Elsie Viola Meyer, 93, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away at the Edgewood Convalescent Home on Wednesday, April 19, 2017.  She was born on October 22, 1923, in Lansing the daughter of George and Minnie (Uren) Schellhammer.  Elsie was raised in the area and attended rural school.

Elsie was united in marriage to Leslie Carl Meyer on April 24, 1942, in Lansing.  Ten sons were blessed to this union.  Together they resided in Lansing until 1954 when they moved to Manchester.  Elsie was employed at Maxwell Grocery and Restaurant.  She also did daycare in her home.

Elsie enjoyed needle work, quilting at the church, and baking.  She has resided at the Edgewood Convalescent Home for the last five years.

Survivors include six sons, Gerald (Patricia) Meyer, Curt (Colleen) Meyer,  Dennis (Krista) Meyer, all of Manchester, Rodney (Cheryl) Meyer of Harcourt, Dale (Michelle) Meyer of Mt Horeb, Wisconsin, and Bruce Meyer of Manchester; 35 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Lila Weipert of McGregor.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leslie on November 17, 1995; three sons, David in infancy, Les, Lyle, and Vernon Meyer; and four siblings, Glenn, Morris, and Ernest Schellhammer, and Marian Reppe.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-muller.com.

Funeral Services:   10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at First Lutheran Church, Manchester, Iowa.  Officiating:  Rev. Rodney Meyer.

Visitation:    4:00 – 7:00 p.m., on Friday, April 21, 2017, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester, Iowa. Friends may also call one hour before the service at the church on Saturday

Interment:  Oakland Cemetery  –  Manchester, Iowa

Amber Herman age 82,  of Tipton formerly of Anamosa and Manchester, died Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Cedar Manor Nursing Home, in Tipton following an extended illness

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 2 until 4 Sunday afternoon, April 23, 2017 at the Goettsch Funeral Home, Anamosa.    Thoughts, memories and condolences may be left at www.goettschonline.com.

Surviving are 5 children, James (Cindy) Oxford Junction, Ronald, Hopkinton, Sharon (Stuart) Clark, Tipton, Donald (Lucia) Anamosa, Sheryl (Duane) McDonald, Anamosa , 13 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and her sister, Lelis (Sheldon) Knuth, Eureka Springs, AR.   She was preceded in death by her parents, a son David and grandson David V. and 2 brothers.

Alvin A. “Bud” Lahr, 86, of Manchester, Iowa, died Friday, April 21, 2017.  Visitation: 2:00 – 6:00 p.m., Sunday, April 23, 2017, at St. John Catholic Church, Delhi, Iowa, with a 2:00 p.m. Scripture Service and Knights of Columbus Rosary at 6:00 p.m.  Funeral Mass:  10:30 a.m., Monday, April 24, 2017, St. John Catholic Church, Delhi. Burial: St. John’s Catholic Cemetery, Delhi.  Arrangements by Clifton – Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Earlville, Iowa.

Alvin A. Lahr was born December 19, 1930, in Worthington, Iowa, the son of Nick and Mary (Krogman) Lahr.  Bud liked golf, bowling, mowing lawn and moving snow. He looked forward to homecoming parties. Bud enjoyed coffee with the group, spending time with family, and helping on the farm.

Bud is survived by his siblings, Clarence Lahr of Dyersville and Mary Jane Felton of Cascade; special nephew and niece, Anthony Russ and Mary Ann Kern; many nephews and nieces; and extended family, Ruth, Nancy and Jane.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Veronica (Henry) Russ, Margaret (Tom) Oehler, Loretta Lahr, Rose (Wallace) Nehl, Joe (Isabelle) Lahr, Al (Germaine) Lahr, Nick (Mary Jane) Lahr, John Lahr, Theresa (Gerald) Goedken; and brother and sister-in-law, Joe Felton and Adella Lahr.

