Brammer, Cecila - Mass of Christian Burial Services for Evelyn Brammer, age 92, of Lenox, Iowa, who passed away Sunday, December 24, 2017 at the Clearview Home in Clearfield, Iowa will be held Thursday, December 28, 2017 at 1:00 PM at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Lenox, Iowa. Visitation and lunch will be held following committal at the East Fairview Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Evelyn Cecila (Wurster) Brammer was born February 7, 1925, in Taylor County, Iowa the daughter of Samuel Wurster and Mary (Cameron) Wurster. She grew up an only child, on the farm known as 'the round barn farm' south of Lenox. She attended country school until her senior year where she attended St. Catherine's Catholic School in Des Moines, graduating with the Class of 1943. After graduation, Evelyn worked as a secretary for Phillips Oil Corporation and also as a Census Taker for the State Capitol in Des Moines. She was united in marriage to Richard Brammer on June 19, 1947. The couple made their home on Evelyn's family round barn farm south of Lenox, where they lived until 1966, when they moved to their present home. Six children were born to bless Evelyn's life, Patty, Wayne, Allen, Larry, Vickie and Lexie.

Evelyn enjoyed living on the farm, raising her children. She raised a large garden, enjoyed embroidery work, long car rides, shopping and visiting with family. After the children were gone from home, they enjoyed taking vacations, usually south, however, she loved the Smokey Mountains. The couple wintered in Mountain Home, Arkansas for many years.
Left to cherish Evelyn’s memory is her husband Richard Brammer of Lenox, Iowa; Wayne Brammer and wife Betty of Clearfield, Iowa; Allen Brammer and wife Linda of Clearfield, Iowa; Vickie Dukes and husband Dennis of Greenfield, Iowa; and Lexie Starlin and husband Don of Creston, Iowa; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Evelyn in death are her parents, Samuel and Mary Wurster; her in-laws, Rollie and Ethel Brammer; her son Larry Brammer in 1966; her daughter Patty Perez in 2016; and her granddaughter Theresa Moses in 2016

Robert (Bob) Alan Cameron was born on August 31, 1956 to Theola Maxine (Monk) Cameron and Lloyd Eugene Cameron in Corning, Iowa. He was the second eldest of four children.

Robert graduated from Clearfield High School in 1975. He was known, in his already rowdy bunch of classmates, for pulling a few good pranks during his day. Right after high school, he attended Southwestern Community College in Creston, receiving his 18-month trade school degree in carpentry. Robert was united in marriage to Marie Jo Bolinger on June 8th, 1979. Robert was currently working at the Crestland lumberyard in Creston until 1982 when he lost his vision completely and was forced to resign from the position. He then opened up a family business, selling and repairing small engines, hence the name, Cameron Small Engine. His son, Christopher was born on September 28, 1986. In 1994, Robert had quadruple bypass after sustaining dual heart attacks while running his then, Cameron Computer Services business in Clearfield. The business was freshly getting off its feet as well.

Bob loved serving his community as well. He served on the city council for 12 years and on the Clearfield School Board for 15 years. He was also a member of the Clearfield Lions Club, Clearfield United Methodist Church and Clearfield Business Club. While Chris was young, Bob served as a Cub Scout Leader.

“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up.” Bob was an avid Packers fan and this quote came from his favorite and most inspired coach, Vince Lombardi who the NFL Super Bowl Trophy is named after. While Bob recovered from a lot of things throughout his life, one thing he never did was the loss of being able to coach youth and to help develop young minds. From when his son Chris was in elementary until well after Chris was graduated, Robert coached and even held a coaching endorsement through the State of Iowa. One of Robert’s favorite hobbies was music. He loved music so much that their first piece of furniture in marriage was a stereo system and a CCR vinyl. This is just might be why Marie isn’t a fan of CCR anymore. Eventually Bob got his dream job and started his own DJ business with his favorite person in the world, his wife, Marie, called, “In The Dark, Mobile DJ’s.”

When his health began to fail, Robert had to finally give this hobby up as well. His love never let up for his wife or his son and his drive to make his friends and family laugh. Robert was the perfect image of one of those one of a kind guys.

Robert passed away on December 7, 2017. He was preceded in death were his parents, Lloyd and Theola (Monk) Cameron; grandparents, Claude and Eva (Greer) Monk and Ray and Ellen (House) Cameron; uncles, Cecil and Darrell Monk; and aunts, Bertha Monk and Lucille Miller.

Survivors include wife, Marie (Bolinger) Cameron of Creston, his son, Christopher Cameron of Creston; brothers, Tracy (Cindy) Cameron of Lenox; Marty (Shawn) Cameron of Diagonal; sister Kelly (Kyle) Freshour of Lenox; brother-in-laws, Patrick (Sherri) Bolinger of Lenox; Allen (Sandy) Dougherty of Leon; Rusty (Carrie) O’Brien of Garden City, Idaho; sister-in-laws, Barb (Mark) Thornton of Fairfield; Patty Knaub of Fort Morgan, Colorado; aunts and uncles; Ronald (Bev) Monk of Marshalltown; Phyllis (Jack) Gourley of Lenox; Paul ( Barbara) Monk of Des Moines and Verla Monk of Clearfield. Nieces and nephews; Tori (Wayne) Grantz, of DeWitt; Shannon ( Matt) Groves of Hillsboro, North Dakota; Levi Cameron (Shelby) of Diagonal; Taylor ( Bradley) Bentley of Diagonal; Bailey ( Dillon) Drake of Diagonal; Melissa (Paul) Crosman of Boone; Ryan Bolinger of Sioux City; Adam Bolinger of Ames; Jennifer (Lucas) Behlers of Sharpsburg; Annessa Thornton of Fairfield; Alexandria Thornton of Des Moines; Addison Thornton of Fairfield; Stephanie McClellan of Leon; Joshua (Cassie) Knaub; Krysta Knaub; Kellie Knaub; and Brodie Knaub of Fort Morgan, Colorado; as well as great nieces and nephews, and other family and friends.

Dalton, Frances Ellen (Shafar) - Frances Dalton, age 96, of Lenox, Iowa, entered into peace Monday, December 4, 2017 at Lenox Care Center. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 8 , 2017 at United Presbyterian Church, Lenox, Iowa with Reverend Tim Maxa officiating. Burial will 9:00 a.m., Saturday, December 9, 2017 in the Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox, Iowa.

Frances Ellen (Shafar) Dalton, daughter of Leslie Fay Shafar and Namoi Ellen (Hedrick) Shafar was born on March 12, 1921 in a farmhouse near Rodman, Iowa. They moved to Bedford in 1935 where Frances graduated from Bedford High School in 1939.

On March 14, 1942, Frances married Darrell Dean Dalton in Mayville, Missouri. They first lived and farmed south of Bedford when Darrell served in the Navy from 1944-1946. They continued to farm south of Bedford upon his return. In the mid 1950’s they moved to Conway to farm, and then in 1963, they left the farm and moved to Omaha, where they worked for the Omaha Home for Boys. In 1967, they moved to Des Moines where they were employed by the American Institute of Business as house parents. In 1989 they moved to Red Oak, Iowa, and in 2001 they moved to Lenox.

