Iowa Living Magazines

David Allen Lansing

David Allen Lansing, 80, died Aug. 19, 2022. Dave was born in Rolfe. He graduated from Indianola High School, Simpson College and later received his master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State. Dave coached high school boys’ basketball for 33 years, was a two-time state golf champion coach, and, in retirement, was a Hall of Fame softball umpire. He was a member of the Iowa Basketball Coaches Association, and, in 1999, was inducted into the Iowa Boys Basketball Hall of Fame.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diane Lansing; children, Angela Lansing, Greg (Kristi) Lansing and Steve Lansing; and four grandchildren. Services were held Friday, Aug. 26 at Westview Church in Waukee. Memorials may be directed to the Waukee Area Christian Services. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Avis Eleanor (Sanderson) Richards

Avis Eleanor (Sanderson) Richards, 88, of Waukee died Aug. 24, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Avis was born in Willmar, Minnesota, the daughter of Rudolph (Duff) M. Sanderson and Helen Garman. She was a member of Des Moines Women’s Club. Avis was proud to be a founding member of Walnut Hills United Methodist Church and continued worshiping there for the rest of her life. Avis is survived by her four children; Elizabeth, Paul, David and Daniel.
A memorial service was held Monday, Aug. 29 at Walnut Hills United Methodist Church in Urbandale. Memorials can be directed to the Walnut Hills United Methodist Church in Avis’s honor. Condolences may be left directly to the family by visiting www.IowaCremation.com.

Ellen Lane

Ellen Lane, 92, of Waukee, died Aug. 22, 2022. Ellen was born in Missouri to Horace and Ada (Wiliams) Dawson. The Dawson family moved to the Runnells area when she was 13. In 1948, she married Russell Lane, and they raised two daughters in Runnells. After Russell’s death, Ellen moved to Adel and then Waukee, where she lived the past 20 years.
Ellen is survived by her daughter, Kathy Forret; two grandsons and three great grandsons. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Karla; husband, Russell; parents and two brothers. Private graveside services were held Friday, Aug. 26 at Lowman Cemetery in Runnells.

Carol Ann Newberry Hackney

Carol Ann Newberry Hackney, 86, a resident at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center, formerly of Adel, Grinnell, Newton and Conway, Arkansas, died on Aug. 26, 2022, after a long and valiant battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Carol was born Aug. 7, 1936, at home in Faulkner County, Arkansas, to Forun and Lois Powell Newberry. Her father died when she was only 8, so she helped to raise her sisters while her mother worked in the cotton fields to make ends meet. They later moved into town to Conway, where her mother met and married Zane Lovidee Strickland, and a brother was born to their family. The family moved north to Newton in her early teens. Carol is a graduate of Newton High School.
Carol married Keith Hackney, and they had three children. She spent many years raising the children. When they were older, she had many different jobs (dime store clerk, meat department, jewelry store clerk, dry cleaner clerk, grocery store clerk, and working at the school lunch program), but her favorite was being with her kids. She had seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She was a particularly good bowler and had many years at state tournaments.
She is survived by her daughter, Barb (Dick) Wicks of Adel; sons Doug (Stephanie) Hackney of Georgetown, Texas, and Jeff (Michele) Hackney of Temple, Texas; grandchildren Matthew Wicks, Melissa (Sean) Doyle, Adam (Carrie) Hackney, Amber Holeman-Richardson, Vance (Alex) Hackney, Chari Verespej and Shaun Verespej; great grandchildren Madison Wicks, Faith and Blakley Doyle, Madalynn, Hanna, and Tyler Hackney, Nakeya Richardson, Julia and Troy Holeman; and sisters Brenda Damman and Wanda (Dick) Lammey, brother Rick (Marsha) Strickland and 11 nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life with a visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Adel, from 4-6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2. Funeral services will be at Faith Lutheran Church, Adel, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 3. Burial will be at Oakdale Cemetery in Adel. Memorials are suggested to Spurgeon Manor or Faith Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

John Clarence Wicks

John Clarence Wicks, 81, died Aug. 21, 2022, at Edencrest in Tuscany in Altoona. John was born to Dale and Ruth Wicks in Adel. John spent his early years as a carpenter building many houses in the Adel area. From there he worked various trades in Illinois and Wisconsin before moving to Des Moines, where he worked as a maintenance man for Adventureland Inn until his retirement. John married the love of his life, Maureen Barton Wicks, in 1978, with a ceremony in their new home which John built in Adel.
John is survived by his son Mike Wicks; stepdaughter Julie (Art) Jeffries; four grandchildren; a great grandchild; four siblings and many friends. John is preceded in death by his wife; son Marty Wicks; stepdaughter Jolene Watson; brother Paul Wicks; and his parents.
Services were held Thursday, Sept. 1 at Brooks Funeral Care, 7975 University Blvd., Clive.

Dorothy C. Steen

Dorothy C. Steen (nee Fauth), 85, of Johnston, died Aug. 13, 2022. She was born in Medina, North Dakota. She is survived by her children, Sandra Vera, Randahl Steen (Diana) and Susan Botts (Steve); three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother; and four nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Sophie Fauth (nee Moser); sister and brother-in-law.
Dorothy graduated from Medina High School in 1955 then attended Westmar College in LeMars. She also later took numerous classes at Estherville Community College and earned significant college credit from work experience. Dorothy became a member of her local church in Medina during high school, attended the Methodist/United Methodist Church in Spirit Lake, and became a “Mahdi” in the church of Eckankar, which allowed her to teach classes (her favorite was on dreams) and perform ceremonies as clergy. She enjoyed attending worldwide Eck seminars.
Dorothy had a variety of jobs over her lifetime: telephone operator, co-manager of indoor and outdoor theaters (Royal and Spirit), Berkley and Co. homeworker; bookkeeper; grocery store cashier; a Department of Human Services caseworker in Iowa and Texas; and a collections agent. She lived in many places, including North Dakota, Texas, Nebraska and, in Iowa: LeMars, Spirit Lake, Arnolds Park, Bettendorf, West Des Moines and Johnston.
Dorothy’s inurnment will be private. However, you can honor her memory by donating in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Linda Lee Wentland

