Under the Water Tower Lovilia News

August 30, 2023

Lovilia School Reunion

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 6:50 pm

The reunion was held at the Lovilia Community building on Saturday, August 5th. Forty-four high school alumni attended along with their guests.

They were celebrating three important milestones. One was 54 years of Lovilia High School graduates. Two was the 117th year of the school’s history. Three was the 170th year of the town’s founding.

Two women were honored: Norma Barnes who taught at the Lovilia school for 35 years and just celebrated her 100th Birthday and Marilyn Kraber who served as the city of Lovilia’s clerk for fifteen years as well as handling the reservations for the community building from the time it was built and just retired from that duty this year.

Norma Barnes wore an original basketball warm up jacket in the school’s color: gold. Her daughter had acquired the jacket in the 1960’s when the locker rooms were being cleaned out. Alumni, Ruth Belzer, was tickled to see Norma wearing it. She played basketball when in high school, and Ruth said, ” I probably wore that very jacket!’

Richard Jones was so happy to see a former classmate, Jim Sickler, from California whom he had not seen or even knew his whereabouts. A special chance to catch up with each other’s lives.

Also attending were about 100 persons who grew up in Lovilia, continue to live there, or went a few years to Lovilia elementary school before it closed.

The planning committee wished to thank all the volunteers for preparing the food, decorations, etc. to share Lovilia memories and Lovilia pride.

Miami Lake Receives Funding

The Publicly Owned lakes program administered by Iowa Dept. of Ag and Land Stewardship and the Dept. of Natural Resources will give funding to six public Iowa lakes. The funds are given to protect and improve water quality. The local soil and water conservation districts submitted an application for the funds. The funds are used to improve watersheds. Private landowners are then eligible to receive additional cost-share for practices that improve water quality. This would include cover crops, terraces, grade stabilization structures, water and sediment control basins, and grassed waterways. The amount for Lake Miami conservation will be $47,250. Improved water quality benefits every citizen. We can be grateful for our lake having been chosen.

Adoration on August 15th

St. Peter’s Catholic Church hosted a day of Adoration for all Monroe County Catholics. Mass at 9 am was followed by 14 prayers who spent up to an hour in prayer until the next prayer arrived. Prayers continued until 9pm. This is the day Catholics celebrate the assumption into heaven of the Virgin Mary, body and soul. It was a blessing to have prayers going up for twelve hours for the needs of our world.

Field Day Held at Hogeland Farm

John Hogeland and Beth Hoffman (his wife), live on the long- held family farm just west of Lovilia. They held a field day for a group, Practical Farmers of Iowa, they are members of.

Visitors took a hayride out to the pasture to see what type of plants they were feeding the cattle and then goats when the cows are moved to a new section of pasture. John moves the cattle and fence to keep them in a small area about every two days. This keeps them from overgrazing and getting fresh food frequently. He follows the cows with meat goats in the same way. The goats would be a godsend for any farmer because the love to eat multi flora rose and weeds like iron weed that cattle don’t eat and are invasive. He also has planted natural prairie-plants that will have longer roots, do well in harsh weather, and have shown to prevent soil erosion better than other grasses. John and Beth are not using pesticides or herbicides so they can produce organically. They even quit using fly poison on the cattle and found that after a tough transition period, the natural enemies of flies returned, and the cows did better without the poison and flies were greatly reduced.

Then John grilled beef burgers of their own grassfed cattle. They were so tasty and tender. We also had salad and yellow watermelon they had raised. All tasty. After the meal was a question- and- answer period that helped the guest farmers consider ideas they could use.

John and Beth are marketing their goats at Colfax or Kalona. If you want to order beef from them which is processed at a nearby locker, contact John and Beth at: johnbutcherman@gmail.com or bethaudio@gmail.com. The have some veggies and melons too. Ask how you can buy them. They will be happy to serve you!

John Popson Obit

John passed away on August 16, 2023. He was born in Hiteman, Iowa to John and Irene (Biros) Popson on June 5, 1942. As he grew up, he helped on the family farm and assisted at mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Weller as an altar boy.

