Iowa Living Magazines

Dale John Gavin

Dale John Gavin, 89, died May 31, 2022, at the Des Moines VA hospice after suffering from complications of cancer. After high school, Dale joined the Army and served in the Korean War. In 1955, he married Patricia (Patty) Miller.
Dale worked for Pittsburgh Des Moines Steel for 10 years. One of his projects was the St. Louis Arch. He and Patty operated Gavin TV and Appliance for 57 years. He also owned and operated school buses for more than 40 years. He served as volunteer fire chief for 28 years. Dale and others were responsible for starting St. Mary’s Volunteer Fire Department in the 1970s. He was also awarded a medal on the 50th anniversary of the Korean War from the South Korean Government Ambassador in Des Moines and the Ambassador of Peace medal in a ceremony in South Korea. Dale was involved in his community including the American Legion and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. In addition, he served as an emergency first responder and unofficial tornado chaser.
He is survived by his wife; five children, Pam Gavin, Cathy (Scott) Wiegert, Tim (Mary) Gavin, Beth (John) Manley and Alan (Emily) Gavin; nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and seven brothers.
A funeral mass was held on Tuesday, June 7 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys. Memorial contributions can be sent to Saint Mary’s Fire Department, P.O. Box 95, St. Marys, IA 50241 or Gofundme.com/the-battle-is-on-for-aj-sean.

Norma Louise McKinney

Norma Louise McKinney, 91, died June 2, 2022, in Des Moines. Services were June 8 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. Memorials may be made to Kiya Koda Humane Society in her name.
Norma is survived by her children, Martin McKinney, Karen (Brad) Stouwie and Marcia (Duane) VanDike; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Earl.

Robert E. Hoskinson Jr.

Robert E. Hoskinson Jr., 76, died June 3, 2022, in Oskaloosa. Robert was born in Creston and graduated from Creston High School in 1964. He majored in English at Simpson College and was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He received a master’s degree in 18th century British literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Iowa. Robert married Marilyn Trotter in 1970. Throughout his life, he worked in many different roles, including assistant dean of students at Simpson College, resident advisor at Grinnell College, and a human service professional in multiple health settings and nursing homes throughout the state. Robert was an accomplished musician and poet. He was a member of various jazz trios and quartets.
Robert is survived by his wife; children, Tabitha (Barry) Blessing and Ben (Mindy) Hoskinson; sister; four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother.
Services will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 11 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola, with visitation one hour prior. Memorials may be made to Mahaska County Pheasants Forever in his name.

Ora Lorene ‘Tig’ Tigner

Ora Lorene “Tig” Tigner, 61, died May 30, 2022, in Des Moines. Services were on June 2 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. Lorene is survived by her siblings, Andy (Diane) Curnes, Jennie Beery and Teresa (Michael) Lytle; niece, Katlyn (Nick Strasser) England; nephew Tristin Lawrence and her fur baby Lucky. She was preceded in death by brothers Richard Walton and Randy Allen. Memorials may be given to the family in her name. To sign an online condolence, visit www.overtonfunerals.com.

Marlyn Orlo Aldrich

Marlyn Orlo Aldrich, 84, of West Des Moines, died May 25, 2022, at Sunnyview Care Center in Ankeny. Marlyn was born in Redfield and graduated from Redfield High School in 1955. He served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1962. He married Kay Daniels in 1964. Marlyn worked in commercial office equipment and supplies sales for 45 years.
In death, he rejoins his wife; children Sheila and Dennis; and four siblings. He is survived by children Randy and Kimberly; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and brothers Wayne (Ruby) and Vernon (Jean).
A funeral service was held Thursday June 2 at Westover Funeral Home in Des Moines.

Frank Monroe Cleaver

Frank Monroe Cleaver, Jr., 69, died May 31, 2022. He was born in Independence, Louisiana. When he was 5 years old, his family moved to Iowa. He graduated from Valley High School in 1971 and, shortly after, married his wife of 48 years, Laurie Sue (Basquin) Cleaver. They resided in West Des Moines, where they raised four children. Frank mentored many young carpenter apprentices during his 40 years in the Local Carpenter Union 106. He enjoyed being at his cabin at Twin Lakes in Missouri, where he spent a lot of time after his retirement enjoying the outdoors.
He is survived by his wife; children Jackie (Georges) De Vries, Andrew Cleaver and Tanya (Scott) Burke; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; mother; two brothers; two sisters; and many nieces and nephews. Frank is preceded in death by his father, daughter Celeste Reszel, and brother Gary Cleaver.
An open house to celebrate and honor Frank’s life will be from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, July 8 at the Lodge at Walnut Woods State Park, 3155 Walnut Woods Drive, West Des Moines.