Linda Lee Wentland (née Veldman) died Monday, Aug. 22, 2022, at her home in Adel. Linda was a devoted wife to her husband, Allen, of 45 years, and a proud and loving mother to her seven children. Linda’s life was full of love and family, and nothing was more important to her than her children and grandchildren. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, to Richard and Shirley Veldman, Linda came from a large family with her three brothers and four sisters, before going on to start her own. Creative and spirited, Linda enjoyed sewing, baking and working in her garden, tending the beautiful flowers that made her happy. She enjoyed collecting things that made her smile, ranging from keychains and clocks to memorabilia of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, of which she was a lifelong fan. She will be remembered as a caring and loving mother, raising and guiding not only her own children, but the many others she babysat, took under her wing, or supported in all their hopes and dreams. Linda will be greatly missed, but her memory and legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and all the lives she touched while on her journey.
Linda is survived by her husband, Allen; her children, Nicholas, Justin, Trisha, Sadie, Alyssa, Nicole and Sharissa; her grandchildren, Michael, Serena, Alexavior, Aries, Arwyn and Gwendolyn; and her siblings, Michael, David, Donna, Kathleen, Barbara and Todd. She is preceded in death by her father, Richard; mother, Shirley; and sister, Joyce.
A celebration of life will be held at the Adel Public Library Community Room on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 3-6 p.m.

Sharon Rochholz

Sharon Rochholz, 81, of West Des Moines, formerly of Adel, died Aug. 22, 2022, at MercyOne Medical Center. A visitation will take place at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home in Adel on Aug. 26 from 10-10:45 a.m., followed immediately by a procession that will depart to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery for the committal service which will begin at 11 a.m.
Sharon Rochholz was born Oct. 23, 1940 to Arnold and Marjorie (Clark) Griffin in Anita. Sharon graduated Anita High School in 1958. On Aug. 1, 1959, Anita was united in marriage with Larrie Rochholz. To this union two children were born, Cara and Rob. Sharon was a dedicated housewife for many years and also worked for Valley Industrial Services after her children were older. She was a collector of many things and especially enjoyed decorating for Christmas. She also enjoyed painting ceramics, reading and frequenting a good garage sale to find her next treasures. While she had numerous hobbies, her most cherished time was with her family and friends.
She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Larrie; children, Cara Campbell and Rob Rochholz; grandchildren, Ashley Campbell, Brooke Sekulich and Braden Campbell; one great-grandchild, Lily; sisters, Sandra and Judy; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Gloria.

Claydon Polzin

Claydon Polzin, 90, of Waukee, died Friday, Aug. 19, 2022. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – McCalley Chapel in Adel. His children will greet friends and family at the funeral home for one hour before the service on Saturday. Burial will be held at a later date.
Claydon was born on Sept. 21, 1931, in rural South Dakota. He was a member of the Resurrection Church in Ankeny. He was a veteran of the Korean War and a retired U.S. Postal Service employee. He enjoyed reading, comics, spending time with family and good conversations. Claydon rarely went anywhere without meeting someone he knew.
He is survived by his three children, Paulette (Michael) Philpott, Clay (Shel) Polzin and Cathilyn Polzin; three grandchildren, Carlie (Alex) Philpott, Ryan Philpott and Jenna Polzin; five great-grandchildren, Caitlin, Caleb, Tristan, Traxton and Trycen Philpott; and his sister, Donna Magedanz.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Marion; his parents; two brothers and two sisters.
In lieu of flowers, send memorial donations to the Korean War Veterans Association. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Shirley Stout

Shirley Stout, 85, of Pleasant Hill, formerly of Adel, died Aug. 12, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice in Johnston. Shirley was born in Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, to Glenn and Virginia (McGaughy) Ault. Shirley is survived by her husband, Stephen Stout; children, Glenn (Stephanie) Stout, Karen (Terry) Blanchard, and Gary (Corrine) Stout; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Moses) Powell-Eckstein, Matthew Blanchard, Ben Blanchard, Rebekah Blanchard, Tyler Stout, Sidney Stout, Trevor Stout and Gabe Stout; and her sister, Frances Lucas. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sandra Gasperini; and grandchildren, Joshua Blanchard and Ashley Stout.
Visitation was held Wednesday, Aug. 17 at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home and burial was at Oakdale Cemetery in Adel. Memorial contributions can be directed to Rapids Street Baptist Church. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Deloris Ann Wilson

Deloris Ann Wilson died Aug. 14, 2022, at Independence Village Senior Care in Waukee. The daughter of Robert and Alta Ferguson, she was born on a farm west of Yale in 1929. She was proud to say that she attended Victory No. 1 and No. 2 country schools during her early years. She graduated from Yale High School in 1947.
In 1950, Deloris married Marion Wilson. They resided in Des Moines until 1952 when they moved to a farm west of Yale, where they had two sons. In 1962, the family moved to a farm south of Bagley, where she resided until Marion’s death in 1977. She spent several years working at local nursing homes during this time. She later moved with her companion, Veryl Olofson, to Waukee to be closer to family.
Deloris is survived by her son John (Deanna) Wilson; daughter-in-law Carolyn Wilson; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law Bill (Janet) Wilson. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, son Robert, brother Paul, and companion Veryl Olofson.
Private family graveside services were held at Moffitt Grove Cemetery in rural Guthrie Center. Visitation was held Sunday, Aug. 21 at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Sherree Reynolds Black

Sherree Reynolds Black, 59, died at home in Waukee on Aug. 16, 2022. She was born to Marvin and Margaret (Tallent) Reynolds in Atlanta, Georgia. Sherree married Jerry Black in 1996. They resided in Summerville, Georgia, until moving to Marshalltown in 2006 and eventually settling in Waukee in 2011. Sherree worked and studied hard and obtained her G.E.D. at the age of 45 and would go on to receive her nursing degree from Marshalltown Community College. She worked as an L.P.N. with the Des Moines VA Medical Center for a number of years.
She is survived by her husband; children, Brandon Clay Reynolds, Shelby Isabella Reynolds, Misty Rose (Yobel Ande) Black, Emily Justine (Jacob) Bailiff, Jonathon Shane (Abbey) Reynolds and Joshua Morgan; eight grandchildren and a brother. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27 at Marshalltown Church of Christ, 1402 S. Center St., Marshalltown. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Sherree’s final arrangements.