He graduated with the Albia high school class of 1960 and then entered the National Guard.

He married Martha Plum on November 18, 1967. They were blessed with four children: Audrey, Andy, Mary, and Tina.

John worked at Massey Ferguson, Knoxville Comm. Schools, and ran his own business, Popson’s Repair Service. He also loved outdoor hobbies, working on vehicles, carpentry work, serving with the Knights of Columbus and Iowa Democrats. Anyone who knew him knows he was an avid story- teller including stories about his youth in Weller and gems of wisdom he had learned over the years.

Surviving him are his wife, his three daughters, grandchildren, and siblings.

Preceding him in death were his parents; son, Andy; three siblings and a brother-in-law.

A mass of Christian burial was held August 28, 2023 at St. Anthony’s in Knoxville. Interment with military honors will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Weller, Iowa at a later date.

May he rest in peace.

New Beary Baby

Wesley and Jenny Beary welcomed a baby girl on August 26, 2023 to their family. She joins a four year old sister. Maternal grandparents are from Wisconsin and paternal grandparents are David and Susan Beary of Lovilia. Welcome to our world!

July 29, 2023

Larry Visser Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 11:55 pm

Larry Gene Visser of Lovilia, Iowa passed away on July 27, 2023. He was the son of Ted and Colleen Visser, born June 3, 1955 in Albia, Iowa.

He married Kamarie Douglas on May 21, 1977 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Albia, Iowa. They were blessed with two Children, Karrie and Seth. Kamarie passed away on May 7, 1996. Larry later married Linda Johnson April 26, 2003 at their home.

Larry worked with his father and grandfather, Carl Visser, in their own trucking business for a few years. Then he worked for the Department of Transportaion until his retirement in 2010. He achieved the rank of Sergeant. He also served on the Monroe County Civil Service Commission.

Larry enjoyed the outdoors: hunting, target practice, grilling, mule and horse rides, riding horseback in parades, and was involved in Monroe County Saddle Club and participated in a Pony Express Ride.

He is survived by his mother, his wife, daughter (Karrie (Dusty) Hutchinson), and son (Seth (Sarah) Visser), and five grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Kamarie, infant brother (Terry), and sister, Chris Toopes.

Visitation will be on Monday, July31, 2023 opening to the public at 3pm and with family present from 5-7pm. at Sinnott Funeral Home, Albia, Iowa.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at Sinnott’s in Albia with Larry Bettis officiating.

Interment will follow at Oak View Cemetery in Albia.

Memorials may be directed to Monroe County Law Enforcement.

May he rest in peace.

New Baby

Cheyenne Smith of Lovilia gave birth to a baby girl last week. Cheyenne is the daughter of Todd See and the Granddaughter of Jean See. Welcome to Lovilia little one!

August 5 School Reunion

Saturday is the all school reunion. If you ever attended school in Lovilia, you are welcome to come visit with other former students. Sign in at the Loviia Community Building after 11am, then eat there, listen to an alumni speech or two and then chat with friends with background old rock music by a DJ. Chat until closing at 4pm. Memory time!!

July 15, 2023

Betty Weldon Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 12:03 am

Betty June Weldon, age 91, passed away on June 30, 2023 at Monroe County Hospital in Albia, Iowa.

Betty was born June 20, 1932 at the family home in Marion County to Cornelius and Hilda (Versteegh) VandenBerg. She was a Lovilia High School graduate.

On July 4, 1952, she married William “Bill” Edgar Weldon Jr. in Unionville, Mo. They were blessed with six children: Sandie, Rhonda, Dee, Doug, Missy, and Lynn. The couple enjoyed 71 years together.

Betty was a homemaker and later a Loviia school cook, school bus driver and caregiver for many people including her grandchildren.

Betty was an animal lover and was a dog breeder. One of her joys was bargain hunting at thrift stores. She was strong in her faith and a willing helper to anyone in need. She cherished her family and time spent with them.

Betty is survived by : her husband, her six children, 12 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Also, her close friend, Lola Ivins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings: Nellie, Judd, Gladys, Josephine, and Norma.

