Iowa Living Magazines

Cheryl ‘Cherie’ Faktor

A celebration of life service for Cheryl “Cherie” Faktor, 63, who died Feb. 23, 2022, in Des Moines, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, March 4, at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. The family requests those in attendance dress casually.
Cherie married Mark on Oct. 12, 1991 and was a full-time mother to their children, Brandon and Dillon. She created her own small business, selling a line of goat’s milk products she made from the goats she raised and milked each season. She also created wool products from the many different fiber animals she raised and sheared, often spinning her own yarn. She donated time and resources to no-kill shelters and helped educate others on pet care and breed knowledge. Cherie was a veterinarian technician and dog groomer for many years. She was also a recurring judge for the cat show at the Iowa State Fair. She is survived by her husband, sons, and other relatives and friends.
A full obituary is online at www.overtonfunerals.com.

Rebecca Ann Wright Elbert

Rebecca Ann Wright Elbert, 67, died Feb. 18, 2022. Becky was raised on a farm east of Milo. She graduated high school from Southeast Warren, then received her associate’s degree from DMACC. She worked in Indianola where she met and married her husband of 37 years, Tim Elbert.
She is survived by her husband, Tim Elbert of Skiatook, Oklahoma; children, Randi (Grant) Marshall, Mitch (Chelsea) Elbert, and Ethan Elbert; and other relatives and friends. A funeral mass was held Feb. 26 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Indianola.

Elizabeth “Liz” Parr

Elizabeth “Liz” Parr, 79, died Feb. 22, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice in Johnston. Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, at Memorial Services of Iowa, 4208 N. Ankeny Blvd.
Her family lived in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, then Port Huron, Michigan, where she graduated high school from Port Huron Catholic High School in 1960. The next year, her family moved to Marshalltown, where she met the love of her life, Steve Parr. Liz graduated from Marshalltown Community College in 1962. Liz and Steve married on May 1, 1965, and had two children, Jenny and Dave Parr. She worked for Boss Van Lines, Welcome Wagon, and she sold Avon. When her children were older, she worked as a secretary for the Marshalltown Area Catholic Schools for 14 years. In 1989, she went to work in administration for the Iowa Department of Transportation in Ames, where she eventually retired from in 2004.
In August 1992, Steve got a promotion with his job and they moved to Boone, where they resided for the next 20 years. After her children were grown, Liz graduated with a bachelor’s degree in May 1997 from Iowa State University. She continued her education, taking graduate-level classes and enrolling in the culinary program at DMACC. Long after retirement, Liz and Steve moved to Ankeny
She often volunteered her time for Goodwill Industries of Central Iowa at the Boone retail store, for Iowa Public Radio/Television, and anything her kids were involved with including Little League and Boy and Girl Scouts.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Steve; children Jenny Parr of Lawrence, Kansas, and Dave (Shelbe) Parr of Ankeny, and other relatives and friends.

Dr. Ollie J Weigel

Dr. Ollie J Weigel, 99, died Feb. 23, 2022, at his home in Ankeny. A funeral service was held Wednesday, March 2 at Ankeny First United Methodist Church with burial immediately following at Ankeny Memorial Gardens.
He married Mary Kathryn Finnegan on June 3, 1944. He was a First Lieutenant in the United States Army Air Force from 1943 to 1945 in the European Theatre of Operations. He was also a lifetime member of the American Legion.
After serving in the military, Ollie attended Simpson College for his undergraduate degree and went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa in 1951.
The family moved to Ankeny in 1951 where he opened a dental office and owned and worked there until he retired in 1994. Many patients knew him as Dr. Ollie. He was a lifetime member of the American Dental Association, Iowa Dental Association and Des Moines District Dental Association.
Dr. Ollie was very active in the Ankeny Community. He was a member of the Lions International Club (1951-1994), member of the Board of Adjustment (1953-1958), charter member of the Ankeny Chamber of Commerce for life and president in 1953 and 1970, member of the Ankeny Planning and Zoning Commission (1953-1965), member of the Ankeny City Council (1966-1973), president of Central Iowa Regional Governments in 1978, chairman of Mid Iowa Association Local Governments in 1983, member of the Des Moines Area Metro Forum (1985-1993), member emeritus for the Des Moines Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board in 1993, member of the foundation board of On With Life (1994-2000), member of the Advisory Directors Board for Brenton Bank of Ankeny (1994-2000), member of the Metro Planning Organization (1995-2000), president of the League of Iowa Municipalities (1996-1997), member of the Board of Directors for Neveln Resource Center (1996-2000), member of the Polk County Aviation Authority (2001-2003), member of the Ankeny Community School District Foundation Board of Directors and named to the Hall of Fame in 2007, and a lifetime member of the Ankeny Industrial Development Board.
Dr. Ollie was also a member of the Ankeny City Council from 1966-1973 and went on to become Mayor of Ankeny from 1974-1994. During that time, he won the Outstanding Citizen of Ankeny Award in 1976 and 1993, and was named to the Mayor’s Hall of Fame from 1993-1996.
As mayor, he was very involved with the growth of Ankeny, helping to bring Des Moines Area Community College, On With Life, the airport, and many other businesses to the city.
Dr. Ollie was preceded in death by his wife, Mary K. (Finnegan) Weigel. He is survived by his children, Dr. John (Karla) Weigel, Marilyn Weigel, Larry (Kathy Mamanos) Weigel, and Sue (Dan) Hagan and many other family and friends. n