Frances belonged to the sorority at the American Institute of Business, was a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Lenox, and was an American Legion auxiliary member.

Left to cherish France’s memory are her two sons, Dick (wife Deb) Dalton of Lenox and Bob (wife Barb) Dalton of Colfax, North Carolina; a daughter, Cheryl (husband Dick) Hatfield of Knoxville, Iowa; eleven grandchildren, Quent (wife Sharon) Dalton, Nicky (husband Rob) Brammer, Trisha (husband Jared) Mains, Paul (wife Klisa) Lynam, Amy (husband Jeff) Tull, and Evan (wife Jo) Lynam; Katrina Hatfield, Jennifer (husband Josh) Faber, Ryan (wife Tam Mai) Dalton, Chris (wife Carrie) Dalton, Lauren Dalton, twenty five great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Bette Priest of Emmetsburg, Iowa and Mary Utsler of Leesburg, Florida; brother Ned Shafar of Newton, Kansas, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Darrell; daughter, Jeannie Dalton in 1960, and siblings, George, Bob, Dick, Roy, Hazel, Ina Lou, Leola and Mildred

Dawson, Donna Lou DeVoe - Funeral Services for Donna Dawson, age 85, of Bedford, who passed away Sunday, December 17, 2017 in Apache Junction, Arizona will be held Friday, December 22, 2017 at 11:00 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa.

Donna Lou (DeVoe) Dawson was born May 14, 1932, southwest of Conway, Iowa, the daughter of Charles R. DeVoe and Mildred T. (Roberts) DeVoe. She grew up attending school and graduating from Conway High School. After High School she and her sister Lois worked at the Western Light and Telephone company in Bedford. On June 12, 1954, Donna was united in marriage to William Dawson in Maryville Missouri. 

Following their marriage Donna continued to live and work in Bedford as Bill continued to serve his country in the Navy. Following Bill's discharge from the Navy he and Donna began managing motels in both Texas and St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Donna was always very fond of animals and had several through the years. Donna had a parakeet, "Tippy" as she fondly called him and a poodle named “Pierre” that she enjoyed for many years. Donna also enjoyed doing ceramics when she was younger. 

In 1988 Bill and Donna moved back to Bedford from Arizona where they had lived many years. Following the passing of her husband in 1989 Donna began working at the Junction Cafe. Donna was a wonderful waitress and always enjoyed visiting with the people she served. Donna was a faithful worker and retired at the age of 80. Through the years Donna enjoyed playing Bingo and made many friends both in Iowa and Arizona while doing so. 

Donna was always very particular about her home and her yard. Everything had its place in her home and her yard. She could even be seen trimming the blades of grass along her sidewalk, on her hands and knees, with a pair of scissors! 

Left to cherish Donna's memory is her brother, Doyle DeVoe; sister, Lois Scott; nephews and nieces, Steve DeVoe, Mike DeVoe, Sandy Piercy, Short DeVoe, Teri Larson, Jeff Scott, Jerry Moore, Jeanne Moore-Cook, Jim Moore, Kay Deluca and Kim Rogers; many more great-nieces and great-nephews; along with family and friends from both Iowa and her winter home Apache Junction, Arizona. 

Preceding Donna in death are her husband Bill; parents, Charles and Mildred DeVoe; brother-in-law Russell Scott; sister-in-law Leota DeVoe and nephew Jack Moore.

French, Joyce Marie Thomas -
Joyce Marie (Thomas) French was born June 22, 1944 in Illinois City, Illinois, to Ellis Thomas and Helen (O'Haver) Thomas. Joyce entered into peaceful rest on February 21, 2018 at The Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center in Bedford, Iowa. 

Joyce grew up in the Blockton area and attended school there. In 1960 Joyce was united in marriage to Roy Eugene French. To this union they were blessed with three children, Lori, Karen and Kenny.

Joyce became an LPN and worked a number of years at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center. Joyce also sold AVON products through the years. Following that she and Roy managed the Bristol Manor in Maryville, Missouri for 17 years until their retirement.

Joyce enjoyed many hobbies including, cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, reading, harassing her grandkids about why they didn't root for the Chiefs, having coffee with the gang on Main Street, watching "Wheel of Fortune" every night at 6:30 and loving her children and grandchildren everyway possible. Joyce also had a "sweet tooth." Her favorite treat to satisfy this was a Strawberry Shortcake from the Junction Cafe. Joyce was a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and nurse to all that knew her. 

Left to cherish Joyce's memory are daughters Lori French and Karen (Chris) Cline and son Kenny (Tisha) French; grandchildren Colby and Chris (Nicki) Lock, Dylon (Hailee) French, Jacob and Carlie French; great-grandchildren Carson, Jayla, Cora and Quinn Lock; brother Charles (Connie) Thomas and sister Frances (Mike) Murphy.

Preceding her in death are her parents, grandson Grant Ellis French and close family friend Ron Sales "Pickle."

Visitation for Joyce Marie French will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2018 from 2-5 PM. There will be a private family burial at Fairview Cemetery at a later date. The Cummings Family Funeral Home of Bedford was entrusted with the arrangements for Mrs. French.

Gray, Ferris - Celebration of Life Funeral Services for Farris Gray, age 87, of Bedford Iowa, who passed away in Maryville, Missouri January 24, 2018, will be held Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Bedford United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held at the Cummings Family Funeral Home on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 3 to 7 PM. Interment with military rites will be held at the Hopkins Cemetery.

Everell Farris Gray was born on February 6, 1930 to Carl and Helen Burch Gray. Farris was born on a farm northeast of Hopkins, Missouri while his brother Donovan was at school. The attending midwife had told Donovan that he would have a baby brother or sister when he arrived home from school. Farris attended a one-room school house where his teacher suggested to his parents that he take both the first and second grade during the same year. At that time, in rural schools seventh grade and eighth grade classes were offered on an every-other-year rotation. For Farris and his other grademate, doing two years in one allowed them to take seventh grade and eighth grade in succession and to graduate from Bedford High School at 16 years of age. Farris was always interested in electricity, science and mathematics. As a high school student in route to class, Farris supported his family’s turkey farm by delivering live turkeys in burlap bags to women in Bedford who planned to serve the birds for holiday meals. 

Farris attended the Wray Memorial Methodist Church in Hopkins where he met Patsy Joan Thompson at youth group. Farris asked Patsy to go for a date with him, but she refused stating she “was too young”. 

As a solider in the Army, Farris served in the Korean Conflict in reconnaissance. Patsy’s mother suggested to her that she write to that “young serviceman” stationed in Korea. Through their letter exchanges a relationship developed. Farris married Patsy on March 7, 1954. He and Patsy actively were engaged in livestock and row crop farming in the Bedford area for over 50 years. Farris took care of the land, actively using conservation practices and being among the first in the area to use no-tillage methods. Because of his effective farm innovation and management, Farris was featured as a Master Farmer by Wallace’s Farmer in 1977. Several young men worked with Farris over the years, and he valued the opportunity to work side-by-side with each one.