Kenneth Ralph Prideaux

Kenneth Ralph Prideaux, 91, of Johnston, died Aug. 7, 2022, at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center. Ken was born in Swampscott, Massachusettes. He was a member of the class of 1949 at Swampscott High School and a 1953 graduate of Sioux Falls College (now Sioux Falls University) in South Dakota.
Ken began his working career as a newspaper reporter and wrote news and sports for several newspapers including the Centralia Fireside Guard, Creston News Advertiser, Nevada Evening Journal, Council Bluffs Nonpareil, and the Des Moines Register. While writing sports in Council Bluffs, he met Janet Jenkins at church. They married in 1964. In 1967, he began working for the State of Iowa as a disability examiner, where he retired after 29 years.
Ken is survived by his wife; children, Todd (Jodi), Corey (Amy “Brem” Bremers) and Michelle; six grandchildren; and one great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his brother, Donald, and daughter, Amy.
Funeral services were held Friday, Aug. 19 at First Baptist Church in Johnston, with interment at Oak Grove Cemetery in rural Missouri Valley, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church or Heifer Project International. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Donald Dean Trupke

Donald Dean Trupke, 92, of Johnston, died Aug. 6, 2022, at Brio in Johnston. He received his education in Carroll, where he graduated in 1948. He then enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country for two years. Following his discharge, he married Marion Swain in 1960.
Don and Marion made their home Algona, where they owned and operated Trupke Electric Motors Sales and Service and sold Milwaukee Tools from 1956-1995. Following Marion’s death in 2012, Don remained in Algona. For the past two years, he has been living at Brio in Johnston.
He is survived by a brother-in-law, Jim Smith; nephew Kevin (LuAnn) Smith; nieces Karen Smith and Amy Smith; three great-nephews, Blake (Meghann) Smith, Trent (Shantell) Smith, Reed Smith, and their children. Private family graveside services were held at the River View Cemetery in Algona.

Larry (Hayshaker) Snyder

Larry (Hayshaker) Snyder, 79, of Adel and Waukee, died Monday, Aug. 15, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 19 at the Adel First Christian Church, with burial at the Waukee Cemetery. Family greeted friends Thursday, Aug. 18 at the First Christian Church in Adel.
Larry grew up with his sister, Sharon, and parents, Bruce and Dorothy Snyder, on the family’s Heritage Farm and Timberline Ranch Campground at Waukee. He graduated in 1961. He had two sons, TC and Travis, with his first wife, Gwen Belgarde. Later, he married Patricia Beal and had a daughter, Lacey.
Larry was always ready to share a story from many years hauling fuel and 17 years as transport driver for Iowa Lottery, retiring in 2010. In retirement, he drove part-time for Ankeny Sanitation and Manning Farms. Larry was passionate about his 1963 split-window, NASCAR and drag racing, breakfast with his buddies, and old Westerns. He was a member of Adel First Christian Church, with a soft spot for kids going to camp and the Kid’s Closet.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Patricia; children, TC (Tina), Travis (Shawn) and Lacey Sedrel (John); sister, Sharon Hurst (Doug); grandchildren, Riata, Colton, Tatum, Piper, Timbre, Codi; mother-in-law, Margaret Beal; brothers-in-law, Bruce Beal (Debbie) and Jeff Beal (Mari); nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be directed to Adel First Christian Church, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, National Kidney Foundation, or American Diabetes Foundation. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Robert ‘Bob’ Gillespie

After many days of being surrounded by friends and family, Robert “Bob” Gillespie died on Aug. 15, 2022 at the Johnston Hospice Care facility from an advanced stage of pancreatic cancer. Bob was born on Jan. 16, 1954 in Kalispell, Montana, to parents Bill and Gerri Gillespie, and was welcomed by two older brothers, Jim and Dan, and later joined by a younger brother, George. At the age of 15, Bob and his family moved to Granger.
Bob attended Stuart-Menlo high school and, at the tender age of 16, met the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betsie” Feltz. Bob and Betsie graduated from high school in 1972 and were joined in marriage on Oct. 6, 1973 in Dexter. They would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this October. Bob and Betsie moved to Adel in 1982 to raise their two children, Adam and Kelley. He finished his working career at the USPS after 25 years of service and poured his heart and soul into his job of being grandpa to his best buddies, Maggie and Theo.
Grandpa and Maggie had fun hunting for pirate treasure and hunting for squirrels. Theo enjoyed helping Grandpa build a good fire and kept him busy watching countless hours of Curious George. Bob had a lifelong love of tending his lawn and plants, kept the birds and squirrels well fed and was passionate about the photography and genealogy of his family.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21 with a visitation one hour prior at the Country Lane Lodge in Adel. Refreshments and fellowship will follow. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.
Bob is survived by his wife, Betsie; son, Adam (Dianna) Gillespie; daughter, Kelley (Jacob) Gillespie-Miller; grandchildren, Maggie Gillespie and Theo Miller; brothers, Jim Gillespie, Dan Gillespie and George (Peggy) Gillespie; along with many beloved nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William Gillespie and Geraldine Nelson; step-father, Lowell Nelson; and sister-in-law, Susan Gillespie.

