Iowa Living Magazines

Robert Eugene Whitlatch

Robert Eugene Whitlatch, 83, of Polk City, died March 7, 2023. Bob was what you may call a jack of many trades — working in the grocery store business, being an amazing ballroom dancer and a retail success selling horse equipment. Horses were one of Bob’s lifelong loves. He and his first horse, Major, started showing around 1957. Bob gave lessons to children for many years. He and Helen Nymeyer were a dynamic duo for quite a few years before Bob went to work for Schneiders Saddlery. In the mid 1980s, Bob had another dream come true — he was asked to be a ringmaster at the Arabian Nationals.
Bob is survived by his sister, Lela Mae Cameron (Reuben), and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Gelene Whitlatch; sister, Phyllis; and brother, Larry.
The family has asked donations be made to the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund in Bob’s honor, another chance for him to make a difference for a horseman in need, at www.horsemensdistressfund.com. According to Bob’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Condolences may be left at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

Florence Marie (Bowles) Stucker

Florence Marie (Bowles) Stucker, 93, of Adel, is now with her soulmate, Robert, to whom she was married for 76 years. She is remembered by her loved ones for her love, her good cheer and humor and her unwavering moral support and acceptance, as well as her beautiful handmade quilts and sweaters.
Florence was born May 12, 1929, in Rifle, Colorado, the eldest child of Nellie and Nonie Bowles. As an infant, she and her parents moved to rural Ellis County, Oklahoma, where she lived until she was married to Robert Stucker in Higgins, Texas, Jan. 17, 1946. The couple rented a 300-acre farm in Texas for three years. After working in other farm jobs and seismography (blowing up dynamite underground to find oil), in 1950, she and Robert began a 30-year journey which started in Guymon, Oklahoma, and ended in Marshfield, Wisconsin. He was an operator of natural gas compressor stations. They retired in 1980.
Their only child, Virgil Robert Stucker, was born in 1952. During retirement, Robert and Florence volunteered with their son, his wife, Lis, and their family for nonprofit programs serving people recovering from mental illness. Robert and Florence actively helped to raise Lis and Virgil’s four children. For the last decades of life, they lived in Adel, where they have enjoyed and benefited from fun times with the many members of Florence’s family.
Florence died on March 11, 2023; her husband, Robert, died on Feb. 27, 2022. She is survived by her son, Virgil (Lis); four grandchildren, Dominic (Esme), Christoph (Sarah), Heidi (Sutton) and Stephanie (Matthew); and nine great-grandchildren, Issabelle, Moira, Tiegen, Maddox, Olivia, Rebekah, Eliana, Cass and Frances. The family acknowledges devoted caregiver Mary Hinton, who became like a granddaughter.
Memorial donations may be made to the Adel United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 18, at the United Methodist Church in Adel. Family will greet friends from 9-10 a.m. at the church before the service. Burial will be at Oakdale Cemetery in Adel. Online condolences maybe left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Gergenna Rae Mardesen

Gergenna Rae Mardesen was born in Exira on June 4, 1944, to Harvey Mardesen and Gwendolyn Beers. She attended school in Exira, was crowned homecoming queen, graduated, and moved to Des Moines to attend the Iowa School of Beauty. While at beauty school, she met William Horner, whom she married on Nov. 22, 1964. She had two sons, Jamie and Jeffrie Horner, and took care of them for many years, working multiple jobs to make ends meet and support her family. Prior to retirement, she made the transition to living in Johnston, where she made many new friends while also managing to keep in contact with and care for many old friends and family. She finally retired at the age of 70 and spent the last few years enjoying time with friends and family members. She was a long-time member of the Glen Echo Christian Church in Des Moines.
She died Feb. 24, 2023, at Kavanaugh Hospice House in Des Moines with her sons by her side. She is also survived by her sister, brother-in-law, daughter-in-law, two granddaughters, and many other family members and friends.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Ellipsis, P.O. Box 39, Johnston, IA 50131.

Wesley Borlin

Wesley Borlin, 74, died Feb. 26, 2023, in Johnston. He was born in Des Moines on Feb. 5, 1949, the son of George and Dolores (Bergstrom) Borlin. Wes graduated from North High School in 1967, then from Iowa State with a bachelor of science in mathematics in 1971. After college, he began teaching at Sacred Heart Catholic School in West Des Moines, where he taught math, science and art. Wes worked at the Iowa Department of Job Services as a fraud investigator. While there, he met the love of his life and best friend, Shelley. The couple was married Oct. 26, 1978, at Browns Chapel in Indianola. Wes went on to own and operate his own real estate business. He also owned and operated the Beer Barn in Saylorville and the Last Draw Saloon. While running these successful businesses, he went back to school at DMACC for computer programming. Wes worked for Unisys, State of Iowa, Nationwide and Aviva in information technology. He retired from Aviva on Dec. 31, 2012.
Wes is survived by his wife; children, Wendy (Kyle) Peterson, Christopher (Kimberly) Borlin and Stephen Borlin; father; grandson; and sister. He is preceded in death by his mother, brother, and grandson, Jeremy Borlin.
A memorial gathering was held Friday, March 3 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens in Des Moines. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Wes. Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

Roland Charles ‘Chuck’ Hyde

Roland Charles “Chuck” Hyde, 82, of Adel died March 3, 2023. A celebration of Chuck’s life visitation will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, March 11 at Caldwell Parrish McCalley Chapel in Adel.
Chuck was born May 20, 1940, in Millbank, South Dakota, the son of Roland and Wava Hyde. The family moved to Council Bluffs where Chuck graduated from high school. He went to South Dakota State College for two years and finished his studies at the University of Nebraska - Omaha. He was active in track, football and basketball.
After college, he worked at International Harvester then Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. in Omaha and then Des Moines, where he met Peggy Walsh. They married in 1971 and formed a combined family of five children. They lived in Urbandale then in rural Redfield.
He enjoyed hunting duck and pheasant, playing golf and raising tropical fish, horses and several breeds of dogs.
In 1986, they were both transferred to Omaha, where they worked for four years before retiring in 1990 and moving back to Iowa. They built a home in Adel on 13 acres. Chuck got a job at Doc’s Hunt Club where he trained dogs and was a guide. He won a national championship with his German Shorthair “Spice.” When the hunt club sold, Chuck managed the Club House at Hillcrest.
Chuck is survived by his wife of 52 years, Peggy; his stepdaughter, Debbie (Jeff) Baker of Redfield; stepson Matt Walsh of West Des Moines; daughter Deborah (Bernard) of Council Bluffs; daughter Jacque of Council Bluffs; son Kent of Council Bluffs, and sisters Barbara and Julie, also from Council Bluffs. Chuck is also survived by nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Ruth Laughridge