Sally Oldham

Sally Oldham, 73, of Winterset, died Feb. 22, 2022, after living with Alzheimer’s for many years. She graduated from Winterset High School in 1966 and attended Lindenwood College before graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder in 1970. After college, Sally lived in Europe for several months before returning to teach high school speech/drama and English in Rake then at Southeast Warren in Liberty Center. On Feb. 2, 1974, Sally married David Oldham at the Chesnut family home in Winterset. David and Sally had two children, Courtney and Zachary.
Sally spent many years staying home in Des Moines with her children. During that time, she was a Campfire leader, started a cooking co-op with two friends, helped with the family-owned rental properties, worked part-time at the P.E.O. Executive Office, and sold wedding invitations out of her home. In 1995, the family moved from Des Moines to Sally’s childhood home in Winterset. Sally tutored at the elementary school and worked as the tour organizer/director at Union State Bank for 13 years before retiring in 2013. While working at the bank, she organized too many trips to count and traveled the world. Sally also held positions on the Winterset Library Board and the Madison County Historical Society Board. She was an active member of P.E.O. both in Des Moines (Chapter LS) and Winterset (Chapter AG), holding officer positions in both chapters. She was also a member of Progressive Study Club and Madison County Antique Club in Winterset. Sally loved Winterset, and, in 2001, she received the Citizen of the Year award.
She is survived by her husband, David, of Winterset; her children, Courtney (Rob) Rose of Urbandale and Zach of Des Moines; and many other relatives and friends.
Visitation is Thursday, March 3, 4-7 p.m. at Caldwell-Parrish Funeral Home - Winterset Chapel, 1823 N. John Wayne Dr. Celebration of Life is at 11 a.m. Friday, March 4, also at Caldwell-Parrish Funeral Home. A full obituary is available online at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Aria Lane Arrington

Aria Lane Arrington, 10 days old, died Feb. 23, 2022. Her name means “Lioness” and “A Melody.” She is survived by her parents, Ryan and Abigail. Funeral service was held Feb. 28 at New Bridge Church in Winterset. Burial followed in the Winterset Cemetery. A full obituary is available online at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Jane Morgan

Jane Morgan, 77, of Johnston, died on Feb. 21, 2022, of natural causes. She grew up in the Des Moines area and graduated from St. John’s High School in 1962 and Mercy School of Nursing in 1965. Jane married Ronald Morgan in 1968 and worked as a nurse for many years. She and Ron had three children: Michael, Joseph and Juliane. Ron preceded her in death.
After retiring from nursing, Jane worked as a pastoral care minister and was active in her church as a lector and eucharistic minister. A mass of Catholic burial will be held at Holy Trinity Church on Thursday, March 3 at 10 a.m. Her cremains will be laid to rest in Glendale Cemetery immediately following the service.

Sondra “Sonie” Kay Oswald

Sondra “Sonie” Kay Oswald, 82, died Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022, at Mercy West Lakes in West Des Moines. Per Sondra’s wishes, there will be a private Celebration of Life with her family.
She married Bill Oswald, and they made their home in Des Moines. Sonie and Bill had three children; Mark, Kim and Kathy. Sonie was a licensed cosmetologist for 25 years. She owned and operated The 5 Shears salon for 10 years, retiring in 1982. After she retired from the beauty industry, she worked in assisted living at Bishop Drumm. She received the Sister of Mercy Award for her compassionate service to others. A full obituary is online at IlesCares.com.

Carol-Faith Cooper

Carol-Faith Cooper, 89, died Monday, Feb. 21, 2022. Growing up, she lived in Boone, Shenandoah and Des Moines. She attended Roosevelt High School where she was first chair tuba player in the band. She was a life-long member of First Baptist Church of Des Moines. During her late teens, Carol earned money for college working as an operator at the telephone company. She attended Grand View University and studied education, later serving as a teacher’s associate and librarian in the Des Moines public schools.
In 1951, she married Ralph Cooper, and they raised three children: Brent, Greg and Shellie. Ralph and Carol loved adventure and the outdoors. During summer months, they took their family to help operate summer camps at Mitigwa Boy Scout Camp and Forest Lake Baptist Camp. She volunteered at church and the Salvation Army, was a Cub Scout den mother, made hospital visits and ran Bible day camp.