Alice N. Gratias

Alice N. Gratias, 97, of West Des Moines (formerly of Mason City and Nora Springs), died May 13, 2022. She was preceded in death by husband Arthur L. Gratias and three brothers. She is survived by her sons Tom (LaDonna) Gratias, Jim (Connie) Gratias and Doug (Val) Gratias; six grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and her sister.
A memorial service with visitation luncheon will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 10 at Eden Presbyterian Church, 3105 Glass Ave., Rudd. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the church, Mason City YMCA, or any other charity of choice.

Joan C. Schlemmer

Joan C. Schlemmer, 98, of Waukee, died May 26, 2022. Joan was born in Council Bluffs. She graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1942 then worked briefly for Northwestern Bell in Omaha and Iowa Power Co. in Council Bluffs. She married Jack Schlemmer in 1943 while he was on leave from the U.S. Navy. After the births of their four children, the family moved to West Des Moines in 1960, where she lived until moving to a retirement facility in Waukee in 2015. She was a member of West Des Moines Christian Church for more than 60 years.
Joan will be missed by her children, Dave (Anne-Marie), Nancy (Bob) Goldhammer and Debby (Frank) Gresh; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 61 years; her son Don and her granddaughter Elizabeth. Services were Saturday, June 4 at West Des Moines Christian Church.

Robert Wheeler

Robert Wheeler, 76, died June 2, 2022. He was born in California and raised in Hastings. Bob earned his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University. He worked in the environmental science department of The University of Iowa, retiring after 33 years. Bob was a member of the American Association of Woodturners. In his free time, he made ornaments for the Festival of Trees & Lights and enjoyed gardening. Bob met Ginnie Noe in 2012 and married her at the Renaissance Fair in 2015.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Malisa (Jason) Ireland and Elizabeth Bell; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and six sisters. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Liebchen Pratner, and granddaughter Elisabeth Katerina Pratner.
A funeral service was held Wednesday, June 8 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. Memorials are suggested to Adel United Methodist Church. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

John ‘Tom’ Reed

John “Tom” Reed, 87, of Winterset, died May 26, 2022, at the Madison County Memorial Hospital in Winterset. John was born in Des Moines. He graduated from Lorimor High School in 1954. Shortly after graduation, he married Helen Loomis. Over the years, John enjoyed driving school buses for the Winterset School District and building fences. John retired from John Deere after several years of delivering lawn tractors and parts.
John is survived by his wife of 67 years; children, Teri (Mark) Leeper, Shawn Scheeler, Troy Reed, and Susie (David) Perkins; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, John Thomas Reed Jr.; brother, Dick Reed; and sisters, Bobbie McNamara, and Sandy Jacobs.
A memorial service was held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel on Wednesday, June 1. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Mike Green

Mike Green, 61, of Winterset, died May 28, 2022, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. Mike was born to Darrell and Phyllis (Richardson) Green in Des Moines. He graduated from I-35 schools in 1979 and attended college at Lincoln Tech. Following school, Mike worked various jobs until he settled into a role with Charles Gabus Ford in Des Moines working in the parts shipping and receiving department. He worked for Charles Gabus Ford for 32 years.
Mike is survived by his life partner, Debbie Field; father; children, Jennifer, Dusty and Sami Green; sister, Linda (Walter) Walker; nephew, Kwin Walker; niece, Keaton Walker; step-children, Jennifer Brown and Toni Mincey; 12 step-grandchildren; and six step-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis; and step-son, Wayne Field.
A funeral service was held on Wednesday, June 1 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Erlene M. Henrichs

Erlene Marie (Poppinga) Henrichs, 85, of Winterset, died May 30, 2022. She was born at her grandmother’s farmhouse in Pocahontas County. She graduated from Humboldt High School in 1954. She attended Iowa State Teachers’ College, receiving her two-year teaching certificate. She returned to Pocahontas to teach elementary school. In 1958, she married August (Gus) Henrichs. They moved to Winterset, where Gus was working as a professional farm manager. Erlene taught for several years in the Winterset School District before becoming a mother. Erlene remained active in education, frequently substituting and finally working as a teaching associate for 21 years. She was active in her church, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Winterset. She was also an active member of Chapter AG PEO.
She is survived by her husband; daughters, Greta (Randy) Short, Deanne (Greg) Steffens, Jennifer (Andy) Mattes; three granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; three siblings; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were Friday, June 3 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Winterset.

