of Britt, IA, Stacy (Jeff) Talbott of Lytton, IA, and Scott (Liz) Bruns of Lake City, IA; grandchildren: Chrysta, Alex (Fern), Laura and Danielle Bruns, SaraJo, and Jewel Talbott, and Kyra and Briley Bruns; brother Fred T. (Rosey) Bruns of Sac City, IA; sister Sandra (the late Donald Weitzel) of Wall Lake, IA; and other extended family members and many friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother Doris Bruns, ex wife Cheryl Bruns, and numerous aunts, uncles, and other family. 

Memorial services will be held at 7:00 pm, Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Sac City, IA with Pastor Trish Underberg officiating.  Visitation is prior to the service starting at 4:00 pm, Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Sac City.  There will be a private family inurnment at a later date.


SCHOFIELD, DUANE A. 
November 2, 1935 - January 26, 2016

Duane A. Schofield, age 80, of Odebolt, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at his residence of Odebolt, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, January 29, 2016 at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Odebolt, Iowa. The Reverend David Lyons will officiate. Committal Services will be in the St. Peters Lutheran Cemetery of rural Sac City, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, January 28, 2016 at the Christensen – Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa. Condolences may be sent online to www.christensenvanhouten.com 

Duane August Schofield was born on November 2, 1935, in Calhoun County, Iowa, to Frederick and Bertha (Ramthun) Schofield. Duane was baptized into his faith at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Rockwell City, Iowa, and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Knoke, Iowa.

Duane grew up on the family farm in Calhoun County, where he attended school at Jolley and graduated with the class of 1953.

After high school, Duane continued his education at a school of business in Omaha, Nebraska. He then enlisted into the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany for eighteen months. He was honorably discharged on April 23, 1959.

Duane married the love of his life, Janis Lynn Kleen, on June 5, 1960, at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Rockwell City. They made their home in Lytton and were blessed with six children: Daniel, Mark, Thomas, John, Kara, and Steven.

For more than 50 years, Duane worked in the banking business. He was employed at Lytton Savings Bank for approximately 25 years. In 1980, the family moved to Odebolt, where he continued to work in banking, retiring from United Bank of Iowa in 2010. He thoroughly enjoyed his work and when asked about his favorite part of the job, he replied, “being in a position to help people out.”

Duane loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He enjoyed following the UNI Panthers men’s basketball team, as well as the Minnesota Twins. His hobbies included playing cards, gardening, going to flea markets, and antique hunting with Janis. He was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Odebolt, holding numerous leadership positions throughout the years.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 55 years, Janis; children: Daniel of Cedar Falls, Mark (Jodi) of Peachtree City, Georgia, Thomas (Danell) of Cedar Falls, John (Karen) of Cedar Falls, Kara (Troy) Neville of Odebolt, and Steven (fiancée Megan Brown) of Cedar Falls; grandchildren: Tisha (James) Lindgren, Tristan (Joe) Smeins, Lorrin Schofield, Chet Schofield, Emily Schofield, Carter Schofield, Evan Schofield, Brenna Neville, Mallory Neville, and Cade Neville; three great grandchildren: Knox, Beckham, and Ava Lindgren; sisters, Marjorie Hoefing of Manson, and Lavon Weiss of Rockwell City; and extended family.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Bertha Schofield; brothers Louis Schofield and Donald Schofield; and sister Marie Mack.


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