When President Jimmy Carter was seeking to learn about agriculture in Iowa, Farris was one of seven farmers who met with President Carter during a visit to Iowa. During the farm crisis of the 1980s, Farris’ expertise was valued through his testimonies to the agriculture committee of the United States Congress in regard to the farm bill. Secretary of Agriculture Bob Berglund visited the Gray farm in 1980. For a few years, in addition to his farming interests, Farris worked as a Pesticide Investigator for the state of Iowa.

As a community member, Farris served on many boards: Rural Community Development, Southern Iowa Council of Governments, Taylor County Extension Council, Bedford Community School Board, Rural Water, Pork Producers, and numerous committees of the Bedford United Methodist Church. Most recently Farris served on the board of the Taylor County Historical Museum. 

Farris and Patsy were parents to two daughters, Linda Gray Smith and Nancy Joan Langguth. Farris and Patsy also hosted an American Field Service student from South Africa, Gillian Shellard Haiden. Farris wanted his daughters to have opportunities that he did not have; he made it possible for his daughters to study music with fine teachers, participate in many aspects of the 4-H program, and obtain college degrees.

After moving to Bedford in 2002, Farris and Patsy enjoyed wintering in Tucson, Arizona. After Patsy’s death in 2011, Farris continued to spend 3 months in the warm Arizona sunshine with friends they made in the Voyager Park. Linda drove Farris to Arizona, and Nancy drove Farris home from Arizona; they became good travel companions.

Farris could be described as being humble and kind with a gentle smile. He enjoyed friends of all ages in many communities. Even before social media (which he embraced and enjoyed), Farris established a solid social network knowing how each individual connected with others. He was always interested in others, and in fact, talking with others seems to have been his hobby. He cherished the times he was able to spend with family and enjoyed watching the great -grandchildren in church and school programs.

Surviving Farris is his sister-in-law Kathyrn Gray of Excelsior Springs, MO; daughters Linda Gray Smith and husband Kenneth of Maryville, MO and Nancy Langguth and husband Brad of Iowa City, IA; grandchildren Kirk and wife Susie Smith, children Cora, Sam, and Josie of Blockton, IA; Erin Parks and son Micah of West Des Moines, IA; Erica Smith of Kansas City, MO; Kathryn and husband Bryan Swinbank of North Liberty, IA; and Anne Langguth and husband Michael Ott, sons Quincy and Ryan of Chicago, IL. Farris is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

Preceding Farris in death are his wife Patsy, his parents, Carl and Helen Gray, and his brother Donovan

Hale, Charles Edward - Charles Edward Hale Jr. was born August 8, 1934 at Bedford to Charles Sr. and Cecile (Morris) Hale. He went home to be with the Lord February 8, 2018 being 83 years and 6 months of age.

He attended grade and high school at Bedford, graduating with the class of 1952. During his junior year of high school he was employed by the Bedford Times-Press as a printer and photographer.

In December of 1956 he was inducted in the US Army, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, serving until 1958 with the 1st L&L Co.

Following his discharge, he resumed his work at the Times-Press until September 1970 when he went into partnership with Ames Polston and purchased the Gambles Hardware Store. When Gambles went out of business in 1976 the store went independent and was named The Home Store. He remained at the store until 2011 when he sold the building and went into retirement.

Charles was a member of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce during the 1980's, 1990's and early 2000's serving as Treasure for 12 years. He was serving as Treasure in 1992 and 2003 when RAGBRAI made overnight stops in Bedford.
He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed gardening, both evidenced by the inventory of fishing supplies and garden seed he kept available at his store.

His survivors include his Sister-in-law Elaine Hale of Maryville, MO, Nieces; Rebecca (Quintin) Schwarz, Waukegan, IL, Nancy (Ron) Tribolet, Humble, TX, Pamela (Leonard) Browne, Bedford, IA, Claire (Tom) Sawyer, Bedford, IA, Mary (Bill) Everhart, Williamsburg, IA, Shirley (Mike) Merritt, Van Meter, IA, Sherri Hale, Olatha, KS. A nephew, Bob (Marilyn) Timberlake, Auburn, KS. Numerous Great and Great, Great Nieces and Nephews.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, his twin Brother Bill Hale, two half-sisters; Luella Straight and Helen Ruth Timberlake and a Nephew Andrew Hale.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Taylor County Historical Museum

Kale Funeral Home, 301 S. Main Street, Osceola, Ia, 50213

Elizabeth "Beth" Ellen (Hesse) Hamilton, 63, went to be with her Lord on Saturday, December 2, 2017 after a three year battle with cancer. She was born on August 30, 1954 in Three Rivers, MI to her parents, Bill and Mary (Von Bergen) Hesse.
In 1980 she married Paul Hamilton of Bedford, Iowa. She had three children and lived in Bedford, IA; Avoca, NE; Elmo, MO; and Goshen, IN. In all these places, she was well known for her sense of humor, signature laugh, love for the Lord, church drama productions, painting/wallpapering skills, saying "you old silly," and telling her wide-mouthed frog joke. Ha! She loved many and had a way of letting people know that they were wanted and welcomed. For us, her family, we treasure the family traditions she set, the way she rolled her eyes when Dad teased her or called her "honey bunny," her three kisses on our cheeks while saying "I love you sweetie heart," and the way she laughed with us. While we miss her terribly, we praise the Lord she is pain-free and we have no doubt she is in heaven. She had a relationship with God from a young age and we can still picture her sitting in her favorite spot to read her Bible each day.
She is survived by her husband Paul of Goshen; son Luke of New York; daughters, Heidi (Ben) King of Illinois and Heath (Travis) Bontrager of Goshen; seven grandchildren: Avery, Josiah, Lincoln, Abigail, Blythe, Madison and Miles; her mother, Mary Hesse of Elkhart; and sisters, Becky (Steve) Aldridge of Elkhart and Ruth (Joe) Bowerman of Goshen.
Preceding her in death was her dad, Rev. Bill Hesse and her aunt, Norma Snyder.

Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. on both Monday, December 4, 2017 and Tuesday, December 5, 2017 and a 10 a.m. funeral service will be Wednesday, December 6,2017 all at Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church, 61115 SR 15, Goshen, IN 46528. Pastor Ron Diener, Pastor Harold Knight and Pastor Matt Maloney will be officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be sent to Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret Funeral Home (311 S. Main St., Goshen, IN 46526) to go toward Discovery Ministries (this is Beth's niece, Leah Fuller's ministry for the past several years). Online condolences may be sent at www. rrefh.com

Harris, Brandon, 27 Nov 1988 - 10 Feb 2018 -

Brandon Harris, age 29, of New Market, Iowa, entered into peace Saturday, February 10, 2018 in Clarinda, Iowa. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 17, 2018 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Russ Clark officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2018 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be in Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

Brandon Cole Harris was born on November 27, 1988, in Clarinda, Iowa to Vicki Brown and Allen Harris. His school years were spent attending the Clarinda Schools and graduating from Clarinda High School in 2007. He had worked at AKS Corporation in Clarinda and American Hydraulics in Red Oak, Iowa. Most recently Brandon worked at NSK Corporation, Clarinda, Iowa. 