Robert J. Devaney, 87, of Monticello, IA, died Friday, April 21, 2017, at Unity Point St. Luke’s Hospice in Cedar Rapids after a brief illness.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday, April 24, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello where a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 6 pm.  Visitation will continue after 10:00 a.m. Tuesday morning at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Bob was born July 21, 1929, the son of Dorrance and Rita (May) Devaney.  Bob was united in marriage to Rosemary Decker on February 13, 1954, at St. Patrick’s Church in Garryowen.   He worked at the Post Office for five years and then began working at the Monticello State Bank where his career spanned 35 years.  Through the years he endeared many friends and clients with his contagious smile and witty sense of humor.

Bob enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, boating, and being outdoors working on his yard and rose garden.  He was a railroad buff and an avid sports fan, especially rooting for the Cubs, Bears and Hawkeyes.

Survivors include 7 children: Beth (Darnell) Porter and Patrick Devaney (Kathy Adams), both of Monticello, Karen (Terry) Solomon of Manchester, Tom (Barb) Devaney of Anamosa, Mike (Doris) Devaney and Diane (Matt) Lund, both of Cedar Rapids, and Jeff (Holly) Devaney of Marion;  22 grandchildren: Julie (Matt) Lux of Cascade, Chris (Alyssa Rindy) Porter of Monticello, Scott Porter of Iowa City, Sage (Andy) Miller of Altoona, Dustin Wilson and Michaela Devaney, both of Monticello, Amanda and Ryan Solomon, both of Manchester, Ben (Ashley) Devaney of Davenport, Jordan Devaney of Urbandale, Holly and Mindy Salzbrenner of Ames, Justin and Kennedy Siefker of Anamosa, Carly, Jenna and Paige Jennings, all of Austin, TX, Kassidy Devaney and Vanessa Lund, both of Cedar Rapids, Colin and Haley Gorgen and Tara Devaney, all of Marion; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters-in-law: Jean McClain and Sally (Jim) Hoerner, all of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rosemary in 2012, a daughter, Mary Paula and a son, John in 2015, his brother Richard (Rita) Devaney.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com

Mildred Geraldean Ingles ,92, of Manchester, Iowa, formerly of Greeley, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2017, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester,  She was born on July 5, 1924, in  Graham, Iowa, the daughter of Howard and Elga (Welch) Tindell.  Mildred was raised in the area, and attended Clayton County rural school.

On March 2, 1946, Mildred was united in marriage to Donald “Butch” Ingles in Greeley.  Nine children were born to this union.   Butch died in June 1987.

Mildred was a homemaker.  She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed kids and playing cards.

Survivors include three sons, Jerry (Betty) Ingles, Gary (Penny) Ingles, and Richard (Shari) Ingles all of Greeley;  and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald “Butch”; four sons, Kerry, Terry, Barry, and Larry, plus two infants; two sisters, Laura Sauerby and Beulah Brady; and a brother-in-law, Clair Brady.

Gary Toenjes age 71, died Sunday, April 23, 2017 at the Shady Rest Care Center, Cascade following a battle with brain cancer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held  11:00 Wednesday morning, April 26, 2017  at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Monticello with interment in the Antioch Cemetery, Anamosa.   Friends may call from 4 until 8 Tuesday at the Goettsch Funeral Home, Anamosa.   A parish Vigil Service will start the visitation at 4:00.  There will be a visitation in the Gathering Room at Sacred Heart Church starting at 10:00 prior to the service.  Rev. Fr. Paul Baldwin will officiate at the services.  Thoughts, Memories and Condolences may be left at www.goettschonline.com.

Surviving his wife Shirley, 3 sons Lance (Michelle), Rodney (Beth) and Brent,  5 Grandchildren, Colby, Makenzie, Aubrey, Kaleb and Mya,  a brother, Randy (Debbie) Toenjes, all of  Anamosa, his sister, Janice (Doug) Secrist, Viola,  brothers and sisters in law Elizabeth Heims, of Anamosa, Leo (Janet) Cook and Stanley (Roberta) Cook, Rose Cook, and his aunt Ruby Toenjes, all of Monticello and many nieces and nephews.