A private family burial was held at the Hamilton Cemetery in Hamilton, Iowa.

May she rest in peace.

Sheila Sager Obit

Sheila Agnes Sager, age 79, passed away July 10, 2023 at her home.

She was born January 4, 1944 at the family home in Weller, Ia. to Cecil and Agnes (Hutta) Crall. Her education was in Weller country school and then she graduated with the Lovilia High School class of 1962.

On July 27, 1963, she was married to Richard Sager at the Weller Catholic Church. They were blessed with three sons: Mark, Rick, and Paul. The couple celebrated almost 60 years together.

Sheila’s adult life was as a stay at home mother and assisted on the farm.

She took pride in her home and enjoyed gardening and her flowers. She loved bird watching and hated bugs. Sheila was an excellent baker and always had treats for any visitors. Her family was so important to her and she loved kids and even the neighbor kids called her “grandma”.

She is survived by her husband; son: Mark (Jill Sager), and three grandchildren: Bryant (Laura) Sager, Brenna (Jonathan) Koehn, and Brittany (Michael) Nelson; nine great-grandchildren; and a brother, Jim (Linda) Crall.

Preceding her in death were her sons: Rick and Paul; her parents; and her siblings: Jack, Pat, Bill (Joan) Crall, and Mary (Mick) Ripperger.

Visitation in 4-8pm on Friday, July 14, 2023 at Tharp Funeral Home in Albia. Family will be there to greet family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at Tharp’s. Pastor St. Lawrence and Bryant Sager co-officiating.

Burial will follow services at Woodlawn Cemetery, Lovilia, Iowa

May she rest in peace.

Absolute Cleaning Systems Expands

Brent Hugen is the general manager for the company. He is the son of the late Richard and Shirley Hugen who were long time Lovilia residents. Brent spent his early years at Lovilia School too!

Absolute Cleaning systems serves South Central Iowa since 2014. The assistant manager, Alex Steines, is moving to Ankeny, Iowa and the company will begin serving the Des Moines market. They will begin the new branch of business with carpet, floor cleaning and air duct and dryer vent cleaning services with additional services to follow soon after.

Congrats to Brent and the Absolute company for their success and new venture.

May 28, 2023

Graduation and Lovilia School Reunion News

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 9:03 pm

High school graduates with Lovilia homes or roots.

Drew Warren Chance: son of Dee Dee Chance and Mitch Chance. Grandson of Steve Chance and Chris Beary. He plans to study at Simpson College and play basketball there.

Graecie Wuebker: daughter of Emily Wuebker-Vaughn and the late Josh Wuebker, granddaughter of Kevin and the late Roxanne Wuebker. She plans to study marketing at Iowa State University.

Brodie Daniel Conner: son of Lance Conner and Carrie Fry. Grandson of Danny Conner. He plans to be a welder and is in the National Guard.

Janelle Destiny Caudill: daughter of Jeff Caudill and Jessica Caudill. Granddaughter of Julie (Morgan) Trinkle and her husband. She plans to attend Indian Hills Comm. College.

Devin Gerald Kimball: son of Andrea Kimball and Randy Kimball. He plans to go to Des Moines Area Comm. College to study manufacturing technology

Shelby Stewart: She is the daughter of Rebecca Sarver and Jeff Stewart. Granddaughter of the late David Stewart and Kim Stewart. Her plans are to attend PCI Academy to become a licensed beautician.

Ashley Beary: daughter of Steven and Tina Beary. Granddaughter of Jim and Shirley Beary. She plans to major in nursing at Indian Hills Comm. College.

Wyatt Jeffrey Kurimski: son of Joanne Kurimski and the late Tom Kurimski. He plans to work at Hy-Vee and farm. Grandparents were Tom and Catherine Kurimski.

Ella Hutchinson: daughter of Dustin and Karrie Hutchinson. Granddaughter of Larry Visser and the late Kay Marie Visser. Granddaughter of David and Melinda Hutchinson. Her plans are to attend Grand View University to double major in Human Services and Spanish.