At an early age, Brandon was baptized by one of his grandfathers, Loren Daly. He was an avid bowler throughout his elementary and high school years.

To say Brandon was an Iowa Hawkeye Fan does not begin to express the devotion he had for them. He was also a huge Pittsburgh Steelers Fan, as well as being devoted to the Chicago Cubs.

He loved discussing politics although some might call it “arguing”. Anyone who knew him was aware he was a staunch Republican. Brandon was an excellent cook. His specialty was at the barbeque grill. Music played an important part in his life. He enjoyed all genres of music. 

Brandon loved grocery shopping. He could spend two hours comparing and price matching to get the best deals. He would spend countless hours watching episodes of Law and Order. He had also been in the process of remodeling his home. 

One of Brandon’s greatest joys was his beloved Boxer dogs, Natty and Fatty. He enjoyed many years with Natty’s mom, Sadie.

Brandon was preceded in death by his father, Al Harris, paternal grandmother, Alene Harris, maternal grandfather, Marvin Brown, and special friends, Rosie and Dick Burton. Also preceding him in death are Erma and Loren Daly who greatly impacted Brandon’s formative years.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Hayden; mother, Vicki Brown of Clarinda, Iowa (Larry Stamps of Gravity, Iowa); grandmother, Georgia Brown of Clarinda, Iowa; sisters, Malena Sump of Rockwell City, Iowa, Charity (Doug) Andrews of Omaha, Nebraska and Ginger (Jason) Mohr of Waterloo, Iowa and brother Brian Harris of Texas; nieces and nephews, Miranda (Tyler) Fistler and Nora, Tyler Sump, Ryan Sump and Delaney Mohr

Hawk, Robert Joseph - Memorial Celebration of Life Services for Robert Hawk, age 58, of Lenox, who passed away Monday, December 25, 2017 will be held Thursday, December 28, 2017 at 7:00 PM at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Robert Joseph Hawk was born October 17, 1959, in St. Joseph, Missouri the son of Darrell Hawk and Alberta (Smith) Hawk. Although Darrell did not raise Robert, his mother was later married to Bob Carr, and Robert always felt Bob was his father. Robert grew up in the Kansas City, Kansas area attending school, graduating from Harmon High School with the Class of 1978. After graduation, Robert worked at a filling station in Kansas City. He began his career of installing and repairing garage doors. Because of health reasons, Robert retired from this in 2002.
On April 21, 1995, he was united in marriage to Nola Feezell in Kansas City. Together, with her children, Jodie and Jackie, they made their home in Kansas City until moving to Lenox, Iowa in 2006. Robert enjoyed yard work, riding his bicycle, working in his garage and fishing when time allowed. 
Left to cherish Robert’s memory is his loving wife Nola Hawk of Lenox, Iowa; two children, Jodie Perkins and Crystal Joyce of Corning, Iowa; Jackie Perkins of Lenox, Iowa; his mother, Alberta Carr of Polo, Missouri; Shanette Chaney of Lenox, Iowa; two grandchildren, Jodie Perkins and Rubiann Perkins, both of Lenox, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Robert in death are his maternal and paternal grandparents; his father Bob Carr

Everly Faye Hulet, 2 months old, passed away Saturday, November 18, 2017.
She was born August 29, 2017 the daughter of Andrew and Mandy (Mullen) Hulet.
She was preceded in death by her maternal great grandparents, Gerald and Linda Mullen, and paternal great grandparents, Marjorie Hulet and J.C. Teel.
She is survived by her parents, Andrew and Mandy Hulet and sister, Addley Hulet, all of the home; maternal grandmother, Teri Mullen, Bethany, MO; paternal grandparents, Randy and Kristie Hulet, McFall, MO; paternal great grandfather, Dale Hulet, King City, MO; paternal great grandparents, Lanny and Peg Searcy, Pattonsburg, MO; aunt and uncle, Billy and Caroline Kerns, Holt, MO; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 25 at Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, MO. Burial will follow in McFall Cemetery, McFall, MO. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Children's Mercy Hospital in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, MO 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome .com

King, Arlene - Funeral Services for Arlene King, age 96, of Bedford, who passed away Monday, December 18, 2017 at Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center will be held Saturday, December 23, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment will be held at the Memory Cemetery in New Market, Iowa.

Florence Arlene (Keller) King was born October 10, 1921, in Atlantic, Iowa the daughter of Richard Keller and Helen (Campbell) Keller. She grew up in Atlantic attending school, graduating from Atlantic High School. On November 23, 1940, Arlene was united in marriage to Ross King in Maryville Missouri. To this union two children, Barbara Jean and David Ross were born.

After Ross and Arlene were married they began a lifelong partnership of farming. Together they worked on the farm and raised their family. Arlene was a wonderful gardener and always had a huge garden and would can much of it to have the rest of the year. Arlene also raised a large number of chickens. She was famous for her "Sunday Fried Chicken" among other wonderful dishes, including Roast Beef, Meat Loaf, Pies and Christmas Candies. Arlene was also a wonderful seamstress, a skill she honed as a child. Being one of the oldest of 9 children she helped make the clothing for her younger siblings. Arlene made much of the clothing for her children and grandchildren through the years even making her son David a 3-piece suit. Arlene was also a 4-H leader when her children were younger. 

Arlene's had many hobbies and skills through the years but her greatest joy was her family. She was always there for them for love and guidance. Upon the passing of her daughter Barbara, Arlene raised her daughters, Ginny and Jackie to adulthood. No matter who you were in the family Arlene was always there for you. She so enjoyed her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren and loved to spend time with them. 

Left to cherish Arlenes’s memory is her son, David King; grandchildren, Ginny Couts, Jackie Smith, Billy Murphy (Melissa), Steve King (Maria), Mick King (Dawn), and Susie King (James); 15 great-grandchildren; 20 great-great-grandchildren; sisters Jeannie Graham, Mary Combs, Loleta Spring and Judy Sparks along with many others nieces, nephews, family and friends. 

Preceding Arlene in death are her husband Ross; daughter, Barbara; parents, Richard and Helen; grandson Jay Murphy; brothers Jack and Jim Keller and sisters Betty Clayton and Ruth Keller

Klakken, Wallace "Wally" E - Wallace Earl Klakken, 80 years old of Gravity Iowa, died on Tuesday, December 19th at Clarinda Regional Health Center. He was born April 26th, 1937 in Gravity Iowa to Marvin and Nova (Beery) Klakken. He was raised to adulthood from the age of 3 by his maternal grandparents A.C. and Jessie Beery. Wallace attended school in Gravity, Iowa and graduated with the class of 1956. On November 10th, 1961, he married Geraldine Marie Williams in Nebraska City, Nebraska and they were married for 56 years. 

Their first year of marriage they lived with his grandmother Beery and in 1962 the couple moved to Coin, Iowa where they raised Hereford cattle and farmed. In 1967 they moved back to Gravity and continued to farm. 