Gary Toenjes was born October 27, 1945 at Anamosa, Iowa.  He was the son of Leslie and Pauline Anderson, Toenjes.  Gary graduated from the Anamosa Community Schools in 1964.   He then started custom combining to get his start in farming.  Gary married Shirley Cook on January 25, 1969 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Anamosa.  The couple farmed in the Anamosa area, moving to their current farm in 1974.  Gary raised registered Duroc Boars for many years.

Gary was a Jackson Township Trustee, a member of the Iowa and Jones County Pork Producers, the Jones County Fair Board, the Rural Fire Board, and the Duroc Association.  He was also a Cornelius Seed Corn Salesman in his spare time.   Gary had been a 4H-leader for the Cass Center Hustlers and enjoyed bowling in the Monticello Bowling League. He especially enjoyed going to all of his grandchildren’s activities and playing cards with family and friends.

LaVonne Mae Cusher, 82, of Independence, Iowa died Monday, April 24, 2017, at the Unity Point-Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.

LaVonne was born on November 23, 1934, in Norman County, Minnesota, the daughter of Arthur L. and Myrtle (Albertson) Farmer. She attended Waterloo Community Schools and the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa. On May 21, 1951, she married Ivan J. Cusher in Waterloo, Iowa. She was employed with Black Hawk Publishing, Fereday Heating and Air Conditioning, H & H Heating and Air Conditioning in Waterloo prior to her retirement in 1999. Mrs. Cusher moved to Independence in 1998.

She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed writing poetry, puzzles, fishing, playing pool, listening to Mettalica, and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and the Minnesota Vikings. She was often time heard of say she would live to be 180 years old.

LaVonne is survived by a daughter Brenda (Damon) Music, and a son; Steve (Carrie) Cusher, Independence, IA. Nine grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren, and a sister; Julie Bean, Waterloo, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son; James Arthur Cusher, and two sisters; Jeannine Rose, and Marilyn Mangin.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 AM Friday, at the Living Water Church, Independence, IA, with Rev. John Sheda officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 8 PM Thursday at the Reiff Funeral Home & Crematory, Independence, IA.

Sharon F. Rouse, 72 years old, of Independence, Iowa, died on Monday, April 24, 2017, at ABCM Rehab. Center of Independence – West Campus in Independence, Iowa.  She was born on February 20, 1945, in Riceville, Iowa, the daughter of Wayne Luther and Norma Irene (Moore) Rouse.  In 1963, she graduated from high school in Jesup, Iowa.  Ms. Rouse was a nanny for several families and a baker of decorated cakes and cookies.  She was well known for her wedding cakes.  She enjoyed time spent crafting with her mother and she was an active participant in the Buchanan County Relay for Life.

Ms. Rouse is survived by 2 brothers, Clarence (Jean) Rouse of Independence, Iowa, and Glen Rouse of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and 1 brother, Harry Rouse.

On Sunday, May 7, 2017, a Celebration of Life will begin at 1 p.m. at the 1^st Presbyterian Church in Independence.  A time for visitation with the family will continue until 4 p.m.  Burial will be at a later date.  A Memorial Fund for the Buchanan County Relay for Life and Cedar Valley Hospice has been established.  On line condolences may be left at www.White-MtHope.com.  White Funeral Home of Independence is in charge of arrangements.

Our Mother, Buirl Constance (Gill) Thomsen, born on Sept. 15, 1926 to Thelma and Christopher Gill in a small farm house near Buckhorn, Iowa, died April 12, 2017 at the age of 90 at The Good Neighbor Home in Manchester, Iowa.  A “Celebration of Life” will be held at the First Lutheran Church in Manchester, Iowa at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, 2017.

As a teen, Mom stayed with a neighbor, cleaned house and babysat during her high school years.  Although she did not finish school, she got her GED at around the age of 54.  She met and married our dad, Marvin L. Thomsen, in Dec of 1944.  Mom was a housewife and mother on the farm for over 30 yrs.  She raised 5 children, Peggy, Norma, Marvin Jr., Marc and Vicky.  She spent many of her days sending us children off to school, Sunday school, 4-H, bible class, confirmation, swimming lessons, school activities, all the while preoccupied with baking, canning, sewing and serving coffee and dessert to anyone who came to visit.  Her home was a constant bustle of activity.