Katelyn Scieszinski: daughter of Mike and Julie (Gansman) Scieszinski. Great granddaughter of Stephana (Papich) Larson. Her plans are to attend Indian Hills Comm. College for an associate of applied science degree in Radiologic Technology with interest in in MRI tech. and mammography.

Makayla Ann Griffith: daughter of Tim and Maryann Findley. Granddaughter of the late David Findley and Lorraine Findley. She plans to major in nursing and minor in business at Grandview University.

Wyatt David Stewart: son of Travis and Heather Stewart. Grandson of the late David Stewart and Kim Stewart. His plans are to attend the University of Iowa for nuclear medicine and also join the National Guard.

Lucas Hogeland: son of Jeff Dietrich and Andrea Hogeland. Grandson of the late Leroy Hogeland and the late Dorothy Hogeland. He is a Combat Medic in the Iowa Army National Guard.

Macy Nichols: daughter of Kelly and Derek Nichols. Granddaughter of the late Joe Comstock. She would like to enter the workforce in the nursing field.

Rebecca Lynn Little: daughter of Melissa and Archie Little. Granddaughter of Vicki Smith and the late Steven Smith. Granddaughter of Glenda Little and Mike Little. She will enter the workforce and consider further education later.

Harmony Hughes: daughter of Nadine Grosvenor and Mark Seavey. She plans to study arts and sciences at Indian Hills Comm. College for elementary education and be a part of the IHCC Warrior cheer team.

Twin Cedar Graduates with Lovilia Roots

Landyn Roland: son of Mitch and Joanna Provenzano Roland. Grandson of JoAnn Crall Provenzano Reed and Dennis Provenzano.

Rylee Dunkin: daughter of Kurt and Heather Dunkin. Granddaughter of Sheila Self Dunkin and Randy Dunkin. Great granddaughter of Rose Self.

Congratulations and best wishes to all the graduates.

If I left out any graduates or made errors please let me know so I can make corrections. Call Susan at 641-946-7952.

Lovilia Homecoming 2023

The reunion committee is Elaine Plum Podnar, Judy Weldon Conner, Dawn Ansley Maughan, Loita Barnes Williams, Jolinda Baker Wilson and Lisa Conner Gilkerson.

SAVE THE DATE: AUGUST 5, Saturday from 11am-4pm at the Lovilia Community Center.

Besides the Lovilia High School Alumni we are including our younger friends who were raised in Lovilia, went to some classes in Lovilia or still reside in or around Lovilia.

Registration (no charge) begins at 11am (donations of $5 to cover expenses would be appreciated.

Lunch and Hospitality begins 11:30-1pm. (menu: walking tacos, beef burgers, chips, cookies, or bar cookies, and beverages will be there for purchase and proceeds go to the Lovilia Comm. Bldg.

Alumni program will be 1-2pm.

Entertainment 2-4pm will be music by the DJ John Flattery of old rock and some surprises perhaps of later

music.

RSVP by JULY 1st

to Elaine Plum Podner 515-289-2317 and tell how many will be coming with you so they can have enough food prepared and seating available. If you want to tell her you are coming by mail and a $5 donation you can mail it to:

Elaine Podnar, LHS Alumni Committee

7246 NE 14th Street

Ankeny, Iowa 50023

HISTORY LESSON: THIS YEAR IS LOVILIA’S 170TH BIRTHDAY. The town has been here from1853 to today. A little history will be in the program.

To keep updated on the reunion, the committee says you can go to facebook page: “you might be from the Lovilia area…”

Hope to see you there!

April 1, 2023

Celia Kurimski Welsh Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 9:26 pm

Celia, age 76, of Ankeny, Iowa passed away March31, 2023 at Sunny View Care Center in Ankeny, Iowa in her families caring presence.

She was born on June 21, 1946 at the family farm home near Lovilia to Thomas and Catherine (Adams) Kurimski. She completed her education when she graduated from Albia High School with the class of 1964.

In 1965 Celia and Gene Welsh were joined in marriage and were blessed with two children: Steve and Debbie.