William ‘Bill’ Joseph Roach

William “Bill” Joseph Roach, 76, died May 29, 2022, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born in Madison County. He graduated from Winterset High School in 1963 and attended Buena Vista University in Storm Lake. In 1965, he married Shirley Anne Hart. In 1976, Bill opened Madison County Tire, an independent Goodyear Dealership in Winterset. He was active in the community for several decades as a part of the Winterset Fire Department and the Winterset Water Department, as Covered Bridge chairman, and as president of the Chamber of Commerce, just to name a few. He was a Cub and Boy Scout leader and coached Little League baseball. He was a member of the Central Iowa Auto Club and the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors.
He is survived by his wife; sons Mark (Misti) and Joseph (Mia) Roach; four grandchildren; and two siblings. Funeral services were held at the First United Methodist Church, Winterset on Thursday, June 2.

Jeraldine Brown

Jeraldine “Jeri” M. (Atherton) Brown, 88, died May 30, 2022. Jeri was born in rural Bondurant, where she continued to live until her death. Jeri graduated from Bondurant High School and married her high school sweetheart, Jerry, at Bondurant Christian Church. Jeri was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and attended the Christian Women’s Club. Jeri looked forward to her monthly luncheons with a neighboring group of women called the “Birthday Club.”
Jeri is survived by her daughters, Kyle (Mike Booth) Carney and Kristyn Brown; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her husband; daughters, Jill and Leslianne; grandson, Shaun; and six sisters.
Funeral services were Saturday, June 4 at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home.

Larry Allan DaRos

Larry Allan DaRos, 70, of Ankeny died suddenly from cardiac arrest on May 27, 2022. Born in Des Moines, Larry graduated in 1971 from Roosevelt High School and served six years in Iowa’s Air National Guard. He married Marlene (Oliver) in 1971. They made their home in Ankeny and were blessed with two children. Larry was employed by John Deere Des Moines Works for 42 years, was a member of UAW’s Union Local 450 and attended St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ankeny. He is survived by his wife, children Scott (Morgana) DaRos and Jeannie (Kurt) Werner, grandson, and several other relatives and friends. Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Auggie. A private burial was planned.

Walter Roy Suominen

Walter Roy Suominen, 77, died May 28, 2022, in Atlantic. He was born in Ironwood, Michigan. In high school, he was a gifted athlete in team sports. He graduated in 1963 and later obtained his bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. Walt worked for Echlin for 30 years, selling auto parts ,and retired in 2003. He then spent a few years as a car jockey for Dewey Ford.
Walt was preceded in death by his wife, Susan. He is survived by his siblings Don (Paula) and Jane; nephew David (Lindsay); two great-nephews; two goddaughters; sister-in-law Jan (Jim) Rzentkowski; and other family.
Funeral services were Friday, June 3 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ankeny.

Erik Alan Moore

Erik Alan Moore, 42, of Ankeny, died May 30, 2022, at UnityPoint Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Erik was born in Burbank, California, to Alvin and Connie (Warner) Moore. He was employed by Amazon and worked in the Des Moines warehouse.
Erik is survived by his parents; children Luke, Will and Anna Moore; former wife Kate Moore; and three brothers.
Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 15 at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines.

James ‘Jim’ Durwood Nelson

James “Jim” Durwood Nelson, 72, of Ankeny, died May 28, 2022, of cancer. Jim was born in Fort Dodge and graduated from Central Webster of Burnside High School in 1967. He then attended Des Moines Skill Center, where he met Patricia Marie Nelson-Rogoff. Jim and Patricia married in 1970.
Jim began his career in the automotive parts industry at Sasco Auto Parts of Des Moines, after which he worked at Hawkeye Auto Supply for 18 years. Jim then worked for and eventually retired from K-Tool International in 2009. Jim was a coach, mentor, and fan, and served as president/vice president of the Southtown Industrial Bowling League for many years.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife and son David. He is survived by his son Jimmy, two grandchildren, two siblings and many nieces and nephews.