Later in life she loved playing cards or games like, Upwards, Canasta, and Mexican Train while continuing to run errands for our Dad. She was an active 4-H Leader and Camp Counselor, Judge at the local fair, and along with Dad, very active as a member of the Farm Bureau.  She had rheumatoid arthritis and asthma but never let that interfere with her life. Her energy level never failed to amaze her children.  She built a wooden fence around the yard when she was tired of the pigs getting into her huge garden and her beautiful flower beds.

After retirement from the farm and moving to town, she volunteered at Camp Courageous, enjoyed going to many garage sales and sewed dozens of quilts.  After Dad passed away mom bought herself a computer and started researching her family genealogy.  She traced our roots back as far as the Salem Witch hangings.  She spent hours and hours at her personal computer, one day, even forgetting to eat.  She was a proud member of the Lutheran Church and volunteered for preparation of services, was a greeter, clean up, helped with the bulletins and many other activities there.

Survivors include, Peggy Wilson (Larry) of Wrangle, Alaska, Norma Michels (Richard) of Sequim, Washington, Marc Thomsen (Pat) and Vicky Murphy, all of Port Angeles, Washington. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren.

Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; her son, Marvin Jr.; her parents; her brother, Jimmie; her sister, Janette; a son-in-law, Wayne; and her grandson, Chad.

Please share a memory of Buirl at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Waterloo –  Betty L. Crowell, 92 years old, of Waterloo, Iowa, formerly of Independence, Iowa, died on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at Friendship Village in Waterloo.  She was born on December 25, 1924, in Independence, Iowa, the daughter of Cecil L. and Mayme L. (McMichael) Bayer.  She graduated from high school in Independence with the Class of 1943.  On January 5, 1947, she and Glenn “Pete” Wallace Crowell were married at the 1^st Presbyterian Church in Independence.  They farmed the Crowell farm near Littleton until moving to Independence in 1955.  Mr. Crowell preceded her in death in 2008.  Mrs. Crowell worked in the business office at the Mental Health Institute in Independence for many years.  She retired in 1984.  Mrs. Crowell was a member of the 1^st Presbyterian Church in Independence and she was formerly a member of Buffalo Creek Golf Club in Winthrop and the Bowling Leagues of Independence.  She enjoyed time spent with her friends on bus trips and going out to eat.  She also enjoyed chocolate.

Mrs. Crowell is survived by 1 nephew, Mike Cameron of St. Petersburg, Florida, 1 sister-in-law, Dorothy Crowell of Independence, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and 1 sister, Mary Retta Cameron.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 1, 2017, at the 1^st Presbyterian Church in Independence with Rev. John Hougen officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence.  Friends may call for visitation for an hour before services at the church.  A Memorial Fund has been established.  On line condolences may be left at www.White-MtHope.com.  White Funeral Home of Independence is in charge of arrangements

Kathleen Elizabeth Hogan, 81, of Delhi, Iowa, passed away on April 28, 2017, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester.  She was born on June 27, 1935, in Scotch Grove, the daughter of Leo and Marie (Jaeger) Gudenkauf.  Kathleen was a graduate of St. John Catholic High School in Ryan.

On February 7, 1955, Kathleen was united in marriage to Walter Lux.  In January 1956 Walter and their son Larry were killed in a car accident.

Kathleen was united in marriage to Richard Hogan on November 17, 1962, at St Patrick Catholic Church in Ryan.  Thirteen children were born to this union.  Kathleen worked as a nurse’s aide at the Delaware County Memorial Hospital.  She also worked as a CNA for many years for the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester.