She had a 23 year career at Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny, Iowa in the dining center and enjoyed meeting the students.

Celia was a faith filled person who enjoyed many activities such as: attending kids/grandkids sports and other activities; bargain shopping; bingo; time in the sunshine; and animals in general, but especially her cat, Baby.

Survivors include: Steve (Jodie) Welsh of West Des Moines, and Deb Easter of Granger; four grandchildren; her mother; and brother, Jim, of Lovilia.

Preceding her in death were her father; her sister, Charlotte Post (Larry); and her brother, Tommy Joe Kurimski.

Visitation will be from 1-2:30 p.m. at the church before mass begins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:30p.m , Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lovilia with Father Mark Yates, C.P.P.S. officiating. Interment will follow in St. Peter’s Cemetery in Lovilia.

May she rest in peace.

On line condolences may be left for the family at sinnottfuneralhome.com or the Sinnott Funeral Home Facebook page.

EASTER EGG HUNT APRIL 10TH

The Lovilia United Methodist Church will host an Easter Egg Hunt on Monday, April 10th at the city playground in the south end (behind the Catholic Church). All kids are welcome to hunt!

ALL CITY WIDE YARD SALES April 29th

The city has scheduled the annual yard sale for Saturday, April 29th, with the usual starting time of 8 a.m.

Each yard can choose their own closing time. Bring cash and find those treasures and junk to upscale. Let the shopping begin……………

March 31, 2023

Gerald “Charger” Keith Ross Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 1:08 am

Gerald, age 91, passed away today, March 30,2023 at VA Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.

He was born on January 10, 1932 at his parent’s home near Attica. HIs father was Glenn Ellis Ross and his mother was Anna Pauline (Jones) Ross. HIs education was all in the Lovilia schools and he graduated with the class of 1950.

On April 24, 1954 he and Eleanor “Claudine” Gullion were joined in marriage at Knoxville, Iowa and the spent 63 years together until she passed in 2021. They were blessed with five children: Patti, Deb, Greg, Kenny, and Brian.

Gerald and his father worked together in a sawmill until Gerald went into the Army and was stationed in Korea. After serving his country, he returned home and worked: 21 years at John Morrell’s in Ottumwa; drove truck for Ted Visser and for Leach Trucking Co.; and then worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Corps of Engineers.

In his youth he pitched in a fast pitch softball league. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as: hunting, fishing, vegetable gardening, mowing and manicuring his lawn; and fixing most anything. Gerald had his pilot’s license and flew his own planes. He loved the Lovilia community and would help with projects like construction, cement work, plumbing, and grave digging.

The family went on trips with him to Canada, Mt. Rushmore, Florida and Lake Red Rock camping.

Friends and family often called him the nicknames: Charger, Gunner, or Sarge. He shared his great sense of humor with them all.

Gerald is survived by four children: Deb, Greg, Kenny, and Brian; 9 grandchildren, eleven great-grand children and one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter-Patti, twin sisters- Wilma and Wilda, and a brother-Robert.

Visitation will be 12:30pm-1 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Tharp Funeral Home Albia, Iowa with his family present to greet family and friends.

Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Tharp’s. Pastor Richard Grimes officiating and military honors provided by the American Legion of Albia, Lovilia, and Melrose. Burial will follow services at Gullion Cemetery in Attica, Iowa

Memorials have been established to the American Legion in Albia and the Welcome Home Soldier monument in Albia.

May he rest in peace.

March 27, 2023

Mary “Theresa” Lenger Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 8:50 pm

Mary “Theresa”, age 86, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Monroe Care Center in Albia, Iowa under the care of Every Step Hospice.

She was born on July 13, 1936 at the family farm home east of Hamilton, Iowa to Albert and Kathryn (Flahive) Lenger. Her education began at Hamilton and finished with graduation from Lovilia High School.

Theresa’s career was with the VA and began in Knoxville and then in Iowa City until her retirement.

She was an active member of the Catholic Church. First in Lovilia at St. Peter’s where she taught catechism classes. Then in St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Coralville, Iowa. Theresa was asked to be Godmother and confirmation sponsor for many of her nieces and nephews. She even took one university student nephew to church herself to “make sure he got there”.