Upon Wallace’s high school graduation from Gravity High School in 1956, he joined the National Guard and served five years until his honorable discharge in 1961. Wallace was an agriculturist and farmer during much of his life. He was also employed for Wilson Food Company for 20 years until he retired in 1988. Wallace was a member of the Sunlight Masonic Lodge in Gravity and was a member for many years and served as the Master of the lodge as well. He then became a member of the Bedford Masonic Lodge Taylor 156. Wallace was an active member of Gravity Christian Church as a board member, Sunday school teacher and singer. Wallace also enjoyed photography through the years. His greatest hobby was his family. Wallace enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren's events and was always there to support them. 

Wallace was preceded in death by his parents; brother David Klakken; sisters Althea Treflz, Arlene Jones & Karen Sachow. 

Wallace Klakken is survived in life by his wife Geraldine, of Bedford; children Cheryl & Kevin Adkins of Elmo, Terresa & Rob Cain of Maryville and Marvin & Shelly Klakken of Kinston N.C.; brother Dennis and Carole Klakken of Hanna, WY; grandchildren Kassie and Ty Sapp, Andrew & Amy Davidson, Brandie Cain and Brice Mildward, Whitney & Landon Martin, Tanner Adkins, Samantha Klakken, Faith Adkins and Steven Klakken; along with eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews

Cummings Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa

Majors, Bruce - Bruce passed away at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab center Thursday morning. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Bruce Dale Majors was born October 4, 1952, in Corning, Iowa to Lyle Vernon Majors and Wilma Elizabeth (Nowels) Majors. Bruce married Joyce Miller June 28, 1974. Two children were born to this blessed union, Jamie and Jarrod. 

Bruce works for many years at Michaels Foods in Lenox before retiring. Bruce also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family. On occasion he would get lost in the timber and get teased by his kids about being the last one out! He was also an avid New York Yankees fan! 

To all who crossed paths with Bruce during his 65 years on this earth, please know your kindness, friendship and love were and always will be greatly appreciated. To honor Bruce's loving spirit, please consider giving an extra smile or hug to someone in your life today. Bruce was a wonderful husband, father, Papa, son, brother, cousin, father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, son-in-law, neighbor, friend and so much more. Thanks for just being you. 

Bruce is survived by his wife Joyce; sons Jamie (Mistie) Majors, Jarrod Majors, and grandchildren MaKenna, Jesse and Miranda. 

A Celebration of Life Memorial service will be held at a later date

Marxen, Stephen Worthy - Funeral Celebration of Life Services for Stephen Marxen, age 68, of Lenox, who passed away Saturday, February 10, 2018 at his home will be held Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 11:00 AM at the Lenox Community Center. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Stephen Worthy Marxen, known as Worthy to his friends, was born September 14, 1949 to Donald Leroy and Norma Ruth (Brown) Marxen in Creston, Iowa. From complications of ALS, he passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2018 in his home. He had a younger sister Barbara Jean and two younger brothers Robert Allen and Ralph Dean. 

He went to Bridgewater-Fontanelle grade schools and then when the family moved to Creston in 1964 he attended Creston Jr. High graduating Creston High School with the class of 1967. He entered the US Army in 1969 and served a tour in Vietnam. His tour was cut short due to injury and he returned home in 1971 when he met and married Betty Lou Murdock. They had three children Rebecca Jane, Clinton Worthy, and Brenda Ruth. He farmed in the Lenox community until 1990 and then worked at Taylor Ridge Estates until 2012. Steve enjoyed horseback riding, motorcycle trips, camping, spending times with family, friends, Big Bad Bravo brothers, and Thursdays coffee group. 

Survivors are; his wife Betty, daughter Becky, her spouse Mike, and children Zach, Jace, and Jocelyn, Claire, Anna, Jacob, Cooper, and their mother Leah, Brenda, her spouse, Tim, and children Christopher and Nicole, his brother Ralph, and other loving family members. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara , brother Robert, and son Clint

Matthews, William Calvin - Funeral Services for Calvin Matthews, age 88, will be held Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at 11 AM at the Cummings Family Funeral Home. Interment with military rites accorded by the American Legion Post 164 will follow the service at Fairview Cemetery.

William Calvin Matthews was born March 22, 1929 in Bethel Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania to William Frederick and Margaret (Douglass) Matthews. He grew up attending country schools and graduated from Trinity High School, Washington, PA in 1947. After high school he worked on the family farm in Eighty-Four, PA with his father and brother, David. His brother and he also did local trucking, hauling coal and milk. Calvin was drafted and served in the United States Army from 1951-1953, most of that time being stationed in Panama. Upon being honorably discharged, he returned home and continued to farm. 

As a young man, Calvin enjoyed trapping and hunting. In an autobiography he wrote as a sophomore in high school, he said his dream would be to move to British Columbia, Canada to become a outdoors sportsman and make a living from his hobby. Another choice for his future was “to settle down with some good woman who would like to be a farmer’s wife." 

So Plan B it was! He met a good woman, Dorothy Seighman, at a dance and they were married on April 18, 1955. To this union three daughters were born, Joyce Eileen, Marsha Faye and Margaret (Peggy) Belle. They settled on a farm in Eighty-four, PA for the next 20 years. In 1975, the family moved to a farm south of Bedford, IA. 

Calvin’s family was the center of his life. Besides farming, Calvin always had a “side job” to help provide for them. He was proud of his children and was interested in what his grandchildren were doing. He especially enjoyed having great-grandchildren—his face would light up when he talked about them or saw them. He enjoyed watching football and was an avid Maryville Spoofhound (attending two championship games in St. Louis to watch his grandsons play) , Northwest Missouri State University Bearcat and Dallas Cowboy fan for many years .

He thought of others first and taught his family, by example, how to take care of family. Calvin will always be remembered as a humble and kind man with an incredible work ethic.
Calvin was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ and was a man of strong faith and love in the Lord.

Left to cherish Calvin’s memory are his daughters, Joyce Mahl (Bob) of Council Bluffs, IA, Marsha Maudlin (Rick) of Maryville, MO, and Peggy Ewart (Bill) of Bedford, IA, grandchildren, Jillian Mahl (fiancé, Benjamin Peet), Lee Boruch ( Joshua), Ciara Burns (Jarrold), Wyatt Maudlin (girlfriend, Natasha Robison), Paden Maudlin ( girlfriend, Krista Coffey) , Kerra Strong (Zach) and Zach Siefering (Colleen), and great-grandchildren, Jaxson Bridger Burns, Sydney Katherine Strong and Courtney Eliza Strong, and many extended family members and friends.

Preceding Calvin in death was his beloved wife, Dorothy; parents, William and Margaret Matthews; two sisters, Mary Cabeen and Martha Matthews; a brother, David Matthews and a great granddaughter, Mallory Belle Strong

Mellott, Francis Boyd - Celebration of Life Funeral Services for Francis Boyd Mellott, age 92, of Bedford, will be held on Monday, February 19, 2018 at 11:00 am. The Cummings Family Funeral Home of Bedford was entrusted with the arrangements for Mr. Mellott.

Francis Boyd Mellott was born January 28, 1926 in rural Montgomery CO. north of Red Oak to Frank Raymond Mellott and Vera Ellen (Jones) Mellott.
He enlisted in the Navel Air Corps in 1944 and was stationed at many bases in the U.S. He worked in the Mojave Desert on the development of the jet engine. 
In 1946 he was united in marriage to Marjorie Ila McKinney. They shared 71 happy years together. To this union was born four children.