Kathleen loved sewing and quilting.  She liked to cook and was a wonderful baker.  Kathleen enjoyed gardening and planting flowers.  She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors left to cherish her memory are her husband of 54 years, Richard Hogan of Delhi; twelve children, Diane (Dave) Heims of Toddville, Tina (Allen) Mead of Delhi, Dan (Cindy) Hogan of Manchester, Donald (Karla) Hogan of Central City, Dennis (Tina) Hogan of Coggon, Julie Heims of Manchester, Duane (Christy) Hogan of Delhi, Joan (Tony) Funke of Manchester, Daryl ( DeAnna) Hogan of Delhi, Dorrance (Jayne) Hogan of Delhi, Dean (Kendy) Hogan of Manchester, and Doug (Danica) Hogan of Greeley; 42 grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; six siblings, Vernon (Joan) Gudenkauf of Monti, Lois (Omer) Fortman of Manchester, Janet (Bob) Pottebaum of Manchester, Jeanette Steffen of Peosta, Virginia (Phil) Kelchen of Monticello, and Dick (Sharon) Gudenkauf of Dyersville; and many nieces and nephews.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Walter Lux; two sons, Larry Lux and Dale Hogan; her son-in-law, Mark Heims; and one sister, Mary Hoeger.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial:  10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 1, 2017, at St. John Catholic Church in Delhi, with Celebrant: Rev. John Kremer.

Visitation:  2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 30, 2017, at St. John Catholic Church in Delhi with a 2:00 p.m. Scripture Service. Also visitation one hour before the service at the church on Monday.

Interment:  St. John Cemetery  –  Delhi, Iowa

Ruth F. Schulte, 88, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2017, at the Regional Medical Center in Manchester.  Ruth was born on May 16, 1928, near Aplington, the daughter of Diedrich and Tena (Klingenborg) Wessels.  She attended Aplington Consolidated Schools and graduated in 1946.  Ruth then attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, where she received her teaching certificate.  Ruth taught at Earlville and St. Mary Catholic School.  She later volunteered at St. Mary School.

On June 17, 1950, Ruth was united in marriage to Raymond Paul Schulte, by Father Hovermann, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester.  The couple bought their first farm in 1955, where their six children were born and raised. Together they farmed in Delaware County until 1977 when they moved to their housing development in Manchester, the Northtowne Estates.  Ray passed away on December 1, 2002.

Ruth was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the Assumption Choir, a former member of Our Lady of Fatima Study Club, and St. Mary Altar and Rosary Society.  Ruth was also a member of the Swing Sisters Choir and was a 4-H leader of the Country Maids.

Ruth enjoyed music, especially Gospel and Country Western, traveling in their motorhome, and the winters they spent in their Florida home.  She and Ray especially loved having their families come down to visit them.  Her grandchildren were very special to her.  Ruth enjoyed gardening, baking, and caring for her family.

Survivors left to cherish her memory include two sons, Douglas (Delana) Schulte and Daniel (Ann) Schulte all of Manchester; two daughters, Debra (David) Wendt of Delhi, and Darla (Bill) Rave of Manchester; one daughter-in-law, Sue Schulte of Manchester; 18 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lois Wessels of Aplington; sister-in-law, Lois Schulte of Edgewood; brother and sister-in-law, Ed and MaryAnn Schulte of Manchester; and many nieces and nephews.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Raymond Schulte; one daughter, DeAnn Schulte; one son, David Schulte; twin grandsons James and John Schulte; and one brother, Ralph Wessels.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial:  11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester with Rev. Joseph Schneider officiating.

Visitation:  2:00 to 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 2, 2017, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester.  Friends may also call one hour prior to Mass at the church on Wednesday.

Interment: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery  –  Manchester, Iowa

Robert D. Halverson, 78, of Elkader, passed away Saturday, April 29, 2017, at the Elkader Care Center.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 on Tuesday, May 2, 2017, at Peace United Church of Christ in Elkader.

Funeral Service:  10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at Peace United Church of Christ in Elkader.

Interment: East Side Cemetery in Elkader

Leonard Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left with www.leonardfuneralhomes.com

Anna Marie Schmitt, 98, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of Rickardsville, Iowa passed away Friday, April 28, 2017, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 9 – 11:30 am Thursday, May 4, 2017, at the Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 Noon Thursday, May 4, 2017, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rickardsville, with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Noah Diehm will officiate and Rev. John Chrzan will be the homilist and concelebrant.