She was an avid bowler and was in league teams and won many trophies at tournaments. She was a fan of Hawkeye football and basketball and hosting for guests who came to see the games. Three best friends: Shirley Holtz, Janet Barry, and Margaret Brogla, were regular dinner and travel companions. She cherished her family most of all.

Theresa is survived by one sister, Marge Comer of Norwalk; a sister-in-law, Nancy Lenger; a brother-in-law, Joe Conway; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; six brothers: Richard, Ed, Daniel, Joseph, Jim, and David; and a sister, Pauline.

Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at St. Peter’s Catholic church in Lovilia with her family present to greet family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., following visitation at St. Peter’s with Father Mark Yates, C.P.P.S. officiating. Burial will follow services at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Lovilia.

Memorials may be sent to Every Step Hospice.

May she rest in peace.

March 22, 2023

Brian “Brownie” Brown Celebration of Life Services

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 11:08 pm

Visitation will be Friday, March 24, 2023 beginning at 2pm and then Brownie’s family will be present to visit with guests from 5-7pm. at Sinnott Funeral Home & Crematory in Albia, Iowa.

The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 7pm after visitation at the funeral home. David Willardson will officiate. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Brian Eric O’Donovan Bown passed away March 19,2023 at home in Lovilia, Iowa at age 58.

He was born on March 18, 1965 to Charles Larry and Mary Rose (Dethrow) Brown. He graduated from Knoxville High School with the class of 1984. Then he graduated from Marshalltown Community College and was on the Dean’s List.

Brownie married Debbie Lahart on August 7, 2004 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Georgetown, Iowa. He and Debbie were blessed with two children: Taryn and Brian.

He had many interests including: working on cars, fishing, wood working, and lawn mowing. He was serving his community as a member of the Lovilia City Council. Brownie loved helping others, telling stories, and making people laugh.

Survivors include: his wife; children: Danise “Nieser” (Trey) Hyatt of Knoxville, Ia.; Brianne (Lucas) Teeter of Albia; Taryn and Brian Brown of Lovilia; and six grandchildren. Also surviving are his siblings: Kelly (Daniel) Binns, Kirk Brown, Jodi (David) Willardson, all of Knoxville, Iowa and Ronnie (Kristy) Brown of Lovilia.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Michael Brown.

May he rest in peace.

March 20, 2023

Joseph “Joe” Andrew Nupp Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 11:02 pm

Joe, age 65, of Lovilia, Iowa passed away February 20, 2023. He was born in Albia, Iowa to Robert James and Margaret Mae (Wilcoxson) Nupp on April 20, 1957. His career was with kaiser Brothers (now Martin Marietta) running equipment and loading rock into trucks for 37 years until he retired in 2017 due to his health.

His interests included: fishing, mushroom hunting, shooting guns, baking, John Wayne collection, hot wheels collection, car shows, Reba McEntire, and Minesota Vikings. He really like his ’66 Mustang. Joe was a generous man and enjoyed visiting with friends and family.

He is survived by his special companion, Dorothy Wagner and her daughter, Steph Kingery. Surviving too are his children: Ashley (Jeff) Runnells, Kaylia (Marc) Etcher, and Sierra Spaur; 11 grandchildren; one great grandbaby; siblings: Debra Nelson and Kenneth Nupp. He leaves his long-time friends, Jimmy Anderson and Donny Ward.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; a grandbaby, Ethan; six siblings: Perry, Donald, Norman,Ethel, Dorothy, and Betty; a sister-in-law Mary and a niece, Barb.

The funeral was at Tharps, Albia and burial at Hiteman Cemetery in Hiteman, Iowa. Open memorial to the family.

May he rest in peace.

Dennis Scott Keeton Obit

Dennis, age 69, of Greensboro, North Carolina, died February 26, 2023.