Boyd farmed most of his adult life. He joined Charles Dukes in a carpentry business in 1970, building several houses in Bedford. He was leader of the 102-HC Boys 4-H club, and was a director of the Bedford National Bank, a member of the FHA Board, a member of the Bedford United Methodist Church holding several chairmanships. He and Marjorie enjoyed wintering in Texas for 24 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Ardeth and Doyal, and sister, June.
Boyd is survived by his wife, Marjorie, of the home; children Catherine (Russ) Bohm of Pleasant Valley, MO, Kevin (Susan) Mellott of Hillsboro, OR, Chris (Jim) Lawson of Krum, TX, and Stephanie (Don) Shields of Maryville, MO; grandchildren Tammy (Roger) Weeks, Nick Moffet, Nichole Tufty, Michael (Andrea) Mellott, Jeremy DeVoe, Beth DeVoe, Dakota Shields, and Derrick Shields, great-grandchildren Kyle (Brielle) Barton, Cory Barton, Justin Mellott, Hayden DeVoe, Patrick Mellott, Briley Samples, Myles DeVoe, Legend Vaughn, Leila Vaughn.

Moore, Vera E. Cozad - Vera Moore, age 84, of New Market, Iowa, entered into peace Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa. Graveside services will be held 3:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2018 at Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa with Reverend Tim Maxa officiating. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Vera Evelyn Moore was born October 9, 1933 to Edson E. Cozad and Adrion (Miller) Cozad in Atchison County, Missouri. Vera’s mother died of scarlet fever when Vera was three. She was raised by her Aunt Edna Smith. She lived several different places in Northwest Missouri and Western Nebraska. She attended school in Elmo and Scotts Bluff and attained her G.E.D. Vera met Roy “Dean” Moore at the skating rink in Clarinda, Iowa. The couple was married January 24, 1954 at the New Market Methodist Church. They were blessed with five children; David, Danny, Denny, Adrion and Mary Kay. 

Prior to her marriage, Vera worked at the MHI for several years. Raising her five children was her primary occupation for many years. In 1990, Vera purchased a restaurant in Lenox, Iowa and named it Vera’s Office. She put Dean to work cooking at the restaurant where he developed the breaded loin sandwich that the restaurant soon became noted for. She owned and operated the restaurant for twenty years, retiring when she was 76. She loved her patrons and friends and was quite the entertainer, sharing stories and telling jokes. In her retirement, she enjoyed driving her golf cart in New Market and was never afraid to share her political views at the FMTC Convenience Store. Her family was her top priority; loved her kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren and took great pride in family dinners. She also loved her companion dog, Sporty.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents; aunt, Edna Smith; husband, Dean Moore; great grandson, Jackson Reed Riddle; uncle, Charles Miller.

Left to cherish her memory and all the wonderful stories are her children, David Moore and wife Shirley of Shenandoah, Iowa, Danny Moore of Clarinda, Iowa, Denny Moore of Corning, Iowa, Adrion Gruber and husband Sam of Clarinda, Iowa and Mary Kay Hitt and husband Jesse of Clarinda, Iowa; grandchildren, Megan, Amanda, Kristel, Paul, J. D., Baylee, Matt, Ryan, April, Brian, Lindsay, Melody and Sarah; many great grandchildren; other relatives and many, many friends

Patricia (Irish) Lynn Ratteree, 63, of Belton, MO passed away January 21, 2018 in Kansas City, MO. Donations may be made to St. Jude's, Hope House, or Wayside Waifs in honor of Trish.
Patricia was born April 20, 1954 in Bedford, IA to Edward (Junior) and Anna Lee (Tucker) Spencer. She was a mother, grandmother and teacher to many in the community.
She was preceded in death by her parents and son, Matthew.
Patricia is survived by six children, Kristapher, Russell, Adam, Jennifer, Heather and Ashley; six grandchildren; siblings Vicki Spencer, Ed Spencer and Rick Spencer; and one sister-in-law, Carol Spencer.
Condolences may be made at McGilley & George Funeral Home, 611 Chestnut, Belton, MO.

Rhoades, Robert William - Funeral Celebration of Life Services for Bob Rhoades, age 97 of Lenox, who passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Clearview Home in Clearfield will be held Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11:00 AM at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox. Interment with military rites accorded by the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 and Iowa National Honor Guard will be held in the West Cemetery in Lenox.

Robert William Rhoades was born November 6, 1920, on the family farm northeast of Lenox in Adams County, Iowa. He was the only son of Admiral Roy (Merl) Rhoades and Ruth Anna (Tripp) Rhoades, three sisters would join the family, Florence, Frances and Jeanne. He grew up attending school in Lenox, graduating with the Class of 1938. After graduation, Bob farmed alongside his father until he entered the United States Army in 1944. He served with the 724th Military Police Battalion in Honolulu, Hawaii until his discharge in 1946. Robert felt very privileged to participate in the first Honor Flight to our Nation's Capital out of Des Moines.

Robert was a life-long farmer and cattleman in both Taylor and Adams Counties. He enjoyed tending his herds and tilling the fields on the family farm that had been established in 1903. He was a 72 year member of the Parkinson American Legion in Lenox, and in 1996, he was honored by the Lenox Rotary Club as 'Citizen of the Year'. He has also been honored as a 50 year member of the Lenox Stock & Saddle Club.

In 1985, Bob was united in marriage to Pat Taylor. His family feels that she was a gift, not only for their uncle Bob, but for the entire family. After his retirement from farming in 2003, the couple moved to Lenox. Throughout his life, Bob enjoyed bowling for over 44 years, volunteering with hospice and continuing his commitment to the Lenox Stock & Saddle Club. He was a life-long Presbyterian, first at Prairie Star and then Lenox United Presbyterian where he served as Trustee and an Elder for many years.

Left to cherish Bob's memory is his loving wife Pat Rhoades of Lenox, Iowa; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Bob in death are his parents A.R. (Merl) and Ruth Anna Rhoades; and three sisters, Florence Garrick, Frances Moyle and Jeanne Ostrem

Ritchie, Kevin Kyle - Visitation for Kevin Ritchie, age 61 of Bedford, who passed away Monday, January 22, 2018 at his home will be held Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Cummings Family Funeral Home in Bedford from 1:00 to 3:00 PM with the family greeting friends. A private family interment will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Kevin's brother Alan Ritchie at the Ritchie Funeral Home where we 'Celebrate Life'.

Kevin Kyle Ritchie was born September 14, 1956 in Des Moines, Iowa to Rodger and Loretta (Barnett) Ritchie. As a child Kevin grew up in small towns around Iowa where his father was a teacher and coach, including Cedar, Gilmore City, Aurelia, Lone Rock, Eldridge, and Bedford. He attended kindergarten in Kansas City while his father was called up to the Air Force Reserves. 