Ruth Laughridge, 71, of Van Meter, died surrounded by her family on March 3, 2023, at the MercyOne Hospice House in Johnston.
Ruth was born on April 28, 1951, to Chester and Peggy (Roggendorf) Lawman in Fort Dodge. She graduated from Adel High School in 1969 and married Larry Laughridge in Adel on July 12, 1986. Ruth worked at Preferred Risk, now GuideOne Insurance, for 48 years as a business analyst.
Ruth enjoyed the outdoors, camping and doing various landscaping and yard chores. She liked working in her flower beds and attending Chicago and Iowa Cubs baseball games in the summer. When not able to be outdoors, she enjoyed cross stitching.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Larry; two sons, Travis (Jess) and Daniel (Katie); three grandchildren, Zaiden, Theo and Jack; along with many siblings, nieces, nephews and extended family.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date in the Van Meter Cemetery. Friends and family will be invited to a celebration of life to be held at a later date to be determined. The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance and/or to the MercyOne Hospice House in Johnston. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Nancy Louise Renfrow

Nancy Louise Renfrow died March 6, 2023. Nancy was born the daughter of Roger and Melva Shiery on Jan. 22, 1931, in Dallas Center. She graduated from Dallas Center High School in 1948.
Nancy was married to the love of her life, Wilbur Junior Renfrow, on July 1, 1949. They had two sons, Daniel Dean and David Neil. She was a lifelong resident of Dallas County, living in Dallas Center until moving to Adel in 1979.
Nancy worked side by side with Wilbur on their farm along with working at Hy-Line Chicken Farms, Sears, as a seamstress, and, later in life, at Congregate Meals in Adel. She had a love of gardening and square dancing. She spent the last 40 years playing bluegrass music with “the pickers” and cooking Sunday dinner for the family.
Nancy is survived by her sons, Daniel Dean (Martha Seibert) of Dallas Center and David Neil (Susan) of Adel; her grandchildren, Roger (Lynne) Renfrow of Perry, Nicole (Shawn Pepel) Renfrow of Earlham, Riley Renfrow of West Des Moines, Justin Merical of Perry and Matthew Merical of Van Meter; and great-grandchildren Grace Merical, Peyton and Isabel Pepel, and Paislee and Cason Renfrow. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbur, and sister, Carol Jean Hansen, of Plano, Texas.
There will be a private graveside service at Brethren Cemetery in Dallas Center at a later date where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Wilbur.
Memorial contributions may be directed to MercyOne Hospice in Johnston.

David Clark Moorman

David Clark Moorman, 58, died Feb. 18, 2023, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born Nov. 29, 1964, in Owensboro, Kentucky, the son of David Keats Moorman and Doris Jane (Lyons) Moorman. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized during his middle-school years at Macedonia Baptist Church. He attended Daviess County High School in Owensboro, Kentucky, and graduated from Eisenhower High School in New Berlin, Wisconsin, in 1983. He attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, then graduated from the University of Wisconsin (Madison) in 1988 with an industrial engineering degree and was employed in the Chicago area. He married Marcey Bender in 1990, and they had three children. He moved to Johnston in 2019.
Dave was preceded in death by an infant sister, Melanie Moorman, in 1967 and an infant son, Trevor John Moorman, in 1997; and by grandparents, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Dave is survived by his children, Jenna Renée Moorman, Trent David Moorman and Bryce Alexander Moorman; parents; two younger brothers; eight nieces and nephews; four uncles; three aunts; numerous cousins and friends; and special friend, Michelle Hart.
His memorial service was on March 4 at NorthPoint Church in Johnston. Memorial contributions may be made to NorthPoint Church, a charitable organization of your choice, or a GoFundMe account for his son’s college education: www.gofundme.com/f/bryces-college-fund-in-memory-of-david-moorman.

Ana Marie Kramme

Ana Maria Kramme, 68, daughter of Peter and Elsa Gonzalez, was born July 9, 1954, in Waterloo. She passed at home in Adel on Feb. 20, 2023. She married Steven Kramme on Oct. 24, 1981. They have two children, David and Sara. She retired from John Deere in 2013 and enjoyed fishing, gardening and traveling the U.S.
Survivors include her brothers, Joseph (Karen) and Michael (Susan), and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, David.
A celebration of Ana’s life will be held Saturday, March 25, from noon to 3 p.m. at AMVETS Post 49, 1934 Irving St., Cedar Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to 24705 J. Ave., Adel, IA 50003, to go toward a celebration of life and a donation to hospice in Ana’s name.

David ‘Dave’ Riley Lustgraaf

David “Dave” Riley Lustgraaf, 76, son of Barbara (Pinkerton) and Harold (Ark) Lustgraaf, was born May 10, 1946, in Greeley, Colorado. He died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023, at home in Polk City.
Dave graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs in 1964. He married the love of his life, Janice Hopkins, on Aug. 20, 1965, in Council Bluffs. The couple began their family together and resided in Council Bluffs. Dave was a meat cutter for Safeway for 19 years before opening the Minden Meat Market in Minden, where they worked closely together until they retired in 1996 and moved to Polk City. After settling in Polk City, Dave became a truck driver for Green Products in Conrad. He did this for the next 20 years and retired again. He then went to work for TMC Transportation as a truck driver trainer until April of 2020, and he retired for the last time.
He is survived by his children, Patrick “Pat” (Sheryl) Lustgraaf and Laura (Scott Crouse) Larson; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two sisters; brother; and nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and daughter, Julie Lustgraaf.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 4 from 1-3 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. His cremains will be buried in Council Bluffs at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Salvation Army in Dave’s memory.

Charley Izabel Decker

Charley Izabel Decker, 8, of Johnston, died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023, at Mercy Hospital with her family at her side. Charley was born March 26, 2014, in Des Moines to Travis Joseph Decker and Juana Medina Gutierrez. She started life at a mere 3 pounds, 6 ounces and quickly began on her path of proving that the best things in life come in small packages. Charley’s strength and determination were inspirational to all around her and enabled her to defy her medical diagnoses and accomplish her goals. She endured many challenges in her short life but always did so with a smile on her face and never a complaint.
Charley had an infectious smile and giggle that would brighten any room she was in. She loved bright lights, loud music, snuggling, her big brother’s dancing, watching her favorite movie “Cinderella” (1950) with her father, and spa days with her mother where she would get her hair styled and her nails done with fun designs. Charley was a daddy’s girl whose hair and nails became her trademark. When not enjoying time with her family, Charley attended Beaver Creek Elementary, where she had the most amazing teachers and so many friends who made huge impacts on her and her family.
Survivors include parents, Travis Decker and Juana Gutierrez; brother, A J; Grandma Donna Copeland, Dena (Nathan) Spray, Javier (Jeanna) Gutierrez, Agustin Gutierrez, Chelo (Craig) Wainwright; all her cousins: Wesley, Jacob (Haley), Lucas, Sam, Javier (Shelby), Alejandro, Viviana, Sophia, Isabella, Taylor and Jaiden; her extended family who were with the family from the very beginning; her care staff at Mercy, including all her doctors, rehabilitation specialists and mobility device providers.
Preceding her in death were grandparents: Carl Joseph Decker, Agustin Gutierrez and Consuelo Gutierrez. In lieu of funeral services, a birthday celebration will be held at a later date.

