Kalkas, Charles Irwin "Toby" - Charles Irwin (Toby) Kalkas, son of Fred and Hulda (McIntosh) Kalkas, was born on September 20, 1931 in Shenandoah, Iowa. He passed away, surrounded by his family at his side, at his home north of Shenandoah early Friday morning, July 20, 2012 following a courageous bout with cancer.

Toby's early years were spent in the communities of Imogene, Arkansas and Shenandoah. On November 10, 1990 he was united in marriage to Valerie Kay Ryan in Shenandoah. Toby was well known for being the owner and operator of his own salvage yard.

Some of his hobbies included fishing, camping, dancing and traveling on his motorcycle. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Hazel; his parents; son Duane; grandson Christopher, great-grandson Cody; siblings Winchell, Jim, J.R., Sis, Jenny, Bill, Mary Ellen, Willard and Floyd.

Those left to cherish is memory include his wife Kay of Shenandoah; nine children, Terry and wife Darlene of Perry, AR, Karen and husband David of Perry, IA, Joan and husband Carroll of Stanton, IA, Judy and husband Lonnie of Oakland, IA, Becky and husband Robert of Nashville, TN, Willie and wife Needie of Nebraska City, NE, Patty and husband Les of Shenandoah, IA, David and wife Heather of Shenandoah, IA and Donnie and wife Julie of Fairfield, IA; 25 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Funeral services for Harvey Karg, age 87, of Villisca, Iowa formerly of Clarinda/New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Friday, October 12, 2012 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa, will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with James Petersen officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 5-7 p.m., Monday, October 15, 2012 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa.

Harvey Chappel Karg, son of Robert J. Karg and Blanche Belle (Chappell) Karg was born July 8, 1925 in Pleasant Hill, Missouri. He was from a large family with five brothers and four sisters. The family lived in Missouri and South Dakota before moving to the New Market/Gravity area in the early 1930's. He attended Frog Valley School and New Market High School. Harvey served in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed at Lete and Mindino Phillipians and Iwo Jima Japan.

Harvey returned to Clarinda following his discharge and managed the DX Gas Station. On October 22, 1947, he was united in marriage to Geneva Wright at Lincoln, Nebraska. They were blessed with two children, Richard and Barbara Jean. In 1951, they rented a farm in the Bedford area and returned to Clarinda in 1969. Harvey worked at Wilson's Meat Packing Plant as a meat process until his retirement in 1987.

Harvey was a member of the Methodist Church, Bedford, Iowa. He was also a member of the V.F. W. Harvey enjoyed gardening and had a green thumb when it came to his flowers. He also enjoyed woodworking and traveling; especially the trips that he and Geneva and their family had. His family was his passion and his greatest joy was to be with them.

Preceding Harvey in death were his parents; wife, Geneva (3/24/2008); brothers, Alvin, Homer, Clifford Karg; sisters, Lolabelle Hughes, Juanita Weaver and Thelma Snow.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Richard Karg and wife Sandra of Clarinda, Iowa; daughter, Barbara Carey of Columbia, Tennessee; five grandchildren, Corrinna Bix, Scott Karg, Tammy Karg, Melissa Taylor, Shelley Karg; eight great grandchildren, Erica Rightsell, Mariah Rightsell, Dalton Bix, Austin Karg, Kourtney Karg, Karissa Karg, Ally Grant and Madeline Grant; brothers, Henry Karg of New Market, Iowa, Bobby Karg and wife Nadine of Clarinda, Iowa; sister, Edith DeBord of Creston, Iowa; nieces; nephews and many friends

Keep, Marilyn Beth Finlay - Marilyn Beth Keep, age 77, entered into eternal peace on Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at her home in Shenandoah. She was born October 8, 1934 in rural Blanchard, the daughter of David and Lola (Hullman) Finlay.

Beth graduated from Coin High School in 1953. She also attended one year of college at Clarinda Junior College. Beth was united in marriage to Orville Dean Keep on August 26, 1954 at her parent's farm house in rural Coin. Following their marriage they moved to Shenandoah.

Beth worked for Central Surveys from 1954 to 1957, Earl May Seed & Nursery Co. from 1958 to 1971, Henry Fields Seed & Nursery Co. from 1972-1978 and retired from Imperial Inc. in 1998. Beth held secretarial/clerical positions at each of these companies.

Beth was a member of Shenandoah Hospital Auxiliary and Summit United Methodist Church where she was a historian, communion steward, and Sunday school teacher. She enjoyed sports, loved to listen to and watch games, gardening, hiking and watching wildlife. She was also of great help to Orville out on the farm. Her grandchildren were the apple of her eye. Planning and organizing family get-togethers, brought her much joy.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 57 years, Orville Dean Keep of Shenandoah; children Diane Sue Ryan and husband Sean of Omaha, Scott Lee Keep and wife Mary Ann of Omaha, Brent Wade Keep and wife Janel of Lee Summit; grandchildren Seth David Keep and Paige Sydney Keep; other relatives and many friends

Keith, Dorothy Irene Thompson - Dorothy Irene (Thompson) Keith was born October 14, 1919 on a farm south of Bedford, Iowa. She was the youngest of three daughters born to Troy and Cora (Parks) Thompson. She spent her elementary school years in a nearby country school, and then lived with her maternal grandparents in Bedford to be within walking distance of Bedford High School, graduating in 1936. Throughout her school years, Dorothy was an active 4-H member and won many awards, including “Most Beautiful Complexion.”