Cheryl Elaine Thompson

Cheryl Elaine Thompson died on Aug. 15, 2022, at her home in Des Moines surrounded by those she loved. Funeral services were Friday, Aug. 19 at Caldwell Parrish McCalley Chapel in Adel with burial at North McDonald Cemetery in rural Madison County.
Cheryl was married to Roger for 44 years, and together they raised Jason, Joshua, Kristen, Laura and Justin. Cheryl loved spending time with her 18 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, sharing her love of homemade cookies and brownies, and huge bowls of Chex Mix.
Cheryl graduated from Waukee High School, where she ran on the first girls track team in the school’s history. She enjoyed her time as a records clerk for the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, and, after retirement, spent her time traveling to quilt shops all over the Midwest. She was a talented artist, creating beautiful quilts (her largest had more than 2,000 hand-cut pieces), cross stitch designs, and crocheted lap blankets. For many years, Cheryl could be found at any number of outdoor blues concerts across the city, book in hand, eyes alert for good people-watching. She loved puzzles (and even completed one with 5,000 pieces), “Wheel of Fortune” and only ever ate her M&Ms three at a time.
Cheryl is survived by her husband, Roger Thompson; children Jason (Judy) Thompson, Josh (Sunny) Thompson, Kristen (Chris) Holcomb, Laura (Nick) Pence and Justin Thompson; mother Lola (Baumgardner) Brittain; and siblings Steven, Shirley, Randy, Michael and David.
She was preceded by her grandparents, father Arthur Eugene (Gene) Brittain and brother Ronald Brittain.
Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

John Roger Evans

John Roger Evans, known as Roger, died Aug. 6, 2022, at age 89. Roger was born in Champaign, Illinois. The family eventually settled in Des Moines. Roger graduated from North High School in 1951. He was enlisted in the U.S. Army (PFC) during the Korean War (stateside) from 1953-1955 and was a member of the 2nd Division stationed in Fort Lewis, Washington.
Roger worked part-time at Bankers Life prior to and while attending college. It was there he met his wife of nearly 65 years, Jean Fletchall Evans. They married in 1957 and had three children.
The family lived in Altoona, Ankeny and eventually moved to Waukee in 2005.
Roger earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Drake University in 1959 and his master’s in education from the University of Missouri in 1961. He taught high school in Osage, Eddyville and Indianola, worked as a high school guidance counselor at Southeast Polk and West Marshall, and served as public school coordinator for the State of Iowa. His favorite job was his last: being a college professor at Grand View, where he taught psychology and human services.
Roger was an active member of the First Unitarian Church of Des Moines. He was also a member of the National Education Association and the American Civil Liberties Union.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, three siblings and their spouses, and three nephews. He is survived by his wife; children Gregg (Wanda Bill) Evans, Diane (Jim Clover) Evans, and Stephanie (Dan Campanella) Evans; three grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
Roger’s ashes will be interred in the Columbarium Wall at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel. A celebration of Roger’s life will be held at a date to be announced later. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Lillian M. ‘Fritzi’ Reeves

Lillian M. “Fritzi” Reeves, 89, of Waukee, died Aug. 7, 2022. Fritzi was born in Granite City, Illinois. She was an accomplished bowler and golfer and was accredited in 1974 by the U.S. Library of Congress as a Braille transcriber. Parkinson’s confined Fritzi to wheelchairs for the last eight years of her life, but even that couldn’t slow her down.
She is survived by two children, Stephen D. Reeves and Valerie Marie Hewitt. She was preceded in death by her son Keith Carl Reeves and her husband Gurney “David” Reeves. Condolences may be shared at www.AnkenyFuneralHome.com.

David Franklin Erickson

David Franklin Erickson, 50, of Johnston, died Aug. 3, 2022. He was born in Creston and graduated from East Union High School in 1990. He continued his education at Southwestern, earning his associate of arts degree in accounting. He later continued his education at Des Moines Area Community College.
In June 1997, Dave married Michelle L. Cunningham. They were later divorced. In August 2009, Dave married Melissa Hart in West Des Moines. Dave and Melissa were later divorced. Dave worked in many different Hy-Vee Stores and was involved in many different high-profile catering events serving the likes of the U.S. president and Iowa governor. Most recently, Dave had taken a position with ABM doing contract kitchen/dietary work and was becoming a certified dietician. Dave was a member of the United Methodist Church and a former member of the Masonic Lodge.
Dave is survived by his four children, Brandon, Jamie, Alex and Christopher; his parents; paternal grandmother; two sisters; four nephews; one niece; and many other extended family members. Dave is preceded in death by three grandparents, six uncles and one aunt.
Visitation was Thursday, Aug. 11 at Powers Funeral Home in Creston. A celebration of life service was Friday, Aug. 12 at First United Methodist Church in Creston. Online condolences may be expressed at www.powersfh.com.

Dorothy J. Kreider

Dorothy J. Kreider, 90, died on Aug. 2, 2022, at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston. Dorothy was born in Warren County to William P. and Vera M. (Hurst) Coffman. She graduated from Indianola High School in 1950. In 1952, she married John E. Kreider. They lived in the Des Moines area. Dorothy worked at Iowa Automobile Dealers Association until she retired in 1997.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, son John, three sisters and four brothers. She will be missed by daughters Rhonda Eden and Lori DuBay (Mark); daughter-in-law; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, with one on the way in January.
Graveside services were Friday, Aug. 12 at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Croix Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association of Iowa.

Richard ‘Rick’ Babcock

Richard “Rick” Babcock, 60, of Johnston, died Aug. 6, 2022. He was born Jan. 22, 1962. A celebration of life, praise and worship service were held on Friday, Aug. 12, at Pathway Church, 6523 Merle Hay Road. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Pathway Church in Richard’s name for donuts, music, sound and kids ministries.

E. Carl White II

E. Carl White II, 83, died July 31, 2022, at Arbor Springs in West Des Moines. Carl was born in Des Moines. The family moved to Mason City, and Carl graduated from Mason City High School in 1957. He attended Grand View University and worked for the Waldinger Corporation for more than 20 years. For the next 19 years, Carl worked for the West Des Moines School District, retiring in 2007. Carl was a member of Pioneer No. 22 Masonic Lodge. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn. Carl was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Darlene.
Funeral services were Friday, Aug. 5 at West Des Moines United Methodist Church, with graveside services at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Adair. Memorial contributions may be made to the Little Light House, 5120 E. 36th St., Tulsa, OK 74135. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Myrtle ‘Louise’ Clark

Myrtle “Louise” Clark died July 26, 2022, at Edencrest Green Meadows in Johnston, where she resided for five years. She was born to Philip Roberts and Maymie Gwinn Roberts in Derby. Louise is survived by her daughters, Maymie Stout, Sandy Wollard and Joyce (Mike) Roby; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one nephew; and two nieces.
Funeral services were held Monday, Aug. 1 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, Des Moines, with burial at Pine Hill Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Niels Nielsen