Christine Gale Matthews

Christine Gale (Warren) Matthews, 71, of Johnston, died Feb. 3, 2023, after her battle with cancer. Chris was born on Nov. 11, 1951, to Betty (Watson) Warren and Jim Warren. She was the oldest of three children and grew up in Urbandale. Christine married Jeff Matthews in 1968, and they had two sons. Despite divorcing, Chris and Jeff remained friends through the years.
Chris was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Rick Warren. She is survived by her sister, Terry Warren; her sons, Chad and Jason Matthews; her co-parent/friend, Jeff Matthews; one granddaughter and two great-grandchildren. A celebration of life was held Saturday, Feb. 18 at 6365 Merle Hay Road in Johnston.

Arvilla Mary Oxenford

Arvilla Mary Oxenford was born June 23, 1930, in Dedham, to Joseph and Theresa (Bauer) Wiskus. She died Feb. 16, 2023, at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston at age 92. Arvilla was the second oldest of 12 children on the Wiskus family farm. She attended St. Joseph School in Dedham. Arvilla was industrious and worked at the Manning Hatchery along with helping to raise her brothers and sisters. After relocating to Des Moines, she was employed at Meredith. Arvilla married Richard Oxenford, and to this union three children were born.
She is survived by her children, Paul (Lisa) Oxenford and Lori (Hari) Mangalapalli; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three sisters and two brothers. She was preceded in death by her husband in 2016; son, Steve, in 2020; parents; and six siblings.
A graveside service was held Tuesday, Feb. 21 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Dedham. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dedham. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Harold LeRoy Dwinell

Harold LeRoy Dwinell, 85, formerly of Adel, died in his sleep on Feb. 21, 2023, at the Aspire Care Center in Gowrie. Harold Dwinell was born at home Jan. 3, 1938, to parents Edward Challis and Ruth Viola (Burchfield) Dwinell. He grew up living on farms, which taught him to work with animals. He enjoyed animals all his life and would try to get squirrels to take a peanut from him. Sometimes he succeeded.
When Harold was a teen, his mother had a massive stroke, so, being the youngest, he took care of the cooking for the family. Ruth would give directions until he learned to create on his own. This skill of cooking carried through his life. He made many meals for his family growing up, his own family and family holiday meals.
On May 24, 1958, Harold married Shirley Ann Hayes. The couple raised four children, Lou Ann (Bob) Snodgrass, Lori Lea (David) Carlon, Lynne (Jory) Hire and Lance. Harold worked for the railroad in his younger years then at Wright Tree Service. He finished his working career as a semi-truck driver.
Camping was a family activity. Harold took his family on trips across the country to see family in an old remodeled school bus, and to “Swalla’s” farm where the fire was always built up high. Harold and Shirley also took many local trips with friends on his motorcycle to see the country and visit family. In retirement, Harold and Shirley traveled in a motorhome. Harold liked playing cards and teaching his kids and grandkids how to play cribbage. Cribbage was one of his favorite pastimes at home, in a downtown tournament, or on the computer.
Harold enjoyed gardening, talking with “new” friends while camping, fixing bikes so people he cared about had a bike to ride, and watching animals in the yard.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Shirley; his parents; and sister, Janice. He is survived by his children; 13 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a brother, Ronald Dwinell; along with many extended family and friends.
A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on March 25 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, McCalley Chapel. A private burial will be held in the Oakdale Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparris.com. Memorials may be directed to the Cancer Society or to a local food pantry.

Edward Leon Stroeber

Edward Leon Stroeber, the eldest of three children born to Edward W. and Elva L. (Forsyth) Stroeber, was born June 5, 1941, at his grandmother’s home in Madison County. Ed attended grade school at Arispe and Macksburg. He then attended Adel High School where he met the love of his life, Judith E. Ramsey. They were married 51 years.
Ed is survived by his sister, Janet (Jim) Shelby: sister-in-law, Donna Adamson; four daughters, Kathy (Ernest) Mack, Susan Stroeber, Joanne (Cara) Stroeber and Linda Stroeber; four granddaughters; 10 great grandchildren; and many other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judy; brother, Ray; brother-in-law, Merle Adamson; and nephew, Michael Adamson.
A funeral service was held Feb. 20 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – McCalley Chapel. Burial was at Panther Creek Cemetery west of Adel.
Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Carolyn Mario Colosimo

Carolyn Maria Colosimo, 82, died peacefully on Feb. 4, 2023, due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease at Brio of Johnston. Carolyn was born on July 9, 1940, in Des Moines. She was the oldest child and only daughter of Tony and Rose (Formaro) Mazza. Carolyn, and her family were lifelong south-side residents of Des Moines.
Carolyn graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy. The summer before her senior year in 1957, she met the love of her life, Charlie Colosimo, at Gray’s Lake Beach. They were married the following August and had 61 blissful years of marriage. Charlie and Carolyn were partners in successful business endeavors, starting with the purchase of C&C Produce, Potato Processing, and expanding into C&C Distribution/Warehousing. Carolyn’s skill of preparing authentic Italian dishes and her talent in hospitality led her to venture into a small side catering business called Carolina’s Catering.
Carolyn is survived by her nine children, Rose (Steve) Cash, Tony (Kate) Colosimo, Charlie Jr. (Susan) Colosimo, Bobby Colosimo, Maria (Dave) Jordan, Carolyn (Steve) LeWarne, Nicole Colosimo, Christina (Lincoln) Grimes, and Cassandra Colosimo; 29 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and a host of extended family. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, grandson Charlie III, brother Pete and in-laws.
Visitation was held Wednesday, Feb. 8, and funeral mass on Thursday, Feb. 9 at St. Augustin Catholic Church, with burial at Glendale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Brio of Johnston - Elan Cottage, in memory of Carolyn Colosimo.

Raymond Marsh Burnett

Raymond Marsh Burnett, 89, died Feb. 9, 2023, at UnityPoint Hospital in Des Moines. Ray was born on July 11, 1933, in Monroe to Leslie and Myrtle (Williamson) Burnett. He graduated from Knoxville High School. Ray enlisted in the Air Force in 1953. After being discharged from active duty, Ray joined the Iowa Air National Guard in Des Moines. He retired from the Air National Guard as a respected leader and friend in 1985 with the rank of chief master sergeant. Ray was a member of the National Guard’s Silver Squadron. He was a long-time member of College Avenue Christian Church and a current member at Wakonda Christian Church.
Ray is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joan; their children: Dan (Gretchen), Jill (John) Requist, and Tim; and four grandchildren. Ray was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, Feb. 26 at 3 p.m. at Wakonda Christian Church, Des Moines, with visitation from 1-3 p.m. A private burial service will be held Friday, Feb. 24 at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Dallas County.