Following high school graduation, and teacher preparation, Dorothy taught elementary school at Ross #3 Country School. With her first paychecks she proudly purchased one of her prized possessions, a gold Bulova watch.

Dorothy taught for a few years while her high school sweetheart, James Keith, moved to Kansas City to follow his dream as a commercial artist and continue his “Bobby Bear” cartoon for the Kansas City Journal. But a year later, missing the love of his life, and yearning for the farm, James returned to Bedford, became engaged to Dorothy in 1939 and married April 20, 1940.

Dorothy and James farmed south of Bedford for the next several years. During these years they purchased their first farm and three children were born. They enjoyed their family summer vacations—always west—Seattle, Rocky Mountains, the Black Hills, California. Weekends included the “Saturday Night 500 Club” with friends. Dorothy and James were active in the Church of Christ where she loved to sing with a lovely soprano voice. She had a passion for reading and learning and always followed her weekly shopping in town with visits to the public library.

Sadly, in 1957, her youngest daughter, Jana, passed away at the age of 18 months. This was a significant milestone that led to a lifestyle change for Dorothy and James. In 1958, they built a new home in Bedford on North Street—James doing almost all the labor. Dorothy began working at Thompson’s on Main Street, and shortly thereafter enrolled at Northwest Missouri State College. She and her best friend, Margaret Huelskamp, commuted a few times a week to Maryville, Missouri, to achieve their dreams of graduating from college. And that she did, with honors, in 1964.

During these years, Dorothy and James satisfied their entrepreneurial spirits and love for the West by spending summers in Estes Park where Dorothy worked at a western clothing retail store and James was a carpenter.

After graduating from college, Dorothy taught home economics for a year in Des Moines, Iowa, then landed the job of Page & Fremont County Home Economist. She and James bought a farm just east of Clarinda on Highway 71 and they began their plans to build a new home and a new life in Clarinda, Iowa.

Dorothy and James became vital and highly respected members of the Clarinda and Page/Fremont County communities. Dorothy achieved many honors in her field of work. She also supported James with his farming efforts and shared in his accomplishments, such as the State President Distinguished Pioneer Champions Club award for superior corn production. Her contributions to 4-H, the Page County Fair and the state fair are memorable.

After 15 years as Page/Fremont County Home Economist, Dorothy retired. James retired gradually over the next few years. During these retired years, Dorothy and James made many contributions to their community, actively supported their two adult children and had some fun.

Dorothy was a valuable member of PEO and other community organizations, belonged to several bridge groups and continued to be an avid reader. She and James made many improvements to their showcase home on 20th Street, designed by their architect son—none of which she loved more than her rose garden along the back patio. They were active members in the First Christian Church, gourmet club, and contributed significantly to the development of the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum. They travelled extensively with friends in the U.S. and abroad, and found great pleasure in visits to Denver and the Rocky Mountains where they snow skied with their children and grandchildren. Several years into their retirement they discovered Arizona and spent several enjoyable winter months in its sunshine. They had a very rich life with beloved friends and family.

In December, 1999, Dorothy lost James. Despite this great blow and several significant health episodes, Dorothy maintained a good life in her home in Clarinda. She enjoyed her coffee klatches with friends, her bridge, her church circle and other activities.

In 2004 Dorothy moved to Sioux City to be closer to family. She continued to find joy in her card games, though they now were on the computer, her reading and her contact with family and friends.

Dorothy passed away Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at the Sunrise Retirement Community in Sioux City, Iowa. She is preceded in death by James, her husband of 59 years; her daughter, Jana; her daughter-in-law, Caye Cross Keith; and her parents and sisters.

Dorothy is survived by her son, Kenneth Keith and wife Judy from Dakota Dunes, S.D.; daughter, Joyce Gietl and husband Jerry from Denver, CO; four grandchildren and their six children: Lisa Sudtelgte and husband Tim from Cypress, TX, Braden Keith and fiancé Becca from Sioux City, IA, Erik Smith and wife Lisa from Denver, CO, Stephanie Langer and husband Mark from Stamford, CT. She is also survived by four step-grandchildren, Jenni and Jay Gietl, and Chris and Pat Fox and their six children.

Funeral services for Dorothy will be held 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the First Christian Church in Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will follow the service at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday evening from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Clarinda. Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Siouxland, 4300 Hamilton Blvd., Sioux City, Iowa 51104.

Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

Kellison, Edna I. - Edna I. Kellison, 88, of Shenandoah, formerly from Plattsmouth, Nebraska.

Survivors include two sons: Jerry Kellison and wife Gail of Shenandoah, Iowa and Frances E. Kellison and wife Myrna of Marianna, Florida, daughter: Gerty Belle Barker of Palastine, Texas, 12 Grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild, two sisters: Barbara Richards of Emerson, Iowa and Ester Randolph and husband Robert of Riverton, Iowa

Funeral services for Lena Kenagy, age 93, of rural Clarinda, Iowa, who received her promotion into Glory, Friday, June 1, 2012 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m. at the College Springs Presbyterian Church, College Springs, Iowa with Reverend James Crapson officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 5-7 p.m. Monday, June 4, at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 5, prior to the service in the Summit Cemetery, rural Yorktown, Iowa.