Helen N. Walker

Helen N. Walker, 96, died at home on Feb. 19, 2022. A memorial service was held Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022, at Iles Westover Chapel. Interment was Feb. 28 at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery near Van Meter.
She graduated from Tripoli High School in Tripoli in 1942 and married Paul Walker on Oct. 11, 1942. Helen traveled with Paul while he was training for the Army Air Corp and worked at the Rath Packing Company while he was serving in England. After Paul’s discharge from the military, they settled in Waterloo where she was primarily a homemaker but worked some as a waitress at the Tavern on the Green Bowling Alley, Electric Park Ballroom, and Sunnyside Country Club. In 1960, Helen and Paul purchased the Pastime Lounge in Eagle Grove and operated that business until 1984. They later managed various apartment units in Colorado and Des Moines. He preceded her in death in 2006. Arrangements were handled by Iles Westover Chapel.

Kregg LeRoy Ferguson

Kregg LeRoy Ferguson, 73, of Altoona died peacefully at his home on Feb. 13, 2022, with his wife of 27 years, Doris, by his side. He grew up in Dunbar and LeGrand. He attended LDF School District and graduated 1967. After high school, he worked at Fisher Control in Marshalltown before finding a job he truly enjoyed as a meat cutter for Fareway, Safeway and HyVee. He retired from HyVee after 33 years with the company.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 5 from 3-5 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines.

Mark Allen McGrew

Mark Allen McGrew, 51, of Altoona died Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. He graduated from high school in Tyler County, West Virginia. Mark then attended trucking school. In 1994, he met his wife, Mary Erickson, and they were married on Aug. 13, 1994. They settled in Des Moines and then in Altoona where they raised their family. Mark was employed by Heartland Co-op as a truck driver.
In 2008, Mark received the gift of a new heart at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Mark biked with the Des Moines Cycling Club, and he and Mary were members of the Iowa Jeep Club, Jeep Outdoor Club of Iowa, and SW Iowa Jeep Club.
No services are planned at this time.

Patrick David Lantz

Patrick “Pat” David Lantz, 62, of Adel, died unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, Feb.15, 2022. A funeral service was held Feb. 22 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home - McCalley Chapel in Adel. Burial was at Panther Creek Cemetery west of Adel.
He attended school in Redfield, but started working at the Redfield Elevator at a young age, before working in many restaurants, including Tiny’s Horse “N” Buggy, Perkins and The Villa, among others, before pursuing his dream of opening his own restaurant, Patrick’s, in 1995 with his love, Lisa Mickael. Pat poured his heart and soul into cooking and creating a successful and well-known family business for the last 27 years.
He is survived by his father, David Lantz (Linda); his love of 32 years, Lisa Mickael; his two children, Justin Lantz (Kari) and Elisabeth Mickael; his two step children, Melissa Mickael and Justin Mickael (Kady); and many other relatives and friends.
A full obituary can be found at www.caldwellparrish.com.

James P. Koher

James P. Koher, 53, died Feb. 9, 2022, at Kavanagh House Hospice in Des Moines. He graduated from Bishop Dwenger High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and attended Michigan University before graduating from Ball State University with a bachelor of science degree in actuarial science. He obtained his Fellow of Society of Actuaries (FSA) designation in 1999 and worked in the insurance industry throughout his career. He most recently spent 13 years with Homesteaders Life in Des Moines, where he was executive vice president and chief actuary. He was also president and co-owner of Brighter Future Holdings, LLC, along with his wife, Chanda Koher.
A memorial gathering will be held from 3-5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 26 at Iles Dunn’s Chapel in Des Moines.

Daniel Thompson

Daniel Thompson, 53, of Urbandale, died at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines on Tuesday, Feb. 15. He graduated from Valley High School in 1987 and later attended Arizona State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in communications.
He worked for various banks and mortgage companies in Phoenix after graduating college. He later started up his own mortgage company called Sunrise Loan Services.
Due to health issues related to his juvenile diabetes, he suffered renal failure in 2003 and, shortly after, suffered three strokes. This resulted in him having to learn the basics, like learning how to walk, eat, talk and think all over again. This was the start of his long journey with health issues, including more minor strokes. After 15 months of dialysis, he received his mother’s kidney and later a pancreas from a donor in 2005.
He is survived by parents Sandy of Urbandale and Duane of Forest City, and other family and friends.