Shirley Jean Fuller

On Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023, Shirley Jean Fuller, 93, slipped away from life and the loving arms of the family who surrounded her as she left this world. That day, we lost a devoted mother, loving grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother, dear sister and wonderful friend. She was a dedicated wife to Bob Fuller (married 53 years until his death in 2001) and his loyal business partner at Fuller Petroleum in Adel.
Shirley loved her family, ceramics, her work as a travel agent, her time in Eastern Star, fishing in Minnesota, Adel Sweet Corn Parade, vacations, riding her bike, watching old movies, playing cribbage and dominoes with her grandkids, apple salad and homemade ice cream. Throughout her last years, she displayed incredible fortitude, bravery and a strength of character and resiliency that was a shining example to her family.
Shirley was born April 7, 1929, in Ottumwa to Harold and Blanch Fredrickson. She was the middle child and loved well by her parents and two brothers and two sisters. Shirley met Bob on a blind date, married Oct. 3, 1948, in Dallas Center and eventually moved to Adel where they raised their four sons. Left to share in her legacy are Kelly (Debra), Terry (Cathy) and Tom (Linda), 10 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, her brother, Rick, and sister, Roxie. Her husband, Robert, son, Gregg, and two siblings, Glenn (Bud) Fredrckson and Corrine Grogan, preceded her in death.
Shirley’s family expresses their deepest gratitude to her friends and staff at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center for the loving care she received during her years there and for easing her transition from this life to the next.
A memorial service for Shirley will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, in Adel at Faith Lutheran Church followed by a private burial in Oakdale Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to remember and celebrate Shirley and attend a luncheon in her honor directly following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Good Samaritan Food Pantry in Adel.

Jessica Lynn McDonald

Jessica Lynn McDonald, 44, of De Soto, passed away on Feb. 8, 2023, unexpectedly. A celebration of life visitation for Jessica will be held Friday, Feb. 17 at Caldwell Parrish McCalley Chapel in Adel, from 2-5 p.m. A service will be held after the visitation beginning at 5 p.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.
Jessica was born July 6, 1978, in Colorado to Cindy and Larry Stepp. Jessica graduated from ADM High school in 1997. She then attended the Iowa School of Beauty and received her cosmetology license. On Oct. 10, 2001, Jessica was united in marriage to Joe McDonald. Through this union two children, Taylor and Sabrina, were born. Jessica and Joe raised their children in De Soto where she grew up and spent her life.
Many will remember Jessica for her infectious laugh that would fill a room. Her freckles she adored, her warm smile, and her heart that was bigger than she let on. She loved to collect pictures, heartfelt notes, or anything special; her biggest collection was her assortment of elephants. She enjoyed creating pieces of art that she would sell through her small business, JM Designs, including her custom tumblers and resin art. While Jessica had many hobbies and interests, her true love was her family and fur babies she cherished, but above all, she loved her girls, Taylor and Sabrina.
She is survived by her husband, Joe; daughters, Sabrina and Taylor; parents, Larry and Cindy Stepp; brother, Jason (Sheiry) Slycord; sisters, Stephanie (Ron) Wine and Heather Poggensse; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
She is preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Lester and Ila June Steelman and Mildred Emehiser; grandfather, Cordell Steelman; aunt, Lori Steelman; nephew, Devon Slycord; father-in-law, Tom McDonald, and grandmother-in-law, Catherine Rush.
Memorials may be directed to the family. Donations may be sent through the Venmo app to TayMcD18 and checks can be made out to Taylor McDonald. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Caelen Peterson

On Feb. 8, 2023, Caelen Peterson, loving son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend, passed away at the age of 14. Caelen was born on May 2, 2008, to Dale and Lindsey Peterson.
Caelen had a passion for the outdoors and his animals. He was also an avid music lover and a fan of traveling. He was known for his quick wit, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. Caelen has often been described as “a best friend,” “an only friend” and “a first friend” by many who knew him. Caelen had an old soul and the biggest heart anyone could meet. Caelen was fiercely loyal to anyone he called “friend” and could piece the most shattered of hearts back together with a hug and smart-mouthed joke.
Caelen is preceded in death by his aunt, Carleen Sass, great-uncle, David Wright and grandfather, David Lanier. He is survived by loving parents; brothers, Rowan and Rylan; grandparents, Cathy and Oren Peterson; grandmother, Laurie Reynolds; aunts, Joelle Peterson and Kelley Lanier; and numerous cousins and family friends.
A celebration of Caelen’s life was held Feb. 15 at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home with a time of comfort and support from 3-7 p.m.

Dale Lee Baugh

Dale Lee Baugh, 73, died Feb. 11, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. The son of Delmar and Nellie (Fitz) Baugh, he was born Sept. 18, 1949, in Manning. Following graduating from Panora High School, Dale went on to be a truck driver for many years. He then opened his own business, Fat Boy Archery and Bait Shop, and ran that for 10-15 years. During this time, he went on to work at Iowa Spring in Adel, in shipping and receiving, where he was employed at the time of his death.
He is survived by his children, Michael Baugh, Heather (Steven) Renner and Amanda (Dusty) Petek; seven grandchildren; and sister. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora, with burial in the Brethren Cemetery, Panora. Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Edward Anderson Jr.

Edward “Ed” Anderson Jr., 63, died Feb. 10, 2023. He was born on April 27, 1959, to Edward Anderson Sr. and Elouise (Cook) Anderson in Avon, Illinois. He attended the University of Iowa where he also had a job in the woodworking department. For almost 25 years, he worked at United Brick and Tile in Adel as the assistant plant manager. He had to leave his job sooner than expected due to health reasons.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Shirley; father; children, Jacki Anderson and Kyle Goracke; four grandchildren; brother; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his mother and mother-in-law.
A celebration of life will be held 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17 at First Presbyterian Church in Grimes. Instead of flowers, a fund has been started for the medical bills Ed has accumulated over the years. Donations can be made through Venmo to @JackiAndersonStylist.

Wilma Blanche (Maile) Rushing

Wilma Blanche (Maile) Rushing, 86, died at Mercy West Hospital on Feb. 2 surrounded by loved ones. She was the eighth child born to Charles and Cynthia (Blanche) Garnett Maile on Nov. 11, 1936, in Seligman, Missouri. Wilma grew up on a farm in rural Iowa between Scranton and Jefferson and graduated from Scranton Consolidated Schools.
She married Jerry Allen Rushing on Feb. 8, 1957. They were married for 42 years until his death in 1999. Together, they raised their kids in Johnston. She was generous with her time and resources, giving to family members and others in need, volunteering for many organizations and as a loving foster parent. She was instrumental in bringing congregate meals at Crown Point Senior Center and was a regular volunteer in the office. Most recently, she resided in Independent Living at Meadowview of Johnston, just a mile from where she lived for 47 years.
She had four children, Ron (Jeanine) Rushing, Carrie (Scott) Makin, Terry (Nyle) Rushing and Diane (Bobby) Elliott; 10 grandkids; 13 great-grandkids (with one due in May) and was a great-great-grandma. She is preceded in death by one grandson, four brothers and one sister, with one sister surviving.
A visitation was held Saturday, Feb. 11 at Merle Hay Funeral Home.