Lena Navella Murren Kenagy was born May 16, 1919, in rural Page County, Iowa to Frank J. Murren and Elmira Kirk (Worrell) Murren. Lena the youngest of nine children was raised in the Pleasant Ridge Community east of Shambaugh. After graduating from Clarinda High School in 1937 with a Normal Training Certificate, she taught in Page County Schools, Fruit School and Davis School. Lena and John Kenagy were married at her rural home, east of Shambaugh on May 22, 1941. They were blessed with four children, Janet, John Jr., Navella and Margaret. They lived in the Kenagy family home in Lincoln Township and farmed there until his death in 1989.

Lena was a skilled seamstress, good cook, a talented pianist and a hard worker. She enjoyed reading, caring for her garden and flowers, mowing her lawn, church activities, monthly luncheons with high school classmates and spending time with family members.

Lena was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mira; husband, John Kenagy, Sr.; sister, Mildred and her brothers, Willie, Ferris, Lysle, Bufort, Delmar, Dean and Marion.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Janet and Marv Bakker of Ames, Iowa, John and Marion Kenagy of Clarinda, Iowa, Navella Kenagy of Ames, Iowa and Margaret and Marv Craft of Scottsdale, Arizona; her granddaughters and their families, Anne, Doug, Grace and Aaron Standerwick, of Juneau, Alaska and Lisa, Kevin, Mason and Carter Coleman of St. Louis, Missouri; sister-in-law, Catheryn Kenagy of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania; many nieces, nephews and cousins and countless friends

Kenagy, Navella Ann - Navella Kenagy, age 65, died Sunday, July 1, 2012 at Riverside Manor in Ames, Iowa. Burial at Summit Cemetery near Yorktown, Iowa will be at a later date.
Navella Ann Kenagy was born February 19, 1947 in Clarinda, Iowa to John Wesley and Lena Navella Kenagy. Navella grew up on the family farm in Page County along with older siblings, Janet and John Jr and a younger sister, Margaret. After graduation from South Page High School in 1965 Navella was employed as a secretary in Ruminant Nutrition, Animal Science Department at Iowa State University in Ames.
Navella played the clarinet in the high school band, took piano and and organ lessons and played for church services. She cooked wonderful fried chicken and her chocolate chip cookies were great! Navella was very independent and always thinking of others and taking action to meet their needs. She had an infectious laugh, was talented at writing poetry, was known for taking bakery items, often caramel pecan rolls, as treats for her family when she visited them in SW Iowa and would fly to Oklahoma to spend time with her nieces as they were growing up.
Navella bravely lived with the disease of Multiple Sclerosis, which in her case eventually became the reason for her disability retirement from the University in 1995.
She is survived by her siblings, Janet and Marv Bakker of Ames, IA; John and Marion Kenagy of Clarinda, IA; Margaret and Marv Craft of Scottsdale, AZ; her nieces and families, Anne, Doug, Grace and Aaron Standerwick of Juneau, AK ; Lisa, Kevin, Mason and Carter Coleman of St. Louis, MO as well as an aunt, Catheryn Kenagy of Jenkintown, PA, many cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lena Kenagy.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 8187 University Blvd., Suite B, Clive, IA 50325.
Ritchie Funeral Home assisted with arrangements

Kirby, Regina Margaret Youngberg - Regina passed away on Wednesday afternoon at the Gardenview Care Center.

A memorial is currently being established.

Regina Margaret (Youngberg) Kirby was born on January 19, 1917 in Essex, Iowa, the daughter of Eddie Emmanuel and Matilda Christina (Carlson) Youngberg. Regina entered into eternal peace on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at the Garden View Care Center in Shenandoah.

Regina grew up in the rural Essex area. She was baptized and confirmed at the Fremont Evangelical Lutheran Church at Nyman. She attended country school, Essex High School and later Red Oak High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1934. She continued her education at a junior college.

On Valentines Day of 1942 she was united in marriage to Wayne Kirby in Omaha, Nebraska. This union was blessed with the birth of five children; Eldon, Douglas, Kathleen, Pamela and Beth.

Regina was a dedicated wife and mother. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. Having coffee with her friends was also a highlight of her day. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Essex, St. John's Quilters and the Essex American Legion Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne, on March 24, 2006; son, Douglas Gene Kirby on April 4, 1952; and a brother, Donald Youngberg.

Those left to cherish her memory include her four children, Eldon Kirby and wife Melinda of Shenandoah, IA, Kathy Resh and husband Duane of Essex, IA, Pam Bremer and husband Jim of Ottumwa, IA and Beth Phipps and husband Roger of Farragut, IA; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah,Iowa

Kleckner, Alan Leroy - Alan Leroy Kleckner was born April 3, 1928 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of William S. and Eleanore Mae (Coffman) Kleckner. He passed away on Saturday evening, December 31, 2011 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Blue Springs, Missouri at the age of 83 years, 8 months and 28 days.

Alan grew up in the Farragut area and graduated from Farragut High School in 1945. Following high school he attended Iowa State University in Ames for one year. At that time, Alan’s good friend, Mr. R.F.Bickett told him should attend the railroad school in Chicago, Illinois. Alan took his advice and this started a very successful career with the railroad. He served a number of depots in Iowa with Farragut, Sidney and Villisca being a few. He later served with Burlington Northern Railroad throughout Missouri and Kansas. He enjoyed his many years with the railroad.

Alan loved the outdoors, especially trapping and fishing. He had been a member of the Friendship Masonic Lodge #379 of Farragut, Iowa as well as the Farragut United Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carolyn; brother-in-law, Kennard Tompkins; and a nephew, Kevin Tompkins.