Benjamin Morgan Kelly

Benjamin Morgan Kelly, 88, died Feb. 17, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Services were Feb. 22 at First Presbyterian Church in Dallas Center. Burial followed at Brethren Cemetery near Dallas Center.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Ben married Frances Johnston in 1978, and they made their home on a farm in Waukee. She preceded him in death. For the last five years, Ben has been loved and supported by his companion, Marilyn Hawbaker, who survives him.
Ben was a member of the Dallas Center American Legion and the Dallas Center Coffee Club. He is survived by his three sons, Joe (Lori) Kelly of Adel, Benjamin (Denise) Kelly Jr. of Dallas Center, and Stephen (Cynthia) Schoch of Marietta, Georgia; and many other friends and relatives.
The family received friends Feb. 21, at Iles Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center. A full obituary can be found at IlesCares.com.

Fern J. Dickey

Fern J. Dickey, 97, of Urbandale, died Feb. 15, 2022, at the Urbandale Health Care
Center. She graduated from Waukee High School in 1941. She married Lloyd on June 23, 1945. They made their home in Mitchellville before moving to Urbandale in 1957. Fern worked at Sears until she retired in 1984. Fern and Lloyd were married for 57 years before his passing.
She is survived by daughters Linda Keasey of Madrid, Sheryl Westbrook (Dan) of Altoona and son Dennis Dickey of Urbandale and other relatives and friends.
A full obituary is online at www.ilesfuneralhomes.com.

Lola McKnight

Lola McKnight 80, of Norwalk, died Friday, February 18, 2022, at Ramsey Village in Des Moines. A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, Feb. 25, 2022, from 5-7 p.m. at the Merle Hay Funeral Home, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines. There will be no formal service. Memorials may be directed to the Animal Rescue League or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Lola graduated from Lincoln High School. On Nov. 14, 1992, Lola married Jerald Earl McKnight at the Scotch Ridge Church in rural Warren County. The couple made their home in rural Norwalk. She worked at Norwest Bank as payroll manager at the time of her retirement after 20 years.
She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Jerry; children, Deanna (Robert) Bridges, Cindy (Steve) Tonasket and Gary Friedmeyer, stepdaughter, Julie (Paul) Holmes; and other relatives and friends.

Robert Aaron Adams

Funeral services for Robert Aaron Adams, 52, who died Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, at home, were held Feb. 22 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. Cremation followed services.
He graduated from Prairie City-Monroe High School and went on to study at Western Iowa Tech where he received his LPN license. He is survived by the love of his life, Tina (Cushatt); daughters, Kayla, Jessica and Emily; brothers, Kevin (Cathy) Adams, Sohn (Gabe) Adams, Dan (Shelby) Adams Jr., Adam (Kristin) Adams, Todd (Chris) Cushatt; and many nieces, nephews and other family.

Marvin ‘Tony’ Leland Putney

Marvin “Tony” Leland Putney, 81, died Feb. 18, 2022, at home surrounded by his family. He married Nora Jones on July 2, 1961. He was a heavy equipment operator for Warren County retiring in 2005 after 23 years and wintered in Arizona. He was a produce vendor (Putney Homegrown Produce) at the Downtown Des Moines Farmer’s Market for 43 years.
He is survived by his wife Nora; children Stacy (Kelly) Putney, Jane (Jeff) Davis, Audrey Putney and Amanda (Brian) Fox; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; siblings, Peggy Snider, Ardith Naifeh, Sue Gordon and Tim Putney.
The family requests those that wish to honor him to donate blood at Life Serve Blood Center. No services are planned at this time. For a full obituary, visit www.overtonfunerals.com.

Charles James Hodges

Charles James Hodges died Feb. 12, 2022, in Indianola. A funeral services held Feb. 15 at Peterson Funeral Home in Indianola. Burial was at Bethel Chapel Cemetery in Woodburn. He served in the Navy from 1964-1968. On June 7, 1975, he married Pamala Jane Wilkins. Chuck went to work for Massey Ferguson until 1982 before beginning a career at CemenTech, where he retired on Jan. 26, 2007. While he was employed, Chuck took classes at DMACC for AutoCad where he received straight As.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Pamala; children, Greg (Danielle) Hodges, Andrea (Tim) Fletchall, David Hodges, Jenny (Jason) Scott, Kayla (Tyler) Mason, Bobby Hodges, and Daryl O’Brien; 17 Grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren, with another on the way; and a brother, Jack (Ray) Hodges.