William “Willy” Charles Leatherby

William “Willy” Charles Leatherby, 83, of Johnston, died peacefully at home on Jan. 27, 2023. Willy was born in Des Moines to Melvin and Margaret Leatherby. In his early adulthood, he studied aviation, served in the National Guard, and built award-winning custom motorcycles. In his 40s, he met Mary. They fell in love, and their love story never ended. Together they raised four children.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Shannon Dorrian, James (Panna) Leatherby, Tracy (Brian) Tarlton, Joseph Leatherby, Jennifer Leatherby; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and his sister. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sheilah; great-grandson, Jameson; and his parents.
A celebration of life will be held on June 10. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the family. A GoFundMe account has been set up at https://gofund.me/30493198.

Robert Merle McAfee

Robert Merle McAfee, 87, of Des Moines, died on Jan. 31, 2023, surrounded by family at Genesis Senior Living Care Center. He was born March 23, 1935, to Merle and Hazel McAfee in Des Moines. He graduated from East High School. Bob married Barbara Engstrum on Oct. 19, 1973. She resides in Kyle, Texas; they lived in Polk City for 46 years. Bob entered the United States Army in 1958 and was honorably discharged in 1962. He retired from The Wittern Group in Des Moines. He enjoyed fishing, taking walks, bingo, and gardening with his wife, Barbara. He was an active member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Ankeny.
Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara McAfee of Kyle, Texas; children, Toni Coats, Robert (Julie) McAfee and Laura (Lee) Waugh; stepdaughter, Dianna (Rick) Lang; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, and granddaughter.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Merle Hay Funeral Home, with interment at Chapel Hill Gardens cemetery. Memorials may be in care of the family.

Judith Millsap

Judith Millsap, 78, died on Jan. 29, 2023, at Adel Acres. The family will greet friends on Feb. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon, with the funeral service to follow at noon at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 S.W. Ninth St., Des Moines. Judith will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Phyllis Mae Gardner

Phyllis Mae Gardner, 94, died Dec. 31, 2022. Phyllis was born in a farmhouse between Lamont and Strawberry Point on Oct. 22, 1928, to Joseph A. Livezey and Aseneth (Brant) Livezey. To this union was also born her brother, Herold, who is deceased.
Her growing up years were spent in Fairbank. Her father died when she was very young. She received her Christian training from her mother. On May 22, 1949, she and Roger Gardner were married, and to this union, two children were born. Together, Phyllis and Roger started a successful wedding invitation business, which they carried from their home for 30 years. This brought many wonderful people across their path. In 2006, her “Hugs for Jesus Ministry” began, after the Lord gave her the idea. She shared many hugs with buttons that read, “I give hugs for Jesus. Would you like one?”
Phyllis is survived by her children, Andrea (Jerry) Meyers and Wayne (Judy) Gardner and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A private family burial of cremated remains preceded a memorial service on Saturday, Feb. 4 at The Bridge in Johnston, with visitation one hour prior. Interment was at Chapel Hill Gardens. Memorial gifts may be given to Hugs for Jesus Ministry, Bridge Reformed Church, or Suncrest Hospice.

Valeta Darlene (Jacobson) Ostrander

Valeta Darlene (Jacobson) Ostrander died Jan. 23, 2023, at her home with family by her side after a long illness. Born Oct. 27, 1946, in Iowa Falls, Val was the second daughter of four girls in the Vernon and Iva (Brown) Jacobson family. She attended and graduated from Iowa Falls High School in 1965.
As a young woman, she pursued a nursing career, first obtaining her LPN degree in 1971 and then later, returning and graduating from Des Moines Mercy School of Nursing in 1989 as an RN. She loved working on the OB/GYN floor at Des Moines General and on 8 North at Mercy Hospital.
Left to share loving memories are her children, Mark (Talene) Ostrander and Amy (David) Croll; two grandchildren; two sisters and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Kathryn (Jacobson) Andersen, and brother-in-law, Allen Smith.
A celebration of Val’s life was held at Crown Point Community Center in Johnston on Sunday, Jan. 29. Memorial contributions can be made in Val’s name to Friends of Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, IA 50131 or Urbandale Friends of the Park, c/o Urbandale Parks and Recreation, 3600 86th St., Urbandale, IA 50322.

Orville Kabamba

Orville Kabamba died Jan. 20, 2023. He was born June 22, 2002, to Eugene and Mireille Kabamba in Democratic Republic of The Congo. The Kabamba family immigrated to the United States from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2015. They shortly lived in Champaign, Illinois, before moving and settling in Johnston.
Orville graduated from Johnston High School in 2020, then went to Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) where he studied civil engineering. Shortly after he started attending DMACC, he was diagnosed with cancer, and he battled for two years before succumbing to it. However, despite the difficult life lived in the last two years, Orville stayed positive and never lost his smile until his last breath was taken from him.

Carolyn Sue Hill

Carolyn Sue Hill, 82, of Johnston and formerly of Springfield, Missouri, died from pancreatic cancer at the Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines on Jan. 26, 2023, surrounded by her daughter and grandchildren. Sue was born in Marshfield, Missouri, to Carrie and Virgil Weeks on April 13, 1940. The youngest of five children, she grew up in Marshfield until age 15 when she moved to California.
She moved to Springfield in 1979, where she lived until she retired from St. John’s Hospital in 1996. She has one daughter, Donna (Mike), who gave her three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Sue married the love of her life, Norman “Bud” Hill on July 28, 1984. In her lifetime, she was blessed with five stepchildren, 15 grandchildren, a wealth of great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Sue is preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters Jean, Barbara and Patsy; and stepson John.
Sue will be laid to rest at Greenlawn North Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri, at a future date yet to be determined. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the UnityPoint Taylor House Hospice for the love and care they provided in her final days.

Christopher John Tallman

Christopher John Tallman, 52, died peacefully at home after a long illness on Jan. 28, 2023. Chris was born May 28, 1970, to John and Mary Tallman of Johnston. Shortly after graduating from Dowling Catholic High School, he attended NIACC and the University of Northern Iowa. After college, he was united in marriage to Susan (Spina) Tallman on Nov. 28, 1998, and they enjoyed 24 years together. Chris had a long and successful career as a home builder and painter. He was very skilled in his craft.
Chris is survived by his wife and three children, Katelyn Marie Dullard, Trevor John Tallman and Marisa Ann Tallman; one grandchild; parents; and his two sisters and a brother-in-law.
Funeral services and visitation were held Saturday, Feb. 4, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. Chris was laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Chris. Condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

Anna Marie Prochaska

Anna Marie Prochaska, died Jan. 24, 2023. The daughter of Albert Louis Prochaska and Pauline Lorraine (Zeman) Prochaska, she was born July 6, 1950, in Cresco. Anne was raised on the family farm with her brothers, Joey and David, and her two sisters, Kathleen and Irma. Following graduation from Crestwood High School in 1968, she attended North Iowa Community College in Calmar.
She began her career working at Meredith Corporation in several departments, and eventually found her way to Whitfield Law Firm, where she retired in 2012. She was a skilled wordsmith, a master typist, and worked for many prestigious clients. Anne was a long-time member of Des Moines Fellowship Church.
`Anne was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Joseph. She is lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law, Janice Prochaska; sister, Kathy (Jerry) Chance; sister, Irma (Tim) Kelly; brother, David (Patti) Prochaska; 15 nieces and nephews; and many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be given to Des Moines Fellowship Church.