Niels Nielsen, 86, died July 26, 2022, at Adel Acres. Niels was born to Julie and Peter Nielsen in Elma. He attended school through eighth grade and began working in the heating and cooling industry. He later worked for Ryco in Grimes as a machinist. Niels was a talented handyman and could fix most anything.
He is survived by his children, Jullie Richmond, Valerie (Richard) Wahl and Tara Widmer. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Nielsen; brother, Marvin Nielsen; and sons, Tiff and Peter Nielsen. Memorials may be directed to the family and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Marjorie Bean

Marjorie Marie Bean, 79, died surrounded by family July 29, 2022. She was born in Des Moines. Marjorie is survived by her husband of 36 years, Alfred Bean; children, Joyce Bell, Joe (Angie) Carter and Julie (Mike) Young; step-children, Allen (Lisa) Bean, Andrew Bean, Susan Fuentes, Tina (Patrick) Riley and LaVonne Craghead; 36 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; brother, Larry (Kathy) Shaeffer; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Yarwood; father, Floyd Shaeffer; brother, Ronnie Gates and grandson, Jared Bean.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at Union Park Baptist Church, Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in loving memory of Marjorie to Union Park Baptist Church or Family Adventures, 728 Little Wekiva Circle, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Lisa Louise Mickael

Lisa Louise Mickael of Adel died Aug. 1, 2022, in her home. Lisa was born on June 6, 1964. She graduated high school in 1982, and soon after married Duane Mickael. They had two children, Melissa and Justin, before divorcing but remaining lifelong friends.
She had another daughter, Elisabeth “Beth,” with her partner Patrick “Pat” Lantz.
In 1995, Lisa and Pat opened Patrick’s Restaurant on the Adel square. It was an Adel institution of 27 years. Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Louise Mague; her children, Melissa Mickael, Justin Mickael (Kady), and Elisabeth Mickael (Justin); her step-son, Justin Lantz (Kari); her brother, Steve Mague (Angie); her sister, Susan Dunsmoor (Chris); her grandkids, Charlotte, Elsie, Violet, and Beckett; and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, John Mague, and her partner of 32 years, Patrick Lantz.
A visitation will be held Monday, Aug. 8 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – McCalley Chapel in Adel, from 5-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home on Tuesday, Aug. 9. The burial will take place after the service at Oakdale Cemetery in Adel.
Memorials are to Lisa’s family. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Sara Lynn Figgins

Sara Lynn Figgins, 43, died July 22, 2022. Sara was born in Des Moines to Dave and Marcia (Fleischacker) Campbell. She graduated in 1997 from Saydel High School and attended DMACC, receiving her Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) degree in 2000. She married Will Figgins in 2003. Sara worked as a CMA at East Des Moines Family Clinic, UnityPoint Family Medicine in Johnston and at North Polk High School as a school nurse for the past four years. Sara wrote a blog called “Learning the Frugal Life” beginning in 2009.
She was preceded in death by her father and three grandparents. She is survived by her husband; children Jacob (Shelby) Figgins, Laura (Amber King) Figgins, Brodie Figgins, Drew Figgins and Emily Figgins; seven grandchildren; mother; step-mother; paternal grandfather; sister and brother; and many extended family members.
Services were held at Lakeside Fellowship Church in Polk City on Sunday, July 31 and Monday, Aug. 1. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family, in loving memory of Sara.

Wayne Grems

Wayne Grems died peacefully July 29, 2022. He was born June 1, 1943. Wayne is survived by his wife, Beverly; children Matt (Amanda) Grems and Jewels Harrison (Chad Leeper); two grandchildren; three step-grandkids; brother Dennis (Eileen) Grems and family; sisters Barbara (Donald) Fisher and family and Deloris (Robert) Duncomb and family; brothers-in-law Raymond (Lonnie) Armstrong and family and Dennis (Mary) Armstrong and family.
A celebration of life will be held noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6 at Kenny’s Garage, 605 Ashworth Drive, Waukee. Food will be provided by Grems’ Pit Happens BBQ. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate assistance with attorney and nursing home fees incurred while awaiting approval from Medicaid. Donations may be offered at the event, via Beverly Grems’ Zelle Account (515-210-3574) or by mail to 555 S.E. Laurel St., Unit 23, Waukee, IA 50263.

Madonna Durham

Madonna “Miss Madonna” Jean Durham, 93, died July 25, 2022. She was born in Rexfield, the daughter of Perry and Naomi (Engstrom) Welch. Madonna grew up in Melcher Dallas and later moved to Des Moines, graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1947. In 1989, she married Henry L. “Hank” Durham and moved to Mountain Home, Arkansas, where they lived for 30 years.
Madonna enjoyed teaching Sunday school, acting as a Baxter County Prayer Warrior, and sharing the word of God with others. Madonna was a member of the Hawkeye Thimblers and Extension Club.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children Chuck (Terri Vioglavich) Sample, Mike (Dawn King) Sample, Daryl Sample, Joy (Brad Jump) Schneider; step-children, Mary (Doug) Neves, Ruth (Ron) Harrison, and Bill (Kate) Durham; two sisters; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Philip Welch; sisters, Carol Welch and Marilyn Welch; and husband.
Funeral services were Saturday, July 30 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, with burial at Melcher Dallas Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Miss Madonna. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Kathryn Frances (Holcomb) Petersen

Kathryn Frances (Holcomb) Petersen died July 26, 2022. She was born in 1941 to Kenneth and Annette (Bestenlehner) Holcomb in Whittemore. She grew up in Algona and graduated from St. Cecelia School. Kay married Jerry Petersen in 1960. They lived in various places in Iowa and Oregon, eventually settling in Waukee, where they retired and lived at the time of her death. Kay had various jobs throughout her life: farm wife, waitress, grocery clerk, bartender and cook, U.S. Postal worker, convenience store manager, head cook and print office manager of Waukee High School.
She is survived by her husband; children Debbie (Steven) Gray, Tom (Char) Petersen and Lorrie (Dave) Pullman; and six grandchildren; and siblings, Bill (Kitty) Holcomb and Cynthia Ellis. She was preceded in death by four siblings.
A celebration of life was held Monday, Aug. 1 at Ernst Funeral Home, Waukee. A family graveside service was held at East Lawn Cemetery in Algona on Wednesday, Aug. 3, followed by a family reception. In lieu of flowers, Kay and the family ask that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Sister Harriett (Mary St. Edward) Ping, CHM