Diana Louise Mock

Diana Louise Mock died Feb. 16, 2022, in her home, surrounded by her companion, Steve Winkelman, and loving friends, Susan Chambers and Leila Schlenker.
Diana graduated from Indianola High school and attended Simpson College before training as a cytologist. She worked as a cytologist for many years — first in Atlanta and then in Des Moines. She was known for her acute diagnostic skills. After retiring from cytology, she became a Realtor.
A celebration of life will be held in early May.

Amy Beth Brody

Amy Beth Brody was born in Rochester, New York, on March 7, 1961. In 1984, she met Brad, and they shared 36 years of marriage. They had two children, Zachary and Brittany. Amy died suddenly on Feb. 21, 2022. She is survived by her husband, Bradley Brody; son, Zachary (Katie Whitlow) Brody; daughter, Brittany (Samuel) Blaustein; and many other relatives and friends.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue, with Rabbi Barton officiating. Interment will be at Jewish Glendale Cemetery, immediately following the service. Shiva will be private. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements are by Iles Dunn’s Chapel.

Lois Fern Howard

Lois Fern Howard, affectionately known as “Grandma Pie,” died peacefully in her home, Feb. 19, 2022, surrounded by generations of family. Lois was born in Burnside and grew up in a rural setting. Traveling to California during the war to live with a sister whose husband was deployed, Lois met Victor Arnold Howard. They were married on April 18, 1946, and moved to West Des Moines. Shortly after the birth of their fourth son, Lois was widowed and left to raise the boys, ages 6, 4, 2 and 3 weeks. She retired in her late 80s from Guide One Insurance. She also worked as a receptionist for Dr. Hess and as a cashier at Magic Car Wash. She was a member of West Des Moines United Methodist and Rebekah Circle. Lois is survived by her four sons: William (Lynne), Gregory (Christine), Doug (Deb), and James and other relatives and friends.
Visitation is Thursday, Feb. 24, 6-8 p.m. at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th St., West Des Moines. Funeral service is Friday, Feb. 25, 10-11 a.m. at West Des Moines Methodist Church, 720 Grand Ave. Burial will follow at Resthaven Cemetery.

Patricia Seiler

Patricia Seiler, 79, of West Des Moines, died Feb. 19, 2022. She was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On Oct. 20, 1962, she married Richard G. Seiler Sr. Together, they had five children. He preceded her in death She was a member of the Sacred Heart Parish and the treasurer of the Catholic Widow and Widowers group where she enjoyed activities with the club.
She is survived by her children, Deborah Studer, Richard Jr. (Theresa), Patrick (Kirsten), Robert (Amy), and David (Kelly), and other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, at Brooks Funeral Care, 7975 University Blvd., Des Moines. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at Sacred Heart Church, 1627 Grand Ave., West Des Moines, with a burial to follow at Jordan Cemetery, 3500 Fuller Road, West Des Moines.

Fred Spuzello

Fred Spuzello, 85, a Des Moines native and longtime resident of West Des Moines, died Feb. 14, 2022. He was a graduate of Tech High School and a long-time business entrepreneur. He is survived by his wife, Mary (Kleinschmidt), his children Dawn (Dale) Johnson, Deb Olson, Tony (Megan), Theresa (Jordan) Agey, and Tanner (Jenn); and other relatives and friends.

Phyllis Rosalia Scoles

Phyllis Rosalia Scoles (Beerbower), 96, died at the Madison County Memorial Hospital on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Feb. 25 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel with a visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow in the Winterset Cemetery.
Phyllis grew up in Winterset. Her family formed a band and played for dances when she was growing up. She was in the town band and played concerts uptown. She married Glenn Scoles, a friend of her brother’s from the Army CCC Camp in Red Oak on Aug. 5, 1944. Phyllis graduated from Winterset High School in 1945. The couple lived in Winterset and the Ozarks before returning to Winterset. She volunteered in many ways: for the VFW Post 8142, for her church, for the food bank, and as a hospice volunteer, among others. Phyllis was nominated by the VFW and became the No. 2 volunteer of the year with the State of Iowa. She was honored with 70 years of service with the VFW in 2019. She was a member of the Grace Baptist Church.
She was preceded by her husband, Glenn, in 2010 after 65 years of marriage. A full obituary is available at www.caldwellparrish.com.

William Robert Cooper

William Robert Cooper, known as “Bill” or “Coop,” of Ankeny died Feb. 13, 2022, in Johnston. A graveside service was held Feb. 21 at Glendale Cemetery. He grew up in the Beaverdale neighborhood and graduated from Roosevelt High School and then served in the United States Navy from 1951-1955. After his years in the Navy, William was employed as a locksmith and worked part time as a Polk County sheriff’s deputy. He served as the acting police chief of the Windsor Heights Police Department as well as being chief of the Windsor Heights Fire Department. William ended his career after 35 years with Mosler Safe Company, with whom he traveled to many towns across Iowa. He was a lifetime member of the Harley owners Group (HOG). He spent 20 years as a resident of Lake Ponderosa where he volunteered for the Lake Patrol Division.
Arrangements were handled by Iles Westover Chapel.