Survivors include his sister, Gretchen Tompkins of Shenandoah, Iowa; two nieces, Carolyn Atterberry of Shenandoah, Iowa, Cathy Brink and her husband Paul of Shenandoah, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends

Kling, Norman Lee - Norman Lee Kling, 86, of Shenandoah, Iowa, passed away Friday, July 20, at Westview Care Center in Indianola surrounded by his children. Norman was born Jan. 26, 1926, in Council Bluffs to Martin Luther Kling and Ellen Kling. He grew up on a farm near Emerson and moved to Shenandoah while in the eighth grade. When Norman's dad died in 1940, he went to work at Colonial Poultry Farms hatchery at the age of 16 to support his mother and himself. It was at the hatchery when he first dated Margaret Greenwalt.
Norman enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944 and attended the Great Lakes Naval Academy in Chicago and then radio school at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. It was here when Norman chose to become a submariner. After submarine school he completed his radar schooling (which at that time was top secret) in the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn. He continued his education in San Diego at sonar school aboard the U.S.S. Tautog. Kling was assigned to the U.S.S. Sirago in Portsmouth N.H. They slept beside the sub as it was being constructed.
After he was discharged from the Navy, Norman returned to Shenandoah and married his longtime sweetheart, Margaret Greenwalt, June 12, 1946, in Shenandoah where they proudly raised their family. He began his long-time career as a broadcast engineer at KMA radio in 1949 and also sold and repaired televisions at Kling/Lund Television for many years. Norman also recorded and dubbed tapes for Kitchen Klatter, which was the longest-running homemaker show in U.S. radio history. He retired from KMA radio as chief engineer in 1989.
Norman was an amateur ham radio operator with the call sign of W0JGN and was also an avid hunter, trapper, fisherman and loved spending time at the 22 Gun Club farm. He was an excellent trap shooter and traveled throughout Iowa competing. He shared his love of fishing with his wife Margaret whom he helped up and down the banks of the Nishnabotna. Norman was a member of the First Christian Church in Shenandoah and a member of the American Legion since 1946.
A year after Margaret's death, Norman moved to Westview Care Center in Indianola. Although he only lived a short time in Indianola, he loved the care he received at Westview.
Norman is survived his children, Benny (Nancy) Kling of Bloomfield, N.M.; Bob (Susan J.) Kling of Indianola; and Carolea (Mark) Miller of Le Mars; six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; nieces, nephews, one brother-in-law, Harley Greenwalt and many, many friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Margaret; his parents; one brother, Elder Kling; and sisters Velma and Mildred Kling and one great-grandchild, James Kling.
Memorials may be made to the Shenandoah American Legion. Visitation for friends and family is from 6 to 8 p.m., Tues., July 24, at Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home. The funeral is at 10:30 a.m., Wed., July 25, also at Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home followed by military graveside services at Rose Hill Cemetary. A luncheon will follow at the First Christian Church in Shenandoah

Kovar, Alice Kohlbek - Alice Kovar, age 84, of Braddyville, Iowa, entered into peace Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at her home in rural Braddyville, Iowa following a lengthy battle with cancer. No services will be held. Burial will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Alice Kovar, 84, loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother entered into peace on April 4, 2012 at her home in rural Braddyville, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her husband Jim. Alice was the youngest of eight children, born in South Omaha, Nebraska on February 23, 1928 to Martin and Agnes Kohlbek. She attended St. Agnes Catholic Church in Omaha as a young girl and graduated from Omaha South High. After graduating, she worked at Brandeis Department Store where she met her husband, Jim Kovar after his four year tour in the army. They were united in marriage on July 10, 1948. They were blessed with four children, David, Michael, Robert and Carol.

Alice helped her husband operate a gas station and café in Union, Nebraska until 1965 when they move to their farm by Braddyville, Iowa. She then worked as a homemaker and nurses' aide for Vesta Reed for fourteen years. Alice enjoyed all her children and said many times that she had four of the best kids. She loved the outdoors and taking care of her flowers and yard.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, David Kovar of Braddyville, Iowa, Michael Kovar of Clarinda, Iowa, Robert Kovar and wife Gail of Excelsior Springs, Missouri and Carol Tompkins and husband Sam of Excelsior Springs, Missouri; sister, Ann Hofshier of Seaside, California; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends

Larabee, Clara Cox Wilkinson - Funeral services for Clara Cox Larabee will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb 16, 20912 at Northboro United Methodist Church with Pastor Buck officiating. Interment will be at Union Grove Cemetery, Northboro. Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Memorials are suggested to Northboro United Methodist Church. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Clara Larabee, the daughter of Roy Martin and Hazel Pearl (Wolf) Wilkinson was born January 7, 1928 in Westboro, MO.
Clara was raised in the Westboro area, graduating from Westboro High School in 1946 where she played the coronet in the band. She was united in marriage to Clifford R. (Ray) Cox on August 17, 1947 at the Northboro United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Northboro United Methodist Church and active in Boy Scouts, United Methodist Women’s Club, Choir Director of Jr & Sr Choirs, Rook Club and Eastern Star in Blanchard. She worked for Tip Top, Henry Fields Nursery and JC Penney’s. Following the death of Ray in 1966, she married Gary Larabee on December 31, 1971 and moved to Clarinda. There she worked for Clarinda MHI until moving to Lincoln in 1980 where she worked for the Lincoln Regional Center until 1995. She was baptized at the Temple Baptist Church in Lincoln. During her tenure with the Regional Center she received the Woods Award. The Regional Center residents looked forward to the annual Christmas party Clara hosted at her home. Clara and Gary moved to St. Joseph in 1995 where Clara worked as a home health aide for Interserv for 11 years. She became a member of the Fredrick Southern Baptist Church.
She enjoyed gardening, traveling, playing the organ and piano, spending time with family and her pets.
Clara was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Hazel; first husband, Ray; husband, Gary; one brother, Raymond Wilkinson, and sister Louise Cook.
Clara is survived by son Don Cox and wife Rita of Omaha, NE; daughter Bonnie Miller and husband Terry of Stanton, IA; 5 grandchildren: Bart Cox, Nick Cox, , Megan Stephens, Erin (Warren) Ford, and Jessica Rivera and fiancé Brian Diamond, all of Omaha, NE; 4 great grandchildren: Connor and Samantha Stephens; Isabella Eastman and Madalann Rivera, all of Omaha, NE; twin sister Claris Mather of Tarkio, MO; sister-in-law Susan Jackson and brother-in-law Craig Larabee, both of Lincoln, NE; nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends

Clara Larabee, the daughter of Roy Martin and Hazel Pearl (Wolf) Wilkinson was born Jan. 7, 1928 in Westboro, MO. She passed away Sunday, February 12, 2012 at Adams, Nebraska.

Clara was raised in the Westboro area, graduating from Westboro High School in 1946 where she played the coronet in the band. She was united in marriage to Clifford R. (Ray) Cox on August 17, 1947 at the Northboro United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Northboro United Methodist Church and active in Boy Scouts, United Methodist Women's Club, Choir Director of Jr & Sr Choirs, Rook Club and Eastern Star in Blanchard. She worked for Tip Top, Henry Fields Nursery and JC Penney's. Following the death of Ray in 1966, she married Gary Larabee on December 31, 1971 and moved to Clarinda. There she worked for Clarinda MHI until moving to Lincoln in 1980 where she worked for the Lincoln Regional Center until 1995. She was baptized at the Temple Baptist Church in Lincoln. During her tenure with the Regional Center she received the Woods Award. The Regional Center residents looked forward to the annual Christmas party Clara hosted at her home. Clara and Gary moved to St. Joseph in 1995 where Clara worked as a home health aide for Interserv for 11 years. She became a member of the Fredrick Southern Baptist Church.

She enjoyed gardening, traveling, playing the organ and piano, spending time with family and her pets.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Hazel; first husband, Ray; husband, Gary; one brother, Raymond Wilkinson, and sister Louise Cook.

Clara is survived by son Don Cox and wife Rita of Omaha, NE; daughter Bonnie Miller and husband Terry of Stanton, IA; 5 grandchildren: Bart Cox, Nick Cox, , Megan Stephens, Erin (Warren) Ford, and Jessica Rivera and fiancé Brian Diamond, all of Omaha, NE; 4 great grandchildren: Connor and Samantha Stephens; Isabella Eastman and Madalann Rivera, all of Omaha, NE; twin sister Claris Mather of Tarkio, MO; sister-in-law Susan Jackson and brother-in-law Craig Larabee, both of Lincoln, NE; nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Thursday, February 16, 2012 at Northboro United Methodist Church with Pastor Buck officiating. Interment was at Union Grove Cemetery, Northboro. Memorials are suggested to the church. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements

Lauman, Maybelle "Maxine" Booth - Maxine passed away on Monday, January 30, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center.

Memorials may be directed to the Farragut Cemetery or the Shenandoah Fire and Rescue.

Maybelle Maxine Booth was born on July 1, 1921 on a farm near Farragut, Iowa. She was the youngest daughter of Thomas William and Jennie Elizabeth Booth. Maxine entered into eternal peace on Monday, January 30, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center, at the age of 90 years.

Maxine grew up in the Manti community and attended school in Farragut. She graduated from Farragut Community School with the Class of 1939. Maxine worked in Shenandoah for several years before her marriage to Harold Lauman on September 28, 1947. After their marriage they moved to a farm in the Locust Grove township near Midway and lived there all of their married life. The couple was blessed with the birth of three children; Marilee, David and Larry.

After Harold's death in December of 1990, Maxine moved to Shenandoah, where she lived the remainder of her life. She enjoyed being with her family and friends, her church and other activities.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Harold; and sisters Daisy Jeffery, Darlene Booth and Dorothy Krell.

Those left to honor her memory include her children Marilee Pease and husband C.D., of Shenandoah, David Lauman and wife Susan of Omaha, NE and Larry Lauman and wife Beverly of Emerson, IA; two grandchildren Darin Pease and wife Jackie of Shenandoah and Christy Simon of Omaha, NE; 5 great-grandchildren Tori, Timothy, Joshua, Jenna and Kristina; 1 great-great grandchild Sophie; four nephews Jay Krell and wife Susan of Scottsboro, AL, Tom Krell and wife Jan of Huntsville, AL, Rodney Lauman of St. Johnsberry, VT and Ricky Lauman of Portland, ME; sister-in-law Carol Lauman of St. Johnsberry, VT; other relatives and dear friends