Sister Harriett (Mary St. Edward) Ping, CHM, 89, died July 22, 2022, at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston. She was born in Fort Madison. She entered the Congregation of the Humility of Mary in 1951 and professed vows in 1954.
Sister received degrees from Ottumwa Heights College, Marycrest College and the University of North Dakota. From 1954 to 1981, she taught science and math at eight schools, including schools in Davenport, Ottumwa, Dunlap, Le Mars, Marshalltown and Fort Madison. She then served as a librarian for Marycrest College and Teikyo Marycrest University in Davenport. From there, she served as a receptionist and bookkeeper for Martina Place in Johnston until her retirement in 2002.
During her retirement at Humility of Mary Center, Sister volunteered at Our Lady of the Prairie Retreat and Humility of Mary Housing, Inc. In 2016, her Ministry of Prayer and Witness continued at Bishop Drumm.
Sister Harriett was preceded in death by a brother. She is survived by two nephews, niece, eight grand-nieces, grand-nephew, and 10 great-grand-nieces and nephews, along with her CHM sisters and associates.
Services were held Thursday, July 28 at Bishop Drumm Our Lady of Peace Chapel. A rosary and vigil service were held Friday, July 29, at Humility of Mary Center, Davenport. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, July 30 at Magnificat Chapel in Humility of Mary Center. Memorials may be made to the Congregation of the Humility of Mary. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Judith Elaine Boat

Judith “Judy” Elaine Boat, 82, died July 11, 2022. Born in Yale, Judy was the youngest of 10 children. She graduated from North High School in 1957 and married Dale later that year. Although she worked periodically throughout her life, she enjoyed being a homemaker and focused her attention on raising their three children: Randy (Stephanie) Boat, Paula Ziems, and Laine (Tom) Buck. She also adored being a grandma to nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Dale and Judy moved to Grand Living Assisted Living in West Des Moines five months ago after living their entire adult lives in the Des Moines area.
Funeral services were held on Friday, July 15 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th St., West Des Moines. Memorial contributions are encouraged to be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of the Midwest or the American Cancer Society.

Steven Lee Logsdon

Steven Lee Logsdon, 40, died July 9, 2022, following a swimming accident. Steven was born to Michael and Gale Logsdon in Humboldt. He was a 2000 graduate of Valley High School and graduated from Iowa State University with an ethics and business background. Ronald McDonald’s House and Adopt-A-Family were some of his passions for community involvement.
He leaves behind his mother; brothers, Justin (Megan) and Andrew (Melissa); two grandmothers; four nephews; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and a host of friends. Steve was preceded in death by his father. A memorial service was held Monday, July 18 at Hamilton’s, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

James ‘Jim’ Dale Jones

James “Jim” Dale Jones, 77, of Johnston, died at home on July 2, 2022. Jim was born in Kirksville, Missouri. Jim graduated from Novinger R-1 schools in 1963, then the University of Missouri (Mizzou) in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. In 1967, he married Janice Bailey. They had two sons, James Paul and Christopher Dale. He began his career in 1968 at Bankers Life in Des Moines, now Principal Financial Group, and retired after more than 40 years of service.
In his younger years, he was an avid runner, completing several marathons and other distance events. Later, he took up bicycling and completed several RAGBRAIs. He was an avid reader of all things and was a common sight at the local library wherever he lived.
Jim is survived by his sons James (Cathy Dakovich-Jones) and Chris (Jan); four grandchildren; a sister; and numerous extended family and friends.
A celebration of life was held Sunday, July 17 at the Des Moines Elks Lodge #98 in Pleasant Hill. Memorials may be directed to the Johnston Public Library or LifeServe Blood Center.

Janet Elaine Eisenbarth

Janet Elaine Eisenbarth, 70, died July 6, 2022. Janet graduated from Twin Rivers High School and Clarke College in Dubuque. She taught third grade for a couple of years before working as a secretary/receptionist for a West Des Moines real estate office. She retired in 2016 from the State Department of Iowa in the Office of Elder Affairs.
Janet was preceded in death by her brother, Gary, and long-time friend, Wayne Cook. She is survived by siblings Jeanne Eisenbarth, Nancy Buttel, Tom (Jan) Eisenbarth, Susan (Dirk) Underwood, Greg (Joan) Eisenbarth, Amy (Sam) Hinderks, Marla (Perry) Buffington; and many nieces and nephews.
A prayer vigil service with rosary was held July 14 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory in Urbandale. A mass of Christian burial was Friday, July 15 at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Urbandale. Memorials may be sent to the family. Mail to: Jeanne Eisenbarth, 9001 Windsor Parkway #312, Johnston, IA 50131.

Madeline Joan Harne

Madeline Joan Harne died at Bishop Drumm in Johnston on July 9, 2022. Madeline was born in Knoxville. She graduated from East High in 1955 and married Jim Harne in 1956. Madeline had various jobs besides homemaking, with a zeal for cleaning, cooking and baking. Madeline was the first mother to follow a daughter through Mercy School of Nursing, graduating with better grades as well at 49. Madeline was both a member of Simpson United Methodist Church with husband Jim and St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Church.
Madeline was preceded in death by her husband, Jim. She is survived by her children Warren K. (Jeri) Harne, Lorae (Dave) Nicodemus and Patricia (Larry) Walker; brother; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
A visitation was held Saturday, July 16 at Iles Funeral Home - Grandview Park Chapel, followed by Catholic graveside services at Highland Memory Garden Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Pathways or Bishop Drumm. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.