Walter Wilson Cherry III

Walter Wilson Cherry III was born Oct. 6, 1946, in Tarboro, North Carolina. He was the son of Walter Wilson Cherry Jr. and Mildred Kimball Gammon Cherry. He died on Jan. 24, 2023, in Johnston. Walter Wilson grew up on the family farm along with his younger sister, Millie. He spent his days working the crops alongside his daddy and showing cattle with 4H. Walter Wilson graduated from North Edgecombe High School in 1965 and graduated from North Carolina State University in 1969 with a degree in animal science.
Walter worked in the Cooperative Extension Service, the National Spotted Swine Association and the Marketing Division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture before becoming the executive director of the North Carolina Pork Producers Association. Walter was a licensed auctioneer and worked livestock auctions across the U.S. He volunteered yearly, auctioneering the Junior Livestock Shows for 4-H youth.
In 1985, while traveling through Iowa, Walter met Amy at an establishment called Denny Arthur’s. After a long-distance relationship, they were married at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville on March 18, 1989. They made their home on Goren Place in Raleigh, North Carolina, along with their daughter, Jenna Grace, who was born in 1990, and their son, Britt Wilson, who was born in 1993.
He loved Amy enough to accompany her on a cross country move back to Iowa so that she could be closer to her parents. Together they lived in “the Red House” for eight years, cooking Sunday breakfasts for the “Iowa crowd.”
Walter is survived by his wife, Amy Blenderman Cherry; children Jenna Grace Cherry (Jake Johnson) and Britt Wilson Cherry (Makensie Becker); grandson; sister and multiple other family members.
There will be a pig picking to celebrate Walter’s life in early summer, including slaw, hushpuppies, sweet tea and Mary Matthews cake. Memorials should be sent to the family at 2408 N.E. Beaverbrooke Blvd., Grimes, IA 50111. They will then be directed to a local 4H Livestock Program.

Sarah Jayne Severs

Sarah Jayne Severs died peacefully in her sleep Dec. 14, 2022, at home with her husband by her side. As she desired, she has been cremated and no service is scheduled.
Jayne was born to Harry and Marilyn Bebensee on Feb. 28, 1955, in Atlantic. Jayne’s family moved to Johnston in 1963, and she became a lifelong resident. She graduated from Johnston High School, where she ran track, did drill team and wrestling cheer. Following high school, Jayne graduated from cosmetology school and was a beautician for a short time before starting to work for Bankers Life, which became Principal Life Insurance. She thoroughly loved the various positions she held with Principal. Unfortunately, debilitating migraine headaches put her on disability for the last 22 years of her life. It was during this time she researched her family history and provided detailed information about her maternal and paternal sides of the family. Family members reached out to her for individual backgrounds or burial sites. She enjoyed going to cemeteries with family members and taking notes for her research. Her extensive knowledge of family history has been well documented and will be missed.
Sarah is survived by her husband, Robert Severs; son, Jonathan (Samara) Cheely; two grandsons; step-granddaughter; four step-grandsons; stepdaughter, Krystal (Christopher) Malloy; mother; three siblings; and other family. She was preceded in death by her father, brother-in-law, David J. Bejarno, and grandparents.

Garland Winston Seibert

Garland Winston Seibert, 87, died on Jan. 15, 2023. Garland was born March 3, 1935, to Hayden and Mamie (Steibel) Seibert in Des Moines. He grew up on a farm on N.W. 86th Street in Johnston. He was active in 4-H and was selected to attend Boys State while in high school, where he participated in football, basketball and track. In 1954, after graduating from Johnston High School, he enrolled at Drake University in Des Moines, attending on a football scholarship. He was honored by teammates as a co-captain his senior year. Garland received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Drake University in 1959 and 1962, respectively. He was Kappa Delta Pi (honorary education) and National Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities while at Drake. He was honored to be named to the All-Decade team.
Garland taught at the secondary level of education for 23 years, beginning at Mitchellville High School in 1959. He was athletic director, teacher, coach of football, track and field, and started the wrestling program at Johnston High School. Garland also taught and coached at Bettendorf, Saydel, then at East and Roosevelt high schools in Des Moines, completing his career at Harding Middle School, Des Moines. Following retirement, he volunteered at the Johnston Historical Society, Sunny View Care Center in Ankeny, IPTV, Festival Of Trees, and was a member of DMARSPA.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Marlys; son, Brian; two grandchildren; and sister. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at Memorial Services of Iowa in Ankeny, with burial at Ankeny Memorial Gardens. The family requests no flowers, and memorials may be directed to Drake University School of Education, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50511.

Mary Helen Jaeger

Mary Helen Jaeger, 81, died Jan. 20, 2023, at Edencrest in Johnston. Mary was born on Sept. 15, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, to Frank and Mary (Porath) Perl. She married Ronald Gordon Jaeger on May 6, 1961. Mary was a homemaker for many years until she decided to return to school in 1976 to pursue a degree in nursing. She attended Drake University and Mercy College of Nursing, graduating in 1980 as a registered nurse. Mary and Ron founded Chicago Speakeasy in 1978, and Mary enjoyed working Friday nights in her latter years. After losing Ron in 2002, she settled in Johnston where she enjoyed spending time with her family.
Mary is survived by her four children, Julie Moore, Jeffrey (Renee) Jaeger, John (Laurence) Jaeger and Jennifer (Scott) Scothorn; nine grandchildren; great-grandson; sister; and many other family members. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother.
Visitation and funeral services were held Wednesday, Jan. 25 at Westover Funeral Home in Des Moines, with burial at Resthaven Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Puppy Jake Foundation in Mary’s honor.

Cynthia R. Sund

Cynthia R. Sund, 89, of Johnston, and more recently of Spurgeon Manor, Dallas Center, died Jan. 22, 2023. Cynthia was born Nov. 26, 1933, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Theodore R. and Susan (Welde) Mundt.
Cynthia is survived by her daughters, Christine (Dan) Keller and Stephanie (Jim) Cunningham; son, Daniel (Angie) Sund; grandchildren, Julie (Matt) Ruzek, Betsy (Brook) Hansen, Joe (Karissa) Keller, Megan Cunningham, Nick Cunningham (Perla De Anda), Brock (Olivia) Sund, and Jake (Kelly) Sund; great-grandchildren, Olivia Ruzek, Will Ruzek, Ben Hansen, Ellie Hansen, Sam Keller, Isla Keller, Emmy Keller, Emiliana De Anda-Cunningham, Madeline Sund, Patrick Sund, and Jonathan Sund. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Howard E. Sund; her parents; and brother, Theodore G. Mundt.
Cynthia was a wonderful mother and Granny. She enjoyed fellowship at St. James Lutheran Church. A memorial service was Monday, Jan. 30 at St. James Lutheran Church. Memorials may be directed to Spurgeon Manor or St. James Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com

Charles Claude Blanchard Jr.