Geraldine Louise (Frederick) Bagley

Elsie A. Andrini, 107, died Feb. 15, 2022, of complications after falling in her home. She grew up in mining communities where her father worked in the mines. They moved to Dallas Coal Camp and eventually settled in the Granger area. As a teenager, her family moved to their first home on the Granger Homestead. This was a project developed by the late Monsignor Luigi L. Ligutti. He petitioned the government’s Subsistence Division Program and, with the help of Eleanor Roosevelt, secured the loan to start the Granger Homestead which gave poor families the ability to own a home and feed their families by working the land and raising animals. Elsie was possibly the last living original resident of the Granger Homestead.
Elsie married Richard Andrini in 1948. They first lived in Madrid and later bought a home in Granger where she lived until she fell and was hospitalized. He preceded her in death.
A private burial will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Dunn’s Chapel.

Geraldine Louise (Frederick) Bagley

Geraldine “Jerry” Louise (Frederick) Bagley, 90, died Feb. 5, 2022. Funeral services were Feb. 11 at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines. Burial was at Resthaven Cemetery. She was born in Elkhart and graduated from Huxley High School in 1948. After graduation, she moved to Des Moines and started working at Central Life. She married Richard Bagley on Dec. 25, 1953 and moved in to their new home in Urbandale in 1957. He preceded her in death. Jerry spent her entire married life in that home before moving to Bickford Assisted living in 2021. She was a stay-at-home mom to her three children, Sheryl, Kathy, and Robert. Jerry also worked in food service for the Urbandale schools for many years.

Matthew J. Coenen

Funeral Mass for Matthew J. Coenen, 79, of Indianola, who died Feb. 2, 2022, in Des Moines, were Feb. 11 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Indianola,. Inurnment will take place at a later date in the Indianola I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Matthew was a 1961 graduate of Dowling Catholic High School. He is survived by his wife, Kaye, of 54 years; children, Matthew E. Coenen and Ann (Blake) Davis; and many other relatives and friends.

Dorothy (Hildreth) Matthiesen

Dorothy (Hildreth) Matthiesen, 98, died Feb. 3, 2022, at The Village retirement community of Indianola. She grew up in the Des Moines area, farmed near Curlew, and lived for 54 years in Fenton before moving to The Village in Indianola in 2002. Dorothy attended both Lincoln and North High Schools in Des Moines. During high school, she ran track, played tennis and swam. During WWII, she worked at the Ankeny Ordnance Plant and later at Solar Aircraft in Des Moines where she met her husband, Homer, who preceded her in death. She was active with Homer in his welding shop, DeKalb Seed Corn business and Homer’s Hardware store.
A memorial service will take place in May at the Rush Lake Township Cemetery near Curlew.

Sonja Ellen Crain

Sonja Ellen Crain died Feb. 11, 2022, with her family by her side at home. She graduated from Rich East High School in Chicago in 1980 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Knox College in 1984 and her master’s degree from Northern Illinois University in 1988. She moved to Indianola to begin a teaching career at Simpson College while her husband-to-be, Dale, finished chiropractic school. They married on Oct. 8, 1988. She put her Simpson career on hold to be home with the kids while also volunteering for organizations such as TTT, Dobber’s Up, and the National Balloon Classic. She led Sunday School and Kid’s Club at Trinity United Presbyterian Church where she also served as a deacon. She returned to Simpson College to work with students in the TRIO Program. She retired from Simpson in 2020 and became chief editor for Deeper Than Money, a business founded by her daughter Chloe.
She is survived by husband Dale Crain; children, Chelsea (Dominik) Lensing, Chloe Crain, and Nicholas Crain; and many other family and friends. Celebration of Life Services were held Feb. 16 at Trinity United Presbyterian Church in Indianola. Inurnment of cremains will be held at a later date.

Jim Weeks

Jim Weeks, 79, died surrounded by family on Feb. 6, 2022. He lived in New Virginia, where he went to high school and graduated in 1960. After graduating, he married his high school sweetheart, Leona Kay Johnson, on July 25, 1964. After moving from New Virginia, Jim and Leona settled in Indianola.
Jim worked as a laborer at Firestone Tire & Rubber for more than 30 years. After retiring from Firestone, Jim finished his working years with the Department of Transportation.
Survivors include his wife, Leona, of 57 years; children, Mark Weeks, Ryan (Amy) Weeks and Erin (Paul) Kindelspire; and many other relatives and friends.
Services were Feb. 10 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. Burial followed in the New Virginia Cemetery, New Virginia.