Martha JoAnn Hidlebaugh Irwin

Martha JoAnn Hidlebaugh Irwin, 87, of Redfield, died Sunday, July 10, 2022, at Lakeside Village in Panora. There will be a private burial prior to the memorial service, at Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Van Meter. She will be laid to rest with her husband, Eugene. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – McCalley Chapel in Adel on Friday, July 15.
Martha was born Dec. 5, 1934, in Bagley. Their family moved to De Soto where she graduated from De Soto Consolidated School District in the spring of 1952. Following graduation, she went to work for Ohio Casualty Insurance Company as a commercial property and casualty insurance rater. After 16 years at Ohio Casualty, she moved on to Chuck Brooks Insurance Agency, later called Brooks-Lussem Insurance, where she eventually became vice president of the agency. She retired Dec. 30, 1999.
Martha had several hobbies, some of which included hunting, fishing, playing cards, gardening and nature walks. She also enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, and she was a vocal fan. First and foremost, she cherished time spent with family.
Her legacy will continue on in the hearts and minds of her daughters, Sheryl (Paul) Fountas, Pat (Dave) Griffith, Maria (Jack) Ganoe, and Kathy (Rodger) McLaughlin; 12 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. Martha is preceded in death by her husband, three brothers, and two sisters.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of the Midwest. Online condolences can be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

John R. Noe

John R. Noe, 89, died July 3, 2022. He was born in Des Moines and graduated from Adel High School in 1950. He received his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and master’s degree from Drake University. John taught vocational agriculture, industrial arts and high school science at Waukee Community Schools for more than 30 years. In 1950, he was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout and served as an assistant scoutmaster in Adel. In 1957, he married Elise (Stoops) Noe, who also taught at Waukee Community Schools.
John was a long-time member and leader at First Christian Church in Adel, a board member of the Adel Public Library, and volunteer at Living History Farms and the local food pantry.
John was preceded in death by his spouse, parents, and sister Gretchen (Noe) Williams. John is survived by his children, Lance (Debbie) Noe and Claudette (Kelvin) Sederburg, and three grandchildren. Visitation was July 10 at First Christian Church, Adel. Memorials are suggested to the Good Samaritan Food Pantry, 215 N. 11th St., P.O. Box 141, Adel, IA 50003.

Rodney Wayne Stucker

Rodney Wayne Stucker, 69, of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, previously of Adel, died on June 29, 2022. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, July 18 at 10:30 a.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home - McCalley Chapel in Adel. Family will greet friends prior to the service from 9-10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place following the service at Oakdale Cemetery in Adel.
Rod was born May 7, 1953 in Perry. He graduated from Perry High school in 1961, then continued his education and career as a paramedic for Dallas County.
Rodney lived in Dallas County most of his life and was proud of his volunteer work at the Adel Fire Department. Rod had a passion for his community and helping others. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. Later in life, when he met his wife, Liz, he learned that he had a passion to create enclosures for all of his wife’s “rehabs.”
Rod retired in 2015, living the next year in his RV while spending the winters fishing in Galveston, Texas, until he found the perfect place to park his wheels in Fairfield Bay.
He is survived by his wife, six children, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild, sister Linda and mother Juanita “Fern.”
He is preceded in death by his father, Beanie; brother, Earl; and brother-in-law, Jim.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Adel Fire Department.
Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Susan Diane Belgarde

Susan Diane Belgarde, of Adel, died July 1, 2022. Suzy was born in 1945 in Deep River. She graduated from Adel High School in 1963. Suzy worked as a bookkeeper for Straight Engineering, Brenton Bank and Raccoon Valley State Bank throughout her life.
She is survived by her sister, Pat (Ron) Gilliland; daughter, Kiff Belgarde (Kirk Brown); granddaughters, Sara Brown and Jessie (James) Orf; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Judy Doty and Scott Keller; and Kiff’s father, Gene Belgarde.
Suzy was laid to rest at a private family service on Monday, July 11. A celebration of life lunch followed at First Christian Church, Adel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

Phyllis Weil

Phyllis Weil, 88, died July 6, 2022. Phyllis was born in Williamson and graduated with the Waukee Class of 1952. She married Leo Weil in 1953. Besides raising a family, she worked locally in the grocery business and volunteered at the local food pantry, visited shut-in women, and volunteered at her church where she directed the funeral dinners for many years.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, brother and great-granddaughter. She is survived by her sons, Michael (Mary) and Pat (Janette); five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
A memorial mass was held Tuesday, July 12 at St. John’s Catholic Church, with inurnment at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Dallas Center. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Catholic Church or St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.

Dick L. Jensen

Dick L. Jensen died June 30, 2022. He was born in 1930. He graduated from Audubon Public Schools in 1948 and attended the University of Iowa’s College of Commerce and thereafter the College of Law, graduating with an LLB degree in 1954. Dick served in the U.S. Navy on active duty from 1955-1958.
Dick married Nancy Wilson in 1956 and raised two children. Dick opened a solo law practice in Audubon and most recently worked at the Des Moines law firm Dreher, Wilson and Adams, starting in 1972. In 2017, he retired from that firm, now known as Simpson, Jensen, Abels, Fischer and Bouslog.
Dick was active in the Sigma Nu Fraternity, the Masons, the Des Moines Chapter of the Royal Order of the Jesters, the Des Moines Club, Rotary Club, the Izaak Walton League, the Winterset Hunt Club and the New Pioneer Gun Club, among others.
Dick was preceded in death by his wife, daughter Sarah, and brother Don (Sallie). He is survived by his son, Charley (Nancy), two grandchildren and great granddaughter.
At Dick’s request, there will be no funeral service, but the family invites friends and relatives to the Des Moines Golf and Country Club, 1600 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines. A cocktail reception will be 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, July 24. Memorial donations may be made to Youth Homes Of Mid America (Des Moines) or any charity.