Lawson, Steven Robert - Steven Robert Lawson was born Feb 22, 1959 at Clarinda, Iowa to Robert and Norma (Barragar) Lawson. He was baptized at First Christian Church. Steve graduated from the Clarinda High School in 1977. He managed the New Market Super Market and helped his father at Boyd’s Market in Clarinda. He and his father were realtors at Lawson Real Estate with Steve becoming the Broker after his father’s health forced his retirement. He also was the owner of U-Store storage in Clarinda.
Following a brief battle with cancer Steve passed away Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center. He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Lawson, in 2002.
Surviving Steve are his mother, Norma, of Clarinda; sisters Sheryl Messenger and husband LeRoy of Elk Grove Village, Il, Julia Graham and husband John of Northbrook, Il, and Becky Brownlee of Clarinda; nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday Aug 30, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel with interment at Clarinda Cemetery. Family visitation will be held one hour prior to services. There is open visitation at the funeral chapel Wednesday noon to 8 p.m. Memorials are suggested to First Christian Church or Clarinda Ambulance/EMS

Lee, Kathryn Lucille Carr - Funeral services for Kathryn Lee, age 94, of Clarinda, who entered into peace Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the Eiler House, Clarinda, were held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 12, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda with Reverend Beckie Linn Gregory officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m., Friday, May 11, 2012 at the funeral home. Burial was held in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda. Memorials may be directed to Nodaway Free Clinic. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.
Kathryn Lucille Lee was born September 17, 1917, at Clarinda to Bruce and Wilma June (Linebaugh) Carr. She grew up in Clarinda and graduated from Clarinda High School in 1935. Kate and Chester Lee were united in marriage August 20, 1936 in Atchison, Kan. They were blessed with four children, Karen, Deanna, Leeland Martin, and Melanie.
Kate was a life long resident of Clarinda and a member of the First Christian Church for over fifty years. She was also an active member for over fifty years of the Order of Eastern Star. She was assistant mother advisor for Rainbow girls. Kate had many interests; her passion was quilting and collecting Hummel figurines. She also enjoyed rooster figurines, traveling, shopping, gardening and reading. She took great pride in her family and enjoyed their accomplishments.
Preceding Kate in death were her parents; husband, Chester Lee; daughter, Karen Merle Lee; brother, Leeland Merle Carr.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Deanna Lyon of Schleswig, Iowa; son, Martin Lee and wife Carol of Bonita Springs, Fla.; daughter, Melanie Sump and husband Darrel of Clarinda, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Valerie Wise and husband Steve of Lancaster, Pa.; Jana Lyon of Omaha, Neb.; Tina Berg and husband Brad of West Des Moines, Iowa; Dr. Michael S. Lee and wife Kristin of Johnston, Iowa; Stacy Berringer and husband James of Lincoln, Neb.; Wendy Schoen and husband Jason of Blue Springs, Mo.; Capt. Scott Montgomery and wife Karrie of Sierra Vista, Ariz.; fifteen great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Phillip Lee of Long Beach, Calif.; nieces, nephews and many friends.
Kate will be missed by her family and friends but her memory will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to those who mourn her passing

Leek, Mildred Vivian Jackson - Mildred Vivian (Jackson) Leek was born February 7, 1913 in Coin, Iowa; the daughter of Pleas and Margaret Jackson. Mildred attended and graduated from Northboro High School and continued her education at Peru State College for one year. After finishing her schooling, she taught for five years at North Star and High Creek Country Schools. Mildred was united in marriage to John Reed Leek on March 7, 1936 in Auburn, Nebraska. To this union were born four children: Donna, Lawrence, Dennis and Rodger.
Mildred worked as a homemaker on their farm near New Market until moving into town in 2006.
Mildred passed away at the age of 98 on January 25, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband John; sister Dorothy Murphy; brothers: Wayne, Paul and Lloyd Jackson; son-in-law Merlin LaVon Gray; daughter-in-law Martha Leek and great granddaughter Alexandra Lane Gray.
Surviving Mildred are her children: Donna Gray of Kansas City, Missouri, Lawrence Leek of Des Moines, Iowa, Dennis Leek and wife Ethel of Boliver, Missouri and Rodger Leek of Emporia, Kansas; eight grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; sister-in-law Bonnie Jackson of Coin, Iowa; brother-in-law Loy Leek of Houston, Missouri; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral services for Mildred will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2012 at the New Market Methodist Church with burial to follow at the Memory Cemetery in rural New Market. Visitation with the family present is scheduled for one hour prior to the start of the service. Memorials are suggested to the New Market Methodist Church.
Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