Kevin started high school in Eldridge at the North Scott school where he played basketball, ran track, and participated in drama. The family moved to Bedford in 1972 when Kevin was a junior, and he was happy to play varsity basketball for Coach Gene Hannon. He met his wife Debra (Morehouse-Burns) at Bedford and they were married in 1975 at the Hamilton-Memorial Missionary Church. Kevin and Deb attended college at William Penn and the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls where they lived in married student housing on campus. He majored in education to teach social studies and coach sports and later returned to UNI to become a guidance counselor. 

Kevin’s first job was in Ringsted, Iowa where he coached all of the sports offered at the time. While at Ringsted, their daughter Jill was born in 1979. He taught and coached in Corwith-Wesley where Beth was born in 1981, moving on to other towns including Kanawha, New Market, Bedford, Aurelia, and Exira where Jeff was born in 1986. Finally, the family moved back to Bedford in 1994, where they have lived the past 24 years. 

Kevin had a lifelong attachment to music, winning music trivia contests wherever he went and never hesitating to add a new CD to his massive collection. Kevin was also an avid moviegoer and always looked forward to seeing a new show. After his first daughter was born he ran both the movie theater and drive-in theater in Boone, Iowa.

Besides teaching and coaching, Kevin enjoyed being owner of the Godfather’s Pizza in Atlantic, Iowa, and later helping to establish the Godfather’s/Bedford County Store. Always the entrepreneur, he also co-owned Bulldog Sports Cards with his friend Donnie Weed.
Among Kevin’s favorite memories was coaching junior high track and field at Bedford, helping the team to win every meet for two years straight and to set records that still stand today. He enjoyed running the fast break with his AAU basketball teams and spending every Saturday at a new tournament. He also enjoyed officiating all sports, and could be seen at football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball games, as well as the starting line of track meets. 

Kevin went on to work as a sports reporter for the Bedford Times Press, a school bus driver for the Bedford School, and a driver for the Southern Iowa Trolley. 

As much as Kevin was a sports person, he was even more of a kid person, and there was nothing he looked forward to more than spending time with his grandchildren, Colton and Mayson Sprague, and Hudson Foreman, and more recently his youngest grandchildren Tripp Merrill and Hannah and Luke Ritchie. Kevin always remembered traveling to Disney World in Florida with his kids and grandkids on a family vacation and was always ready to play a game or be silly with his grandkids. 

Kevin’s commitment to sports took him all the way through June when he first realized something was wrong while umpiring a softball game. Only the impact of having cancer could take Kevin away from his involvement in sports and the community, and one of his regrets was that he would be unable to watch the 2017-18 basketball season. He attended every state track, football, and basketball state tournament in his entire adult life, never missing the opportunity to spend an entire week watching the best teams in Iowa compete. 
Following his diagnosis he was able to spend time living in Omaha with his daughter Beth Merrill and her family, bringing him closer to all his children and grandchildren who all live nearby. After several intensive hospital stays, Kevin was able to spend Christmas with his wife, all three kids, and each and every grandkid. He returned to Bedford mid-January and passed away peacefully at home one week later on January 22 surrounded by family.
Preceding Kevin in death are his sister Sara Ritchie, his maternal grandparents Howard and Sylvia Barnett and his paternal grandparents Donald and Pearl Ritchie. 

Kevin is remembered and loved by wife Debra and parents Rodger and Loretta Ritchie of Bedford, daughter Jill Ford and her husband Eric with grandchildren Colton and Mayson Sprague, daughter Beth Merrill and her husband Tim with grandchildren Hudson Foreman and Tripp Merrill, son Jeff Ritchie and wife Molly with grandchildren Hannah and Luke Ritchie, brother Alan Ritchie and sister Molly Stewart

Sheffield, Eleanor Jane - 15 Oct 1929 - 22 Dec 2017

Eleanor Jane (Townsend) Sheffield was born 10/15/1929 to Earl Vincent “Fritz” and Thelma Louise (Sutton) Townsend in Corning, IA. She attended school in Corning and Pacific Junction, IA, graduating with the Corning High School class of 1948. 

She was united in marriage to Richard B. Sheffield, Sr. on March 5, 1950 at the Federated Church in Corning, IA. This marriage was blessed with 8 children: Douglas Roger, Thomas Scott, Susan Elaine, Richard Bennett, Jr., Gregory Lynn, Teresa Jean, Jeffrey LeRoy, and Timothy Lee. They resided in Prescott, IA until August of 1964 when they moved to Bedford, IA, where she lived until her death.

Eleanor returned to school in 1983 at the age of 54 to get her nursing degree. She worked at Parkdale Manor, Maryville, Mo, and Clarinda Hospital, Clarinda, IA, until she retired in the late 1990s. She spent many years working at the Shehan Department Store and Bedford Nursing Home as an aide. 

She spent many years serving the public as an EMT and Ambulance Director for the Bedford Ambulance Service. She also served as a Matura Board Member from 2001 until her death.
Eleanor was a lifetime member of Eastern Star. She was a long-time member of the Bedford United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women. She was also a long time member of the Bedford American Legion Auxiliary.

After losing the love of her life, Dick, in 1973, she devoted her life to raising her 8 children and being a huge support to anyone who needed a helping hand. Most of her free time was spent attending her children’s, grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s sporting events and activities.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick; her daughter-in-law, Joni; brothers, Charles, Raymond and Harold; and sisters-in-law, Claudette (Charles) and Deloris (Raymond).

Left to cherish her memory is Doug (Julie), Winterset, IA; Scott (Diane), Gravity, IA; Susan (Dan) Fowler, Harlan, IA; Rick (Carol), Bellevue, NE; Greg (Kay Lynne), Bedford, IA; Teresa (Mike) Risser, Bedford, IA; Jeff (Keri), Bedford, IA; and Tim, Bedford, IA; 25 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren + 2 on the way; sisters, Norma Hewitt, Oskaloosa, IA, and Roberta (Russell) Steele, Des Moines, IA; sisters-in-law, Lois Townsend, Bedford, IA, and Rose Townsend, Lakewood, CO; and brother-in-law, Earl Sheffield, Denison, IA; other relatives and friends

Dale was born August 26, 1940 in Woodbine, Iowa to Burt and Marie Smith.   After attending Woodbine High School, he married Shirley Decker and then join the Army to serve in the Vietnam War.  Dale and Shirley had 2 children; Marie and Dale Jr., Billy and Jeanette are from a previous marriage.

Everyone knew Dale as “Granny”.  He liked to ride Harleys, enjoyed auctions, deer hunting, fishing, old western shows (those especially by John Wayne), building anything out of wood, enjoyed playing pool and won several tournaments. Dale enjoyed making people laugh, he loved making his dad’s recipe and having cook outs.  Every year at Christmas time he would request Marie to make him some peanut butter cookies.  They were his favorite.  Dale’s family was his first priority, he loved them dearly and enjoyed spending time with them. 

Dale passed away Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Greater Regional Hospice Home in Creston, Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents and his wife Shirley.

He is survived by his daughters Marie (Byron) Leland of Bedford, IA., Jeanette Massey of Cherryville, MO.; sons Dale Jr (Tammy) Smith of Red Oak, IA, Billy Smith of Cuba MO.; several grand-children and great grandchildren; long-time friends Dorothy Hilzendeger (Tammy Smith’s mother) and Judy from Lenox.