Anna Marie Arlen was born in Farley, Iowa, on September 27, 1918, daughter of John and Anna Julia (Kofmehl) Arlen.  She married Raymond J. Schmitt on June 22, 1938, at Annunciation Church in Lattnerville, Iowa.  Marie and Raymond lived in Graf until 1943, when they purchased a farm in Rickardsville, Iowa, which became their home where they raised seven children.  Raymond passed away on June 15, 1992.  Anna Marie continued living on the farm until December 2014.

Marie, as friends and family knew her, lovingly cared for her husband, family, friends, farm, and garden. She could be spotted wearing the big straw hat while spending much of the warm weather tending to her garden and other fruit bushes and trees.  She spent countless hours raising poultry for the family use and to sell at the Dubuque Farmer’s Market, and delivering to individual homes.

Marie milked the farm’s dairy cows, fed animals or helped with field work, especially during harvest season. After spending many hours helping with the outside chores, she would have the table laden with special homemade dishes for dinner and supper.  Family and friends raved about her baked goods, especially her caramel rolls and fruit pies, as well as her fried chicken, which was a reunion’s favorite dish.  She spent many hours in the kitchen of her choice, often the small kitchen next to the milk house, before family reunions and silo filling crews.  Marie always had food and room for one or more at a meal, in her home, and in her heart.

In her later years, Marie volunteered many years at Albrecht Acres.  She worked in the kitchen and added her special touches for the campers.  She enjoyed relaxing with daytime soaps between working in her garden, mowing the lawn, and working around the farm. The multi colored buildings and yellow smiley face on the garage door gave her a sense of pride in her farm.  Attending her children’s and grandchildren’s activities gave her much joy.  She enjoyed traveling by car, but especially taking plane trips.  She loved taking photographs and often had several cameras at her disposal to capture the moment.

Her family and faith were very important to her.

Survivors include her children: Donald R. Schmitt of Holy Cross, Sr. Donna Schmitt, OSF, of Grayslake, IL, Diana Schmitt of Palmetto, FL, Ann (Mike) Bergen of Cooper City, FL, Dr. Mary Ann (Kent) Sander of Platteville, WI, Michael (Michele) Schmitt of Rickardsville,

9 grandchildren: Charles, Lisa, Paul and Diana Bergen, Christopher (Morgan), Nicholas, Ryan, Zachary (fiancé Blair) and Alex Schmitt, 2 great grandchildren: Beau and Rae Schmitt; in-laws: Jean Schmitt of Durango, Clem Schmitt of Graff, and Leta Wagner of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond, one son, Ronald Schmitt, her siblings: Charles Arlen, Clarence Arlen, Rita Breitbach and Eda Schultz.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Albrecht Acres or Stonehill Care Center in Marie’s name.

The family is deeply grateful to Stonehill Care Center for the care and concern given to Marie over the past two years, to hospice for its support, to Dr. Kirkendall and nurse Kate, and all the family and friends who spent time with Marie over the last few years.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Phyllis M. Helmrichs, 87, of Manchester, Iowa, died Sunday, April 30, 2017.  Visitation: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 4, 2017, at Bohnenkamp – Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Manchester. Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 5, 2017, First Lutheran Church, Manchester, with Pastor Tony Ede officiating. Burial: Oakland Cemetery, Manchester.

Phyllis Mae Helmrichs was born January 28, 1930, in Delaware County, Iowa, the daughter of Lyle and Helen (Tripp) Annis. She graduated from Manchester High School. On January 31, 1948, Phyllis was united in marriage to Darwin J. Helmrichs in Manchester.  The couple farmed for many years northeast of Manchester by Oneida. Following her husband’s death, Phyllis eventually moved to a home on E. Butler Street in Manchester. After breaking her hip, she moved to the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester in March, 2013.