Leighton, Michael Scott - Celebration of Life services for Michael Leighton, age 40, of New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Sunday, May 20 at Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, were be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 24, at the Church of Christ, New Market, Iowa with Russ Clark and Loren Daly officiating. Visitation with the family was held 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church prior to the service. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery, New Market. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda.
Michael Scott Leighton was born March 24, 1972, in Wheatridge, Colorado, and passed away Sunday, May 20, at Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska. His parents are Mary Helen Keller and the late Robert Glenn Leighton. His father passed away when Mike was three years old, and he was raised by his mother and stepfather, the late Lyle Eldon Combs.
He began school at New Market Elementary School, and then attended schools in New Hampton, Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa, Crosby, Texas, Highlands, Texas, Mexia, Texas. He then returned to New Market in the seventh grade. He attended New Market School through his sophomore year, and then moved to Oregon where he graduated from Neah-Kah-Nie High School in Rockaway Beach, Oregon, in 1990.
He attended Clarinda Community College in 1991.
He worked for Luke Druivenga on a farm near Osceola before moving to Ames, Iowa, where he worked as framer, painter, carpenter and concrete worker. He also worked for Moehl Millwork in Ankeny, Iowa. He was a hard worker wherever he worked, and was a favorite with all his co-workers.
Mike was an avid fisherman, and fished every pond for miles around. He particularly loved salmon fishing with his parents while he lived in Oregon. He loved taking his nieces and nephews fishing. He spent as much time as he could; camping in Cook Creek in the mountains of Oregon.
Mike enjoyed all kinds of music, but more than anything in the world loved to play blues music on his Fender Stratocaster. He spent hours playing his guitar everywhere he lived, jamming with friends and family.
He loved playing pool and cards. He spent a lot of time playing cards with family members, including time with his nieces and nephews, teaching them pitch and peanuts.
Kids loved Mike, and he loved kids. His nieces and nephews always had a great time with Uncle Mike, no matter what they did together. His friends' children adored him, too.
Mike was predeceased by his father, Robert Glenn Leighton, stepfather Lyle Combs, his niece Bethany Leighton, his maternal and paternal grandparents, several aunts and uncles, cousins Melanie Mulkins, Brad and Brenton Graham.
He is survived by his mother, Mary Combs of New Market, Iowa; his sister Lana Gotcher and husband Greg of Tulsa, Oklahoma; his sister Joyce Carlson and husband Dave of College Springs, Iowa; his brother Alan Leighton and wife Elaine of Des Moines, Iowa; his brother Larry Leighton and wife Kay of Sun City West, Arizona; stepsister Susan Laddusaw and husband Gary of Washougal, Washington; stepbrother Wayne Combs of Nevada; nieces and nephews: Ian Carlson, wife Emily and son Dreyton; Jeremy Carlson, wife Tessa, sons Noah, Drew and Gavin, daughter Cadence; Traci Smith, husband Tim and son Colton; Rachael Gotcher; Zoe Leighton and Shelby Leighton; and six step-nieces and two step-nephews. He is also survived by aunts and uncles: Arlene King, Jack Keller and wife Mary Ann, Jeanie Graham and husband Roy, Anita Keller, Loleta Spring and husband Gary; Judy Sparks, Don Leighton, June Leighton, and many, many cousins.
Mike will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. His kindness and generosity to others will never be forgotten. Our memories from the last 40 years will remain in our hearts forever

Lewis, Hazel Marie Brown Alexander Hall - Hazel Marie Lewis was born on January 28, 1919, in Athelstan, Iowa, the daughter of Burl and Anna (White) Brown. Hazel entered into eternal rest on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at the Red Oak Care Center.

During her working years Hazel was employed as a truck driver and worked at Union Carbide for nearly 30 years, until her retirement. She was a lifelong member of the Nazarene Church where she taught Sunday School and served as Missionary President for many years. She was deeply devoted to her family, church and to God.

As a way to give back to the community, Hazel started the Food Pantry in Red Oak and managed it until she was physically unable to do so any longer. She also served as a caregiver to the elderly for over 20 years. She loved to fish, watch wrestling, and enjoyed watching the squirrels from her window. She was also an avid Bible reader.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Darrel Alexander; second husband, George Hall; and third husband, French "Toby" Lewis; an infant daughter Alice Faye; brother-in-law Everett Rowe; her parents; and great-grandson Jax Carroll.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter Anna Sunderman and husband Joe of Clarinda; five grandchildren, Jessie Patterson, Jade Brownfield; Tobi Dayle Sunderman, Caleb Sunderman and Miranda Sunderman; two sisters, Lillian Freuck of Red Oak, IA and Violet Rowe of Essex, IA; two nephews, Larry Brown and wife Joan of Emerson and Dwayne Rowe of Essex; niece, Barbara Allocco and husband Len of Omaha; many great-nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends

Lorimor, Danley K. - Danley K. Lorimor was born November 19, 1932 in Hamburg, Iowa, the son of James Harold and Floy Elaine (King) Lorimor. He passed away on Wednesday afternoon, February 15, 2012 in Sidney, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 2 months and 27 days.

Dan grew up in rural Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1951. On February 27, 1955, he was united in marriage to Frances Moss at the Methodist Church in Shenandoah. This union was blessed with three children; Linda, Tom and Paul.

Dan was a farmer all his life. He enjoyed traveling and being outside where he could hunt, fish, trap and operate his bulldozer. His true love was flying his Super Cub.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Jackie McLaren.

Survivors include his wife, Frances Lorimor of Sidney, Iowa; his children, Linda Maxwell and her husband Don of White Heath, Illinois, Tom Lorimor and his wife Rita of Sidney, Iowa, Paul Lorimor and his wife Sherry of Archie, Missouri; five grandchildren, Thomas Bailey of Tel Aviv, Israel, Debra Straw and her husband Josh of Lincoln, Nebraska, Renee Johnson and her husband Ross of Denver, Colorado, Wyatt Lorimor and Weston Lorimor of Archie, Missouri; great granddaughter, Kaedyn Straw of Lincoln, Nebraska; along with many other relatives and friends

Maxine Strickland Loudon was born on the family farm in the Hepburn area on August 15, 1913 to Henry A. and Gertrude Mae (Williams) Strickland. At the time of her birth, their farmhouse was still under construction and the family lived in a cinder block garage, which allowed snow to filter down on her crib during her first winter. Two older brothers, Claude and Darwin, also helped toughen her. On one occasion, they left their baby sister alone under a tree all afternoon, forgetting about her until they returned home without her. Her first year of education was at Sam's School, a one room school near the farm.. She also attended Villisca Public School one year and Central High school in Omaha one semester while her mother was in cosmetology school; however the rest of her primary and secondary schooling was in Clarinda where she graduated in 1930 at age 16, having skipped 3 half grades.