Charles Claude Blanchard Jr. died Jan. 16, 2023. He was born in Madrid on Feb. 2, 1929, to Charles Claude Blanchard and Mary “Molly” (Slaten) Blanchard. They settled in Adel. He served in the U.S. Army Air Guard, attended college, was a coal miner and inductee into the Iowa Miners Hall of Fame, and managed a multi-state financial company where he was known as “Doc.” He excelled at sports and can be found in the Adel High School athletics records.
He married Beula Jo (Reed) Blanchard in 1948. They lived in Omaha and Denver before moving to West Des Moines in the 1970s.
He was preceded in death by his wife in 2009; his brother, Bob Blanchard; sisters, Margaret Lepley, LaVurn Sheary and Opal Westerbeck; as well as his brothers- and sisters-in-law. Left to honor his legacy are his sons and their families: Tom Blanchard and his children, Cori (Chris Ulane) and Jeremy (Renee); Randy Blanchard and his wife, Mae, and their children, Jillian (Brian Fassburg), Sam, and Jenna (Tyler Asmus); Scot Blanchard and his wife, Shelly, and their children, Ryan and Joel (Sara); Marty Blanchard and his wife, Ginger, and their children, Maggie (Luke Miller), Reed, Lexie and Anna; sister Joy Fedson; sister-in-law Bonnie Blanchard; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Private family graveside services will be held.

Roger Raymond Martin

Roger Raymond Martin, 92, died on Jan. 16, 2023. He was born near Redfield to Karl and Vera Martin on Aug. 27, 1930. He graduated from Redfield High School in 1948 where he met LaVonne Harmison, the kindergarten teacher who later became his wife. They married on Aug. 21, 1949, and enjoyed 73 years of marriage. Seven children were born into this union.
The family first lived on a small farm on Kennedy Station Road near Redfield. Roger farmed for his dad then later purchased his own home and land in Adel. Roger and LaVonne later moved back to his dad’s farm near Redfield. With the addition of more farmland, Roger formed a partnership with Richard Ticknor for the past 28 years.
Roger and LaVonne built a second home at Lake Panorama in 1970. They were members of the HALO club and Par 3 Golf Course where Roger shot a hole-in-one. He enjoyed golfing and playing cribbage and never missed his “free” morning coffee at the Redfield Co-op. Roger was an active member of the Adel Methodist Church, Adel School Board, PTA, Farm Bureau, Jaycees, Dallas County Pork Producers Association, and Co-op Board. He received an award for Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year.
Roger is survived by his wife; children, Darwin Martin (Joyce), Natalie Pendroy (Jim), David Martin (Karen), Dallas Martin, Minalee Scheuerman and Duane Martin (Lorie); 17 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren. Roger was preceded in death by his parents; son, Daniel Len; brother, Gene Martin; and sister, Jeanine Freestone.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29 at Adel United Methodist Church, 115 S. 10th St., Adel. Visitation will begin one hour prior.

Shirley Jean Fuller

Shirley Jean Fuller, 93, died Jan. 15, 2023. She was a dedicated wife to Bob Fuller (married 53 years until his death in 2001) and his loyal business partner at Fuller Petroleum in Adel. Shirley was born April 7, 1929, in Ottumwa to Harold and Blanch Fredrickson. She was the middle child and loved well by her parents and two brothers and two sisters. Shirley met Bob on a blind date, married Oct. 3, 1948, in Dallas Center and eventually moved to Adel where they raised their four sons.
Shirley loved her family, ceramics, her work as a travel agent, her time in Eastern Star, fishing in Minnesota, Adel Sweet Corn Parade, vacations (especially Colorado and San Francisco), riding her bike, watching old movies, playing cribbage and dominoes with her grandkids, apple salad and homemade ice cream. Throughout her last years, she displayed incredible fortitude, bravery and a strength of character and resiliency that was a shining example to her family.
She is survived by children, Kelly (Debra), Terry (Cathy) and Tom (Linda); 10 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Rick, and sister, Roxie. Her husband, Robert, son, Gregg, and two siblings, Glenn (Bud) Fredrickson and Corrine Grogan, preceded her in death.
A memorial service for Shirley will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25 in Adel at Faith Lutheran Church followed by a private burial in Oakdale Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to remember and celebrate Shirley and attend a luncheon in her honor directly following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Good Samaritan Food Pantry in Adel.

Perry Herman Sims

Perry Herman Sims died Jan. 16, 2023, at home, just one month from his 66th birthday. Perry was born Feb. 16, 1957, in Bainbridge, Maryland, to Perry and Kathryn (Humphrey) Sims. Perry graduated from Temple Texas High school in 1975. He attended Temple Junior College and graduated in 1980 with a degree in vocal music. Perry retired from Wells Fargo. He enjoyed working with youth and serving on the worship band at church. He shared his love of Christ through his singing and helping with youth camps. Perry enjoyed playing and watching sports, especially baseball, “Go Cubs!” He is in the San Diego Little League Hall of Fame. Perry also enjoyed taking his sons on hunting and camping trips.
Perry is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Lynne (Chichester) Sims; sons, Joshua Isaiah Sims and Christopher Austin (Cera Olson) Sims; parents; sister, Joy Laryn (David) Julian; brother, Kendall (Susie) Sims; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeremiah Nathaniel Sims; grandparents; and nephew.
Services were held Friday, Jan. 20 at Crestwood Baptist Church in Des Moines. Memorial contributions can be directed to Crestwood Baptist Church. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

James ‘Jim’ Smith

James “Jim” Smith died Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, at the Taylor House in Des Moines. The family received friends Monday, Jan. 16 at New Hope United Methodist Church where funeral services followed. Burial was at McDivitt Grove Cemetery.
Jim was born June 9, 1934 in Council Bluffs to Clyde and Hazel (Hague) Smith. The family eventually moved to Boone where he graduated from high school in 1952. He was married to Norma Swain on April 27, 1956, in Fort Dodge. Four children were born to this union, and Jim and Norma raised their family in Johnston. Prior to his marriage, Jim served in the Coast Guard from 1952-1956. He was an active member of New Hope UMC, Masonic Lodge and the Optimist Club.
Survivors include his children: Karen of West Des Moines, Kevin (LuAnn) of Polk City and Amy of Johnston; grandsons: Blake (Meghann), Trent (Shantell), and Reed; great-grandchildren: Lena, Everett, Ella, Rue and Drennan James: and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Robert; brother, Jerry; sister, JoAnne (Eldon); and sister-in-law, JoEllen.
Jim spent the first 25 years of his career at The Des Moines Register & Tribune in the circulation department and ended his career helping individuals achieve retirement goals by providing investment and insurance solutions. Jim is best remembered by family and friends for his fierce loyalty and faithfulness and his devotion to his family and faith. Memorial contributions may be made to New Hope United Methodist Church.