Phyllis enjoyed gardening, embroidery work, camping, going to dances, being in parades with her husband with the numerous different pony carts they had made and decorated, crossword puzzle books, Wheel of Fortune, and most of all, spending time with children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Carolyn (Pat) Maloney of Manchester, and Lori (Curtis) Hanson of Manchester; five grandchildren, Colleen (Randy) Goedken of Lamont, Kevin (Sheena) Maloney of Manchester, Seth Hanson of Cedar Rapids, and Madison and Nathan Hanson of Manchester; four great-grandchildren, Jaxon Goedken of Ames, Audry Goedken of Lamont, and Charles and Anna Maloney of Manchester.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Darwin; and a daughter, Beverly, in infancy.

Please share a memory of Phyllis at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Gerald E. Badger, 87, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2017. In agreement with Gerald’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial service for the family will be held at a later date.  Arrangements with Bohnenkamp – Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Manchester.

Gerald was born December 31, 1929, in Rollo, Missouri, the son of Thomas and Ruth (Green) Badger.  He received his Masters in Education, and Bachelor of Science in History and Religion from the University of Iowa.  Gerald taught for many years in both Iowa and Illinois; teaching in Freeport, Illinois, at the Junior High from 1966 until his retirement.

He married his first wife, Margaret Jean Hines in 1950. He married Mary Houlahan on October 6, 1989.  Gerald loved gardening and reading. He loved his dog, Buddy, who was his constant companion.  He was his wife Mary’s sole protector and guardian, telling her he loved her more than life itself.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Houlahan-Badger; children, John (Sue) Badger, Debra (John) Hartman, Bryon Badger, and Joseph (Laura) Badger; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Bryant Badger.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his son, Paul Badger; and brothers, Thomas Badger and Charles Badger.

Please share a memory of Gerald at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Independence –  Robert R. Hummel, 81 years old, of Independence, Iowa, died on Sunday, April 30, 2017, at ABCM Rehab. of Independence – West Campus, in Independence.  He was born at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein, Iowa, on August 1, 1935, the son of Roy and Leona Matilda (Meihe) Hummel.  He graduated from high school in Independence with the Class of 1952.  After graduation, he worked for Hoffman Brothers Construction in Independence.  During the Korean Conflict, Mt. Hummel served in the U.S. Army (June 1954 to June 1976).  On June 16, 1957, he and the former Gloria Jean Harland were married at the Baptist Church in Aurora, Iowa.  At the time of his retirement in 2000, Mr. Hummel was the Emergency Management Commissioner for Buchanan County.  Before that, he farmed in Buchanan County and owned and operated several businesses in Independence.  He was the Executive Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Buchanan County Zoning and the Sanitation Administrator.  He served as the president for the Independence Food Pantry, and volunteered with Operation Threshold.  After retiring, he started working at the Hazardous Waste house at the Independence land fill “just for something to do.”

Mr. Hummel was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Independence and he was a member of the Independence Fire Department and the Quasqueton Fire Department for 25 years.  He was a life member of the Bechter-Boies VFW Post #2440 (where he served as Post Commander, VFW District Commander, and VFW State Inspector) and a member of the Sheehan-Tidball American Legion Post #30.

Mr. Hummel is survived by his wife of 59 years, Gloria, 2 daughters, Linda Hummel of Independence, Iowa, and Karen (Shawn) Mahoney of Madrid, Iowa, 1 son, Steve (Cindy) Hummel of Independence, 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers-in-law, Tim McInteer, Duke Harland, and Bob Harland, and 1 sister-in-law, Dixie Harland.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at the First Presbyterian Church in Independence with Rev. John Hougen officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence.  Friends may call for visitation from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2^nd, at the White Funeral Home in Independence where a Military Services begins at 7 p.m.  On line condolences may be left at www.White-MtHope.com.

Boneita June Lindsay, 95, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 1, 2017, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester. She was born on June 10, 1921, in Manchester, the daughter of Glen and Nancy Blanch (Worth) Danford. Bonnie attended a local school through tenth grade, after which she clerked in a grocery store.

On March 8, 1946, she was united in marriage to Max J Lindsay in Winthrop. Two daughters were born to this union. The couple farmed near Masonville until retiring and moving to Manchester in 1984.

Bonnie was a member of the United Methodist Church in Manchester. She enjoyed playing cards and doing crosswords.