In 1932 she graduated from Clarinda Junior College and in 1934 from Northwest Missouri State where she helped with expenses by working in the library, living with nuns and eating lots of popcorn. The next 3 years she taught English and Social Studies, and coached girls' baseball at Oregon High School in Oregon, Missouri, while boarding with the school board president's family.

On May 28, 1937, she married Hugh Loudon at her family farm. In 2007 they celebrated their 70th anniversary. Their honeymoon was their journey to Washington D.C. where Hugh was a congressional aide. Maxine spent a year and a half in Washington, where the highlight was meeting Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt at a formal tea in the White House.

In 1939, Hugh and Maxine lived in Omaha and she worked in the district census office. The following year they returned to Clarinda where their only child, Lyn, was born. During the 40's and 50's Maxine did sporadic substitute teaching and from 1960 to 1981 she worked in the Iowa Dept. of Social Services as a social worker. In 1964 Maxine and Hugh built their dream house that they enjoyed sharing with family and friends for almost 40 years. From the 60's onward they also traveled extensively visiting 60 countries and every continent except Antarctica.

Besides traveling, Maxine's interests included history and culture, entertaining, volunteering and especially spending time with family and friends. She was a member of the Library Board and Grey Ladies; she participated in the Clarinda Area Volunteers, recruiting drivers to deliver meals on wheels, and working at the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum. Maxine was a 50+ year member of PEO. She was also the longest continuous member of the First United Methodist Church and active in various United Methodist Women's groups.

She died October 24, 2012 at Westridge Quality Care and Rehabilitation Center, Clarinda, Iowa. Maxine is survived by her daughter, Lyn, son-in-law Orville Dodd, sister-in-law, Elaine Strickland, several cousins, niece Melodie Della Cava (Lou), nephews, Jan Strickland (Sue), Robert Strickland (Gayle), James Loudon, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Hugh; brothers Claude and Darwin Strickland, sister-in-laws Ruth Strickland and Erma Loudon, brother-in-law Deloss Loudon

Maxine was beloved by her family and will be missed by many who knew her as a loyal, caring friend

Lowe, Clarice Pearl Widboom - Clarice Pearl (Widboom) Lowe was born August 11, 1932 at Lake Sarah, Minnesota to Clarence and Pearl (Gordon) Widboom.
She attended business school in Minneapolis and worked in the banking industry. She was married to Thomas Walter Lowe and the couple had two children: Lori and Thomas Scott Lowe.
After her husband Thomas passed away Clarice moved to Omaha in 1986. She lived there until she needed assisted living in August 2012. At that time she moved into the Eiler House in Clarinda, Iowa. Clarice passed away Friday, November 2, 2012 at the Eiler House at the age of 80.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; parents Clarence and Pearl Widboom; and brother-in-law James Anderson.
Clarice is survived by her children: Lori Wiebesiek and husband Dan of Clarinda, Iowa, and Thomas Scott Lowe of Omaha, Nebraska; three granddaughters Lindsay Nielsen, Omaha, Kaylie Nielsen, Cedar Falls, Iowa, and BrieAnn Nielsen, Clarinda; sisters Gloria Anderson of Owatanna, Minnesota, and Dolores Denney and husband Harold of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Private interment will be at Slayton Cemetery, Slayton, Minnesota. Memorials are suggested to New Market or Bedford United Methodist Churches, Friendz of Felines of Nebraska, or Westside Baptist Church of Omaha. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda, Iowa is in charge of arrangements

Lundgren, Phyllis Marie Olson - Phyllis Marie (Olson) Lundgren, daughter of Carl Emanuel and Nellie Sophia (Wedell) Olson, was born on July 4, 1923 in York, Nebraska. She passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 88.

Her early life was spent in the York, Nebraska area before the family moved to Strahan, Iowa, where Phyllis attended and graduated from Strahan High School with the Class of 1941.

On February 15, 1953, Phyllis was united in marriage to Vernon Martin Lundgren at the First United Methodist Church in Shenandoah. To this union two sons were born, Randall and Kirk. Following their marriage they resided in rural Yorktown, Iowa before moving to Essex in 1994.

Phyllis worked at one of the Shenandoah banks, Henry Field's Seed & Nursery, Lawson's Jewelry store and several other retail stores throughout her working career. She was a member of the Fremont Covenant Church and later transferred to the Faith Evangelical Covenant Church in Essex. Her interests were her family and grandchildren.

Preceding Phyllis in death were her parents; husband, Vernon, in 1999; and sister, Carol MacDonald Olson. Survivors include her two sons, Randall Lundgren of Essex and Kirk Lundgren and his wife Holly of Urbandale, IA; two grandchildren, Ciera Lundgren and Carter Lundgren, both of Urbandale, IA; two sisters, Eloise Turner of Papillion, NE and Lorraine Grindle of Glenwood, IA; two sister-in-laws, Myrtle Greever and husband Keith of Shenandoah and Nadine Lundgren of Essex. Phyllis is also survived by many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; plus a host of other relatives and friends