Kobi Shayne Ozimek

Kobi Shayne Ozimek, 24, died unexpectedly due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on July 1, 2022. Kobi was born in Des Moines, a loving son and a friend to all. He loved animals and was a proud dog dad to Diesel. Kobi enjoyed playing a variety of sports, was an avid gamer and enjoyed watching anime. He felt most at peace while riding his motorcycle or driving his Camaro.
He is survived by his mother, Brittny Pinegar (Frank Griffey); father, Joshua Stubbs; aunt, Katie Smuck; uncles, Sam Smuck, Ryan Pinegar, and Tony Pinegar; cousins, Kingston Williams and Oliver Smuck; as well as his grandpas, Pat Pinegar and Alan Ozimek. Kobi was preceded in death by his grandmas, Connie Fidler and Phyllis Ozimek.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, July 12 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 N.W. 60th Ave., Des Moines. Services were held on Wednesday, July 13, also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Kobi’s family. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Gary Newton

Gary Newton, 84, of West Des Moines (formerly of Greenfield), died July 9, 2022, at Crest Haven Care Center in Creston. He is survived by his three sons, Jeff, David (Deb) and Dennis (Laura); three grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister; and other relatives and friends.
Celebration of life will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 14 at the Greenfield United Methodist Church. Memorials may be directed to the Gary Newton Memorial Fund to be established by the family at a later date. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.lambfuneralhomes.com.

Jason ‘Nipper’ Ray Anderson

Jason “Nipper” Ray Anderson, 43, died unexpectedly on July 1, 2022 at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. Jason graduated from Valley High School in West Des Moines then attended DMACC and Hamilton Business College, earning a degree in IT. He most recently worked for Heartland Coop as a network engineer. Jason was a devoted member of the Iowa Mustangs Unstabled Club.
He is survived by his wife, Sherry Anderson; children, Natalie (Jared) Naja and Gunnar Anderson; one grandchild, with another on the way; parents, Jo and Tim Anderson; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and his beloved car club friends of the Central Iowa Taco Club.
A visitation was held Saturday, July 9 at Hamilton’s, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines. Memorials may be directed to the family and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Emma Jean Blank

Emma Jean Blank, 89, of West Des Moines, died July 1, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. Emma was born in Garnavillo. She graduated in 1950 from McGregor Public School. She earned a teaching certificate from Upper Iowa University in 1952, then completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Drake University. Emma Jean married Sylvester Gene Blank in 1953. They moved to Iowa City in 1956, where she worked for the University of Iowa at the Hospital School for Severely Handicapped Children and had their first child. They later moved to Des Moines, where Emma taught for 28 years, with 23 of those years at Cattell Elementary School. She retired in 1998.
Emma volunteered with the Des Moines Civic Ballet. She was a member and past president of Alpha Delta Kappa honorary society for women educators, enjoyed monthly meetings with former Cattell teachers, CPA Auxiliary group and Grace United Methodist Women.
Emma was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her husband; children Jonell (Mark Clardy), Judy Blank (Tom Sawyer) and Neil D. Blank (Margaret); four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Bud and Daniel; and many nephews and nieces. Memorial services are pending.

Santiago Jose Reyes-Savala

Santiago Jose Reyes-Savala gained his angel wings on July 2, 2022, at Methodist Hospital. Santiago was born with Trisomy 18 to Irma Savala and Jose Reyes on Jan. 17, 2022, in Des Moines. Santiago loved snuggles, bath time with his cute robe after, and being told he was the cutest baby. He loved Winnie the Pooh and all his nurses, and he made all the ladies fall in love with him. He was a very happy baby and was loved by everyone. Even though his life was short, it was amazing. He taught so many people what love really is.
He is survived by his parents; maternal grandparents, Estela and Gabriel Savala; paternal grandparents, Elsy Reyes and Roosobeth Torres-Reyes; uncles, Javier Savala and Julio Reyes; aunt, Rosa Reyes; and friends, Katie Buck, Shaylene Houston and Mandy Lopez.
Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 16 at Hamilton’s, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Willard ‘Bill’ Classen

Willard “Bill” Classen died July 3, 2022 at Edgewater Retirement Community in West Des Moines. He was born in Glenvil, Nebraska. Bill attended the University of Nebraska Agricultural College and graduated in 1950. He enlisted in the Army and spent most of his three years in Germany. In January 1954, he returned to Hastings, Nebraska, where he met Coryene “Corky” Herbst. They were married in August 1954. Bill joined the Rain and Hail Insurance Bureau in Omaha, Nebraska, retiring 36 years later as president of the company headquartered in West Des Moines. He was inducted into the Iowa Insurance Hall Of Fame in 2008. Bill was also a Mason and 50-year member of Za-Ga Zig Shrine.
He is survived by his wife, Corky, of 67 years; children Gregg (Sharon), Mark (Deb), and Karen (Randy) Chamberlain; eight grandchildren; and 24 nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were four brothers and two sisters.
A celebration of life will be 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 28 at the Des Moines Golf & Country Club. Condolences can be shared at www.ilescares.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in memory of Bill to: Tunnel To Towers, P.O. Box 70719, Philadelphia, PA 19176; Edgewater Good Samaritan, 9225 Cascade Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266; or the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 71331, Clive, IA 50325.

Dorene Theisen Leo

Dorene Theisen Leo of West Des Moines, 94, died July 6, 2022. Dorene was born in New Vienna and raised by her paternal grandparents. She graduated from St. Boniface High School in New Vienna in 1946.
In 1947, she married Harold “Harry” C. Theisen of Monona. They were married for 25 years and had five children. In 1959, the family relocated to Des Moines. Harry unexpectedly died in 1974. Dorene married Guido Leo in 1982. Dorene and Guido made their home on the southside of Des Moines where they were devout members of St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish. Dancing at the Val Air Ballroom over the years was a favorite pastime of theirs. Dorene was an active member of the Society of Italian Americans Club Women’s Auxiliary and the Altar and Rosary Society.
Dorene is survived by her children, Linda (Tom) Armitage, Jim (Marsha), Debbie Theisen-Chenchar (Mike), Gina Bohler and Jeff Theisen; 15 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law; and many extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by granddaughter Rachel Theisen Roberts; three brothers; and several siblings-in-law.
A private mass of a Christian burial was held at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church in Des Moines for family. Brooks Funeral Care coordinated arrangements. Memorial suggestions in memory of Dorene are to Saint Anthony’s Altar and Rosary Society or The Italian Americans Club Women’s Auxiliary.