Denny was born August 17, 1953 to Edith Elnora Scott and Elmer Joseph (Shag) Keeton. He graduated from Albia Community High School with the class of 1971. Denny graduated from the University of Iowa College of Nursing in 1975 and was a licensed RN. Then graduating from the Minneapolis VA School of Nurse Anesthesia he was licensed as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in 1980. He later earned a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration and a Master’s degree in Nursing, as well as graduating from the US Army Command and General Staff College.

Dennis proudly served his country for over 27 years, retiring in 2000 from active service with the rank of Major as an Army Nurse Corp officer. He moved to Greensboro and worked as anesthetist and a staff member for over 20 years. He loved nursing, advocating for his patients, and training new clinicians.

His interests included: making award winning wine, beer, etc.; scuba diving, camping, cooking, reading, bowling, and cross-country skiing.

On May 2, 1981 he was married to Beth Ann Rasmussen in Wayzata, Minnesota. They were blessed with two daughters, Bridget and Kathryn. The family moved with the Army including to Germany and Russia.

As a dad he helped with softball, soccer, Girl Scouts, golf, and running.

Joe volunteered with Red Cross, hospital chaplain, and many ways in his church, Saint Pius X Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, daughters, one granddaughter, two step-grandsons,

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law, Donna Keeton, in-laws Raymond and Marian Rasmussen and his brother Joe died March 7, 2023.

A memorial mass will be held on Monday, March 20, 2023 at Saint Pius X Catholic Chruch. Interment with military honors will be Friday May 12, 2023 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Memorials are for Disabled American Veterans online at dav.org/ways to give or via check to DAV, POBox 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250 or give to a charity of your choice in his name.

May he rest in peace.

Joe Keeton Obit

Elmer Joseph Keeton, Jr. of Newton Iowa passed away on March 7,2023 at the hospital in Destin, Florida.

He was born on February 28, 1947 in Oskaloosa to Edith (Scott) and Elmer Joseph Keeton, Sr. Joe graduated from Albia High School with the class of 1965. In his youth he worked at his dad’s gas station.

In 1966 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and after basic training he returned home to marry Donna Phipps on July 24, 1966. They shared 45 years together and raised three sons: Mark, Brian, and David.

Joe served in the Army from 1966-1969 and his training in communications based in Korea prepared him for 40 years in Database Management. He retired from Iowa Telecom in 2010.

He belonged to the American Legion and the Independent Bible Church of Bussey, Iowa. His hobbies included woodworking and playing cards.

Joe is survived by his three sons, 8 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents, wife, daughter-Kelly Jo, a still born son, brother-Dennis, and his in-laws-Hilbert and Joy Phipps.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 22,2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Church in Newton, Iowa. The service will be live streamed on the church’s Facebook page. The family will greet friends after the service with a luncheon at the church.

Memorials may be left at the church or the Wallace Family Funeral Home and Crematory.

May he rest in peace.

Junior Goematt, husband of Verona Goematt, of Lovilia has also passed away. According to his wishes there will be no services and a private family burial at a later time. May he rest in peace.

March19,2023 Brian “Brownie” Brown passed away. We have no information about services at this time. May he rest in peace and we offer prayers for his family.

Tractor Fire

This weekend Pat Beary was moving hay on his tractor to feed his horses when he smelled something hot. He pulled off the road and hopped down only to see his tractor burst into flames. We are thankful he escaped safely.

Lenten & Easter Services at St. Peter’s

Daily Mass at 9am on Tuesdays.

Stations of the Cross on Tuesdays at 6pm

Reconciliation on Tuesday March 28 from 5:30-6pm.

Good Friday April 7 mass at 3pm

Easter Sunday April 9 mass at 7am.

Easter Blessings to All!

January 22, 2023

Lori Renee Hunt Rote Obit

Filed under: Uncategorized — Susan Beary @ 12:28 am

Lori, age 61, of Oskaloosa, Iowa died on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at her home.

She was born on February 14, 1961 at Monroe County Hospital in Albia, Iowa to David Cecil and Judy (Self) Hunt. She attended Albia Schools and graduated with the class of 1979. Then she studied Culinary Arts at Indian Hills Comm. college, Ottumwa, Iowa.