Anna May Cooley

Services for Anna May Cooley, 97, who died Feb. 3, 2022, in Norwalk, were held Feb. 10 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola with burial in the Indianola I.O.O.F. Cemetery. She grew up on a farm near Des Moines where she met and married Edward William Cooley on Oct. 17, 1941. They were together 57 years until his death in 1999. They had six children: Edward LeRoy (Grace), Joanne Dora (Keith Blanchard), Wayne Dennis (Robin), Beverly Jean (Raymond Johnson), Penni Sue (Larry Bell), and Larry Scott (Marcinda). Joanne and Wayne preceded her in death.

Linda Elaine Harvey

Linda Elaine Harvey, 71, died Feb. 13, 2022. She graduated from Valley High School in 1968. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Harvey, and other relatives and friends. Arrangements were handled by Iles Westover Chapel.

Patti Linn Reeves

Patti Linn Reeves, 72, of West Des Moines, died Feb. 3, 2022. A memorial service was held at Westchester Evangelical Free Church in Des Moines on Feb. 10. She graduated from Urbandale High School and from Northern Illinois University. She was a teacher all her life and retired from Iowa Christian Academy. She is survived by two children, Daniel (Morgan) and Meredith (Ben) Cadwell, and many other family members. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dan.

Susan Wickemeyer

Susan Wickemeyer, 69, of West Des Moines, died Feb. 5, 2022. She grew up in Texas, living in Austin, San Antonio and Houston. She attended the University of Houston for two years before transferring to Texas Women’s University. She received her bachelor of nursing degree and began her career in the emergency department of St. Joseph’s Hospital in downtown Houston. Susan met her future husband, William, when she was a student nurse and he was an intern in the emergency department of The Methodist Hospital in Houston. They were married in June of 1980 and moved to Des Moines where William began his career as a cardiologist. Susan then devoted her energy to raising her children and supporting William in his medical practice.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years, William; their children, Julie and Joseph; and other relatives and friends. A visitation will be Saturday, Feb. 19, from 10-11 a.m. with the memorial service following at 11 a.m. at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th St., West Des Moines.

Charles James Hodges

Charles James Hodges died Feb. 12, 2022, in Indianola. A funeral service was held Feb. 15 at Peterson Funeral Home in Indianola. Burial was at Bethel Chapel Cemetery in Woodburn. Watch for the full obituary at https://www.petersonfuneralservice.com.

Gladys Marie Kohler

Gladys Marie Kohler, 86, of Winterset, died Feb. 7, 2022, at EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines. Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 12 at the First United Methodist Church in Winterset. Interment was in the Winterset Cemetery.
She was born at the family farm in rural Madison County. In 1947, the family moved to Elk River, Minnesota, where Gladys graduated from Elk River High School in 1953. Gladys and her husband, Glenn E. Kohler, lived in the southern Minnesota area, raising their seven children. In 1970, they moved their family to Winterset and lived there until 1984 when they moved to Casa Grande, Arizona. Glenn passed away in 1990, and, in 1995, Gladys moved back to Winterset. After moving to Winterset, Gladys worked at Pamida for 13 years until she retired. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Winterset.

Lucas David Sigler

Lucas David Sigler, 21, of Dallas Center died Feb. 6, 2022, while at home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Services were set for 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 15 at Grimes United Methodist Church, followed by a luncheon. A private inurnment will be at Brethren Cemetery near Dallas Center on Wednesday.
Luke was enjoying his sophomore year at Simpson College studying graphic design until he got sick. He was a member of Grimes United Methodist Church where he was active with the youth group for many years, including as a leader to younger students, and took numerous mission trips.
He is survived by his parents, David and Michelle Sigler of Dallas Center; brothers Cole (Rachel) Sigler and Zack Sigler; sister Elliana Sigler; and many other relatives and friends.
A full obituary is online at IlesCares.com.

William ‘Bill’ Joseph Ballalatak

William “Bill” Joseph Ballalatak, 78, died Feb. 6, 2022, in Grimes. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Feb. 9 at Assumption Catholic Church in Granger. He and his wife, Elizabeth “Betty,” had two daughters, and he died shortly before their 59th anniversary. She survives him. Bill worked for 39 years at Super Valu warehouse and 13 years at Pioneer Hi Bred. A full obituary is online at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Karen Wimmer