He will be dearly missed.

Visitation with the family of Dale L. Smith Sr, 77 of Lenox, will be held 10 - 11 a.m. Friday, Jan 12 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford followed by graveside 3 p.m. Friday wtih military honors at Woodbine Cemetery, Woodbine, Iowa. Memorials are suggested in Dale's name.

Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Bedford is providing arrangements.

Idle Blossom Larson was born October 18, 1928 to parents Louie Larson and Alisa (Thomas) Larson. She died on December 18, 2017 at the Bedford Specialty Care. Idle was born into a big and loving family including brothers Ivan “Bud”, Joseph, John and Ralph; sisters Leona, Juanita, Beatrice, and Wanda Lillian.

She grew up in Taylor County living in Bedford, Iowa all her life. She attended school in Bedford, Iowa.

On April 6, 1953 she was married to Albert Spencer in Troy, Kansas. To this union one daughter was born, Jolene, on September 4, 1963 to bless their lives. Idle had wanted to be a mother all her life and it finally happened! Albert and Idle shared 51 wonderful years together.

Idle was a caring person, a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother and a hard worker. In their younger days Albert and Idle loved to dance and went to many dances around the area. She loved music and was very active her entire life until the last several years. She loved to garden and put a big garden every year with her husband Albert. Every year you could find her canning, working in her vegetable garden, and tending to her huge flower garden as well as mowing the yard every week. She loved being outside in the sunshine. She also raised dogs and always had a dog around even in later years. Along with a love of dogs she cherished the time she spent with the many birds she and Albert tended to over the years. Idle was a wonderful cook and loved making and baking pies as well as many other things. She loved her family and her animals. Idle had a big heart and she will be missed by many.

Idle was preceded in death by her parents Louie and Alisa; husband Albert; brothers Ivan, Joseph, John, Ralph; and sisters Leona, Juanita, and Beatrice.

Left to cherish her memory is her daughter Jolene; one sister Wanda Hawn; her step daughter Elaine; one sister-in-law Julia Foster; five grandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished loved ones.

Private interment will be at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, provided arrangements. www.WalkerMerrickWolfe.com

Walker, Denzil - Denzil B. Walker, age 94, Grant City, Missouri died Friday, December 22, 2017 at SSM St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, Missouri.

Denzil was born August 22, 1923, in the Victory neighborhood, near Redding, Iowa. He was the son of the late Blaine and Ruby Irene (Martin) Walker.

Denzil attended Victory Grade School, and the Redding Elementary and High School, where he graduated in 1941. He then attended the Johnson Business College in St. Joseph before entering the United States Army. 

Denzil served in the 10th Mountain Division in Europe, seeing combat in Italy. He received both the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star during his enlistment. He was discharged in 1946.

Denzil was united in marriage to Virginia Mae (Lantz) on February 17, 1949. To this union six children were born.

Denzil farmed with his father after returning home from overseas serving his country. After 11 years of
farming, he and Virginia purchased the 169 Night Club which they owned and operated until 1974. 
Later, he served a short time as Chief of Police for the City of Grant City. Denzil also worked as a 
brush crew foreman in Worth County.

He was a member of the Worth County Memorial VFW Post 3123. Denzil had lived in his home until failing health saw him move to the Worth County Convalescent Center in 2012. Some of Denzil’s happiest days were spent on the red bench in front of Dennis’s Grant City Auto Parts Store visiting with all those passing by and watching all sports his grandchildren participated in.

He was preceded in death by his wife Virginia (2001), infant daughter Paula Irene, granddaughter Whitney Walker, sister Wilma Mazur, two brothers Thomas Keith and Kensil Walker, and his son-in-law Tim Novak.

His survivors include: Kyle (Carol) Walker, Lebanon, Missouri, Jennifer (Mark) Terry, Grant City, Janice (Steve) Caldwell, Eldridge, Missouri, Ronnie (Brenda) Walker, Conception Junction, Missouri, Connie Novak, Grant City, 11 beautiful grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren that he adored.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM, Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home in Grant City. The family will receive friends from 11-12 PM Tuesday, prior to the services. Burial will be in the Athelstan Cemetery, Athelstan, Iowa. Graveside Military services will be under the direction of Worth County Memorial VFW Post #3123.

Vane Mitchell Walston, better known as Mitch to his family and friends, entered his eternal Heavenly rest on November 25, 2017. He was born on July 21, 1988 in Culpeper, VA. He is survived by his parents, John and Cheryl (Minor) Walston of Bedford, grandmother Betty Minor of Clarinda, IA, sister
Sonya Courtney and husband Ron of Lincoln, NE, brothers Michael Walston of Camano Island, WA, Paul Walston and wife Molly, of Bedford, Matthew Rowen and wife, Cindy, of Carrolton, MO and his fiance Amanda Jones of Greenville, NY, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins and many friends in New York state, where he was raised.
Mitch was very creative and loved to tinker with computers. He loved locksmithing, a trade he practiced in the Albany, NY and surrounding areas until his passing. Mitch's faith was very important to him and he made a decision for Christ at a very young age. Ever since he was a small child, he loved all animals, attempting to recuse any he found injured. He also loved small children and looked forward to having some of his own. His big dream was to be able to travel someday. He will be greatly missed by the many that loved him. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 9, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Bedford with a lunch at the Bedford American Legion to follow. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation in his name be made to the charity of their choice.

Wilson, Roland Leroy - Graveside Services for Roland Wilson, age 83, will be held Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at 11 AM at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be given in Roland's name. Cummings Family Funeral Home was entrusted with the services of Mr. Wilson.

Roland Leroy Wilson was born July 25, 1934 at home, the first farm house east of Stringtown, Iowa, on Highway 34, to Savannah and Edith (Bramow) Wilson. He peacefully passed away December 2, 2017 in Creston, Iowa. 

Roland grew up in Creston where his father was bookkeeper and later owner of the John Deere store. Roland was quite a little business man as he delivered the Des Moines Tribune to 125 homes daily in 1947. Roland enjoyed music and learned to play the piano starting lessons at about age 9 and continuing until he was 17. He sang in the boy's quartet during high school and also played for church and for weddings.

In 1948 he moved with his family to Bedford, Iowa where his father, Savannah, had purchased the John Deere dealership and in time DeSoto and Plymouth. During high school Roland became interested in building and racing cars at the local fairgrounds. This interest developed a "life style" that he pursued for many years. He raced late model stock cars in the IMCA (International Motor Contest Association.) Roland still holds a record on a track in Kansas that will never be broken! Roland enjoyed mechanics and helped his father farm and worked as a mechanic at the John Deere store. In later years Roland bought his own farm of 520 acres.

Roland was married to Janice Sleep for several years. Although he never had any children he was the favorite uncle of his brother's children: Steve, Lisa, David, Daniel, Celina and great-niece Ashley.

Roland was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Warren in 2015. He is survived by his sister, Myrna Wilson, along with many friends he has known in this community, in Creston, and in his travels. He will be greatly missed