December 31, 1982 she married Paul Daniel Smith who died in 1990. Lori later married Richard Alan Rote on November 27, 1992. They had one daughter, Brittany. The couple shared 22 years of marriage until Richard passed in 2014.

Her work years included: semi- truck driver, Monroe Plastics worker, restaurant work with her mother, and then caring for the elderly in their homes.

Lori was an excellent cook, Nascar fan, 70 and 80’s rock concerts, walker, dog lover, and enjoyed family time.

She is survived by her children: Richard, Nicholas and Ryan Rote and her daughter Brittany Beals. Lori has 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Also, her siblings: Kevin (Alicia) Hunt, Brian (Maureen) Hunt, Brad (Tammy) Hunt, and Mindy (James) Ford. Lori has three step-sisters too: Connie and Paula Repp and Elsie Foster.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, parents, and 2 step- sisters: Doris and Carolyn.

Her body was cremated and a private family burial will be held at a later date. May she rest in peace.

Viola Fern Howie Obit

Viola Fern Bellon Howie, age 72, of Lovilia, Iowa passed away on December 22, 2022 at the Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa, Iowa under hospice care.

She was born in Corydon, Iowa on October 22, 1950 to John Ambrose and Twila Maxine (Haff) Bellon. Viola attended school in Corydon and graduated with the class of 1969.

On November 28,1969 she married James Edward Howie at the First Assemblies of God Church in Corydon. They shared 53 years of marriage before her passing. Four children blessed their marriage: Chawn, Heather, James R. and Joshua.

She worked many years in Burlington, Iowa. First at Lamont Limited and then in food service for the Burlington school district. Her interests included Bowling, archery, needlework, and walks in the park with her husband. Above all she loved Jesus and her family.

Viola is survivedby her husband and four children: Chawn (Bret) Daniel of Bois D’arc, Mo, Heather Burk of Albia, James R. (Loretta Hash) Howie of Springfield, MO, and Joshua Howie of Burlingotn, IA. Also, surviving are 6 grandchildren, 2 great grandchiildren and her twin, Victor Bellon, and sister Carmen Bellon.

Viola was preceded in death by her parents, and three brother: John D. Terry, and Albert; and three sisters: Shelby, Leona, and Nancy.

Per her wishes, her body has been cremated and a celebration Life will be held at a later date. May she rest in peace.

Leroy Hogeland Obit

Leroy Burdette Hogeland passed away on January 7, 2023 at Taylor Hospice House in Des Moines, Iowa with his family present.

He was born on January 13, 1932 to Ellen ( Nelson) and Lloyd Hogeland in the house on the family farm. John went to Brown Country School and then graduated as salutatorian form Lovilia High School with the class of 1949. After attending Simpson College for one year, he joined the Army and served two years in Germany in the motor pool.

Returning home, he worked road construction including help build Iowa highway 34. He and a friend, Phil Frye, purchased a D7 bulldozer and he constructed his own ponds and terraces on the family farm that he took charge of in the 1950’s.

In 1960 he met and married Dorothy Lynn Sherman. They were blessed with three children: Andrea, Alicia, and John. They were married over fifty years when she passed in 2014. Then he married Annabelle Post but she passed within the year. Later in 2016, he married Roma Gray on September 17th.

Leroy loved his independence and outside work as he raised corn, beans, hay, hogs, and his favorite-cattle.

Leroy’s family recalls these memories of him: he taught himself to weld and repaired his and others equipment, he was stubborn and persistent in solving problems, he was honest and kept his word, loved ice cream and dancing, and was always working on his farm.

He is survived by his wife, his three children: Andrea (Jeff Dietrich), Alicia (Bruce Sutton) and John (Beth Hoffman. He has four grandchildren: Jacob, Antonio, Bree, and Lucas.

Preceding him in death were his parents, two spouses, and sister, Marie Hogeland Lapsey.

The funeral was January 14, 2023 at Union Liberty Church, Bussey, Iowa. Military rites will follow services at the church. He will be interred at Woodlawn Cemetery in Lovilia, Iowa at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Union Liberty Church in Bussey. May her rest in peace.

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