Karen Wimmer, 66, of Urbandale, died Feb. 6, 2022, from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She is survived by her husband, Bill Wimmer; her adult sons, Alex and Jon Teig; their father, Bob Teig; her older brother and sisters, Craig, Nancy, and Cathy, and many other relatives and friends.
She graduated from AIB’s school of court reporting in Des Moines and completed her career in 2017 when she retired as an official reporter in Iowa District Court in Cedar Rapids. Karen was past president of the Iowa Court Reporters’ Association and served on the Board of the National Court Reporters’ Association. She helped establish a new court reporter program at Des Moines Area Community College.
She volunteered with the Cedar Rapids Public Schools and was a member of the Cedar Rapids Science Station Board of Directors, Junior League in Cedar Rapids, and Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in West Des Moines.
Burial was at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery in Des Moines following a funeral mass at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Feb. 10. A full obituary is online at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Carole L. Slump

Carole L. Slump, 80, formerly of Urbandale, died Feb. 8, 2022, following a brief illness. She graduated from Red Oak High School in 1959 and attended the University of Nebraska and Drake University.
She worked for the Urbandale School District for many years. In 1962, she married Jack Slump. After living several years in both Nebraska and Michigan, they settled in Urbandale where they raised their three children. He preceded her in death in 2003. She is survived by her three children, Cindy Mina and husband, John, of Portland, Maine; Kris Robson of Urbandale; and Jeff Slump and wife, Lori, of Urbandale.
She enjoyed gathering with family and friends, whether it be a neighborhood cookout, the Birthday Club, the bridge group, for Thursday night Margaritas or wine, and her daily golf outings with her husband Jack at the Urbandale Golf and Country Club.
Visitation is 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 11, at Iles Westover Chapel. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 12, at MDRC The Bridge Church and will be live streamed by the church. Iles Westover Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Rhonda Currie

Rhonda Currie, 64, of Urbandale died suddenly on Jan. 30, 2022. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Mark; her children: Alex (Alison), Tyler, and Jacey (An Nguyen); and many other family members and friends. She worked as a medical transcriptionist for more than 20 years in the Des Moines area. A celebration of life and service were Feb. 10 at Iles Westover Chapel. A full obituary is online at www.IlesCares.com.

James William Miller

James William Miller, 61, died Feb. 2, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. He worked most of his life in the auto industry, first in sales then in service. A mass of Christian burial will be held at noon on Feb. 12 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines with Fr. Ray McHenry officiating. Friends may visit with family on Saturday at the church from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service. A full obituary is available at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Patricia Torpy

Patricia “Pat” Torpy, 89, of Adel, died Feb 5, 2022. Funeral services were Feb. 10 at the United Methodist Church in Adel, with burial following at Prairie Lawn Cemetery near Creston.
Pat graduated from Orient High School in 1949 and married Robert “Bob” Standley in 1950. Together they had six children and settled in Adel in 1965. Patricia was widowed in 1977.
She lived in Adel until 1984, when she married Joseph “Joe” Torpy. They resided in West Des Moines until 1995, when they built their dream home in Adel. He preceded her in death.
Pat served on the Adel School Board and was one of the first women mail carriers in Adel in the 1970s. She served on the Library board for several years and coordinated and helped deliver school lunch in Adel for many years. She was involved in Adel Women’s Club, T.T.T., United Methodist Women, Toastmasters, and multiple bridge clubs in Adel and West Des Moines. Pat was a lifelong bowler, and bowled in a league until the age of 85.
A full obituary is available at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Randy Gene Stringer

Randy Gene Stringer, 58, died Feb. 2, 2022. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines in 1981 and Central College in 1993 with his bachelor of arts degree. A memorial service was held Feb. 7 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – McCalley Chapel in Adel. For a full obituary, visit www.caldwellparrish.com.

Beverly Jean Berger

Beverly Jean Berger, 86, of Waukee, died Feb. 5, 2022. She is survived by her two sons, Kevin and his wife, Janel, and Kurt and his wife, Pamella, and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin, of 61 years just 18 days prior.
Beverly graduated from North High School in 1954. She remained a loyal supporter of her alma mater throughout the years. She played semi-pro women’s fast-pitch softball for Greenwood Electric, as well as spent a lot of her adult life traveling across the country to compete in bowling tournaments. She held numerous board positions with the Des Moines Women’s Bowling Association and was inducted into the Greater Des Moines Bowling Association Hall of Fame in 2003. She was also an avid, life-long golfer.
She spent much of her working career in the insurance industry, later retiring from Farm Bureau. She volunteered at her church, Westchester Evangelical Free Church.

Glennice Joyce Brelsford

Glennice Joyce Brelsford, 94, formerly of Waukee, died at Cariad at North Brook Assisted Living in McKinney, Texas, on Feb. 8, 2022. Visitation will be held Saturday, Feb. 19 from 9:30-11 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., both at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Waukee. Luncheon to follow service with interment following at Sunny Hill Cemetery in Grimes. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services of Waukee is in charge of arrangements.