Gladys Pauline Townsley

Gladys Pauline Townsley, 89, of Adel, died Jan. 9, 2023, after complications from breaking her hip in a fall on Christmas morning. She was born in Des Moines on Dec. 23, 1933, to Mamie LeMar and Cornelius Wolfe.
Gladys spent most of her life in the restaurant world as a waitress, cook and the occasional bartender. She worked at Bear’s Restaurant & Yankee Clipper in Ankeny as well as running Cisco Tacos behind the bait shop in Polk City for several summers. She also spent some years as an in-home health aide, being not only their caregiver, but cook, housekeeper and friend. She recently battled cervical cancer and won. She had doubts she would be able to do the treatment at first. But she fought every day for eight weeks going to radiation and was proud of her accomplishment.
She is survived by her three girls, Laurie Helen, Betty Gale and Darcy Kay (Kim) Townsley; daughter-in-law Deb Comer (Dick); 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Warnock; and several extended family members. She was preceded in death by her boys, Frank “Frankie,” Johnny and Michael Paul Townsley; daughter-in-law Sheila Seals; parents, Mamie and Charles “Chuck” Clapsaddle; and best friend of 70 years, Kathy Beavers.
A private memorial will be held at a later date.

John Richard Goos

John Richard Goos, 53, of Adel, died Jan. 12, 2023, after a six-month battle with lung cancer. John was born in Ames on April 17, 1969, to Rick and Nancy Goos. After turning 18, he enlisted in the armed forces and earned his GED while serving. After completing basic training in Georgia, he was stationed in Hawaii. John enjoyed the outdoors and working with his hands; thus, he decided to pursue a career in construction after an honorable medical discharge from the armed forces. John returned to Iowa where he met the mother of his children, Staci, and had two sons.
John has joined his brother, Chris Goos; and grandparents, Lee and Beulah Hoffman and Dick and Ginny Goos. He is survived by his mother, Nancy Goos; father, Richard Saar Goos (Linda Goos); sons, Austin and Brandon Goos; brother, Bryan Goos; sister-in-law, Amy Goos; two nephews and many other family and friends.
A burial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27 at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Drive, Adel. Following the service, there will be a celebration of life at the American Legion Post 403, located at 910 Main Street, Van Meter.

Riley Alexander Scharper

Riley Alexander Scharper, 28, of Adel, died Jan. 13, 2023. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21 at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home and Crematory McCalley Chapel. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Clear Lake Municipal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Khloe’s college fund. The family has a GoFundMe account set up at www.gofundme.com/f/ftpbnz-riley-scharper. The family invites others to share any stories or memories they have to rileyscharper63@gmail.com.

Doris Needham Dobbertin

Doris Needham Dobbertin, 92, of Johnston, died Jan. 6, 2023. Doris had a strong love of God and cherished her family. Doris and John raised three sons in their 37 years of marriage. After the passing of her husband, John Needham, she was blessed to have met and fallen in love with Warren Dobbertin. They were married for 12 years and had a wonderful life together until Warren’s passing.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Nina; sister, Verna; and brothers, Francis, Raymond and Harold. She leaves behind her sons, David (Kathi), Kevin (Vicki) and Richard (Pam); four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Warren left Doris a son, Warren Jr. (Connie), and daughter, Jan (Kurt), whom she loved as her own.
Doris will be laid to rest at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery following a graveside service for her immediate family. In lieu of flowers, monetary contributions will be collected by the family and donated to veterans organizations and other charities Doris supported.

Kathleen Janssen

Kathleen Rose (Hanigan) Janssen, 97, of Johnston and formerly of Churdan, died Dec. 31, 2022, at her home in Johnston with her daughter by her side. She was born to Thomas and Catherine Hanigan in Crawford County, near Dunlap. Kathleen spent her young years attending school in Boyer Township, Crawford County, and attended high school at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Dunlap. Kathleen obtained cosmetology licenses from Nebraska and Iowa, going to school in Omaha and Sioux City. She operated a beauty salon in Dunlap from 1944 until 1951, when she married and moved to the farm near Churdan.
In 1951, Kathleen married Harold E. Janssen of Churdan. To this union was born a daughter, Coleen Marie Janssen. Kathleen was a member of St. Patrick’s and St. Columbkille’s Catholic Churches of Churdan. After she moved to Johnston, she became a member of St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband in 1977; two brothers and their wives; two sisters and their husbands; and one brother-in-law. She is survived by her daughter; sister, Virginia Klein; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
A mass of Christian burial was held Saturday, Jan. 7, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church near Churdan, with burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.

Viola I. Stout

Viola I. Stout, 88, died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at Kavanagh House in Des Moines. A private family service will be held at a later date.
Viola was born Aug. 19, 1934, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, to Norbert and Lorraine (Coleman) Pitsch. After graduating high school in 1952, Viola earned an associate’s degree in medical science and research. She worked as director of medical records for many years and later as an administrative assistant for Toshiba Electronics before her retirement.
Memberships included the Elks Lodge in Prescott, Arizona, and St. James Lutheran Church. Viola enjoyed art, gardening and oil painting.
Survivors include her daughter: Jill (Gary) Wilson; step-children: Mark (Dawn) Stout and David (Janet) Stout; granddaughter, Lily Wilson; and sister, Violet Tolnitz of Prescott, Arizona. Viola was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, in 2021; sons: Scott and Jeffrey Evans; and siblings: Joanne Blake and Norbert Pitsch.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Chad Totten Christenson

Chad Totten Christenson, 47, of Johnston, died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. A gathering of family and friends will take place on Jan. 15 at 2 p.m. at the Jester Park Lodge, 11121 Jester Park Drive, Granger, for an afternoon of sharing Chad’s life and love of his family. Due to an immunocompromised member of the family in attendance, they appreciate your concern for their health if you cannot attend due to an illness.

Sandra R. Reed

Sandra R. Reed, 85, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, at Brio of Johnston Retirement Community. A private family celebration of Sandra’s life will be held.
Sandy was born May 24, 1937, to Donald and Marjorie (Neuman) Mason in Des Moines. She was raised in Ames and received her teaching degree from Iowa Teacher’s College. Sandy was a homemaker and worked as an Avon Lady, making the President’s Club several times. She enjoyed family fishing trips to Canada, gardening and bird watching. Sandy had many beloved pets throughout her life. She loved her grandchildren and helped raise her grandson, Joshua.
Survivors include her children: Debbie (Jack Blom) Hanauer, Rick (Christine) Reed and Jeff (Sandy) Reed; grandchildren: Joshua Hanauer, Sara Reed, Alejandro Reed, Gabby Salcido, Luc Salcido; sister, Barbara Prince; and nieces and nephews: Tracy, Tim, Nico, Rigo, Tyson and Kyle. Sandy was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; brothers: Terry Mason and Dickie Mason; and sister-in-law, Pat (Bob) Crutcher.
Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Rescue League or Furry Friends. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.