Survivors include her two daughters, Gail (Dale) Kintzle of Manchester and June (David) Koopmans of Ankeny; seven grandchildren; two step grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Max, on June 19, 1999; two brothers, Howard Danford and Duane Danford; three sisters, Ruth Washburn, Doris Keppler, and Charlotte Nolan; and a son-in-law, John Cashen.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Funeral Service:  10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 4, 2017, at the United Methodist Church, Manchester, Iowa, with Rev. Phil Rogers officiating.

Visitation:  3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home. Friends may also call one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Thursday.

Interment:  Oakland Cemetery – Manchester, Iowa

Music:  Lynne Rasmussen

Casket Bearers:  (Grandsons) Sean Cashen     Tim Cashen    Jeff Cashen    Eric Cashen     Luke Koopmans     Hal Plautz

Honorary Bearers:  Lindsay Plautz     Sara Koopmans

Lois Jean (Kilpatrick) Schulte, 87, of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home in Edgewood.  She was born on September 2, 1929, in Belmont, Wisconsin, the daughter of Frank and Selma (Riechers) Kilpatrick.  Lois was raised and educated in Belmont, played the French Horn, was a drum majorette, acted in stage productions, and graduated from Belmont High School in 1947.  Having gained experience in a part time high school job with the Belmont Success Newspaper, after graduation, Lois moved to Manchester to work at the Manchester Press as a linotype operator, earning $29 per week.

Having met at a dance at the Empire Ballroom in Manchester, on February 14, 1950, Lois was united in marriage to Marvin Schulte at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester by Reverend Vincent Hovermann.  Three children were born to this union.  In 1950, the couple began farming together first near Manchester and then near Monti.  The family moved to a farm north of Edgewood in 1957 and continued farming.  Lois worked on the farm with Marvin, involving herself in egg production through a caged-hen operation, and she especially loved feeding the baby calves. She also worked part-time for the Dyersville Commercial newspaper and Model Print in Manchester. After moving to Edgewood in 1982, Lois worked in the dietary department at the Edgewood Convalescent Home.

Lois was a longtime member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Garber and then St. Mark Catholic Church in Edgewood, and enjoyed singing in the choirs.  She liked refinishing old woodwork and furniture, bringing new life to the oak woodwork in their farmhouse.  Lois enjoyed sewing, floral and vegetable gardening, the arts, theater, music, and traveling. She was also a Clayton County 4-H leader for the Garber Greenleaflets.  Lois had a strong interest in history.  Lois and Marvin loved ballroom and square dancing, and their card club friends. She especially loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors include her three children, Gregory Frank (Debra) Schulte of Edgewood, Mary Denise (Roger) Poort of Malvern, and Barbara Jean (Edmund) Ruff of Farmersburg; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one sister, Ruth (LaVerne) Rawson of Platteville, Wisconsin; a special sister-like niece, Judy (Larry) Amenda of Belmont, Wisconsin; brother-in-law, Edward (Mary Ann) Schulte of Manchester; and many other special nieces and nephews.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Marvin Schulte in 2003; one brother, Russell (Evelyn) Kilpatrick; and three sisters, Grace (George) Waggett, Mary (Herbert) Selbach, and Carol (Orville) Huggins.

Several memorials have been suggested by the family: St. Mark Catholic Church addition and roof project, Malvern Community Building Renovation, or the Marvin and Lois Schulte Ag Scholarship.

Lois’s family extends a special thank you to the Regional Medical Center Hospice of Comfort and to the staff at Lincolnwood Assisted Living and Edgewood Convalescent Home for their care and compassion over the past four and three fourths years.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 a.m., on Monday, May 8, 2017, at St. Mark Catholic Church in Edgewood, Iowa, with Reverend John Haugen officiating.

Visitation:  4:00 to 7:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 7, 2017, at St. Mark Catholic Church in Edgewood, where there will be a 3:00 p.m. Rosary and Scripture Service.  Friends may also call one hour prior to Mass at the church on Monday.

Interment:  St. Mark Catholic Cemetery  –  Edgewood, Iowa