Ronald Lee Van De Pol

Ronald Lee Van De Pol, 79, died May 16, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice in Johnston. He was born in Oskaloosa. He graduated from Hedrick High School in 1961. He attended Iowa School of Automation in Des Moines after graduation and started working in 1962 in the IBM department at John Deere Des Moines Works. He also worked as a buyer and assembly line supervisor. In 1977, he worked for a short time as assistant store manager of a Massey Ferguson dealership in Creston, then for several years as parts manager of Van Wall Equipment in Woodward and Perry, and store manager at the dealership in Madrid. In 1990, he started driving a semi for Highway Mail, going to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He retired in 2012.
In 1964, he married Lyn (Dann), and they made their home in Ankeny for eight years, moved to Slater, and moved back to Ankeny in 2001.
In Ankeny, Ron served on the fire department and was a part-time police officer. In Slater, he was in the fire department, a member of the Kiwanis Club and a coach of Slater Little League. He was a member of Ankeny First Methodist Church and Slater United Methodist Church.
Ron is survived by his wife; three sons, Bret (Alison) and children Brea (Quentin Danner and children Sullivan and Forrest), Tabor (fiancé Michael Carlson), Brody, Millie and Gus, Mark (Tina) and children Marisa (Josh Moos and children, Colson, Nash, and Holden), Mason (Libby), and Conner Stifel (fiancé Natalia Moreno), Kent (Sara) and children, Kade and Kali; and a brother. He was preceded in death by his brother, Terry, and daughter-in-law, Tracy (Carle).
A public visitation will be 1:30-3:30 p.m., Sunday, June 12 at Courtyard by Marriott, 2405 S.E. Creekview Drive, Ankeny.

Cynthia ‘Cindy’ Ann Mullin

Cynthia (Cindy) Ann Mullin, 71, died May 26, 2022. She was born in Mason City. After high school, Cindy graduated from cosmetology school in 1970. Cindy enjoyed success over the years as the owner of CJ Hair in Ankeny.
Cindy is survived by her children, Ryan (Lauren) Long and Jill (Scot) Cook; granddaughters Sophie and Stella Cook; and siblings Mary Vonne Mullin, Dee (Vern) Lauffer and Jack (Adele) Mullin. A celebration of life will be held 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Church, Ankeny. For online condolences or to share a memory or photo, visit DyamondMemorial.com.

David Marshall Winders

David Marshall Winders, 76, died April 3, 2022. A celebration of life will be held at Ankeny Funeral Home on Saturday, June 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. David was born in Des Moines and graduated from North High School in 1963. After graduation, David served four years in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. David retired from John Deere Des Moines Works in 2005.
David is survived by his wife, Wendy Winders; four daughters, Shelley (Mark) Koons, Jennifer (Angelo) Martinez, Christine (Keith) Lydon and Nicole (Lou) Schwalbach; two grandsons; and two siblings.

Dennis Lee Brazelton

Dennis Lee Brazelton, 82, of Ankeny, died May 29, 2022. He graduated from Ankeny High School in 1958 and studied at Central College in Pella. He worked at John Deere Des Moines Works for more than 40 years and held the dual responsibility of running the family farm. In 1999, Dennis retired from John Deere and continued farming until his death.
Dennis met Pat Jensen at Ankeny High School. Dennis and Pat married in 1960 and were married for 62 years. They had three children.
Dennis was predeceased by his brother Herbert and sister-in-law Jean (Hoaas). He is survived by his wife; children Todd (Karla) Brazelton, Deb (Ben) Gaulke, and Gary (Jen) Brazelton; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and three siblings. Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 2 at Memorial Services of Iowa Funeral Home in Ankeny.

Rebecca Lynn Clark-Boersma

Rebecca Lynn Clark-Boersma, 47, of Ankeny died May 27, 2022, of metastatic breast cancer. Rebecca was born in Des Moines to Jim and Margi Clark. In first grade, her family moved to Mount Ayr. She graduated from Mount Ayr Community High School in 1992. Rebecca was a long-time employee of Life Care Services in Des Moines. In September 2018, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought hard and was cancer-free, but the cancer returned in September 2020. She participated in trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Dallas and Mayo Clinic in Rochester in hopes of helping other women in their fight with cancer.
She is survived by her children, Clark Boersma and Kaitlynn Boersma; father; sister, Melissa (Jay) Hudecek; and a niece and nephew. Rebecca was preceded in death by her mother.
A funeral service was held Thursday, June 2 at St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Jennifer Anne (Burget) Anderson

Jennifer Anne (Burget) Anderson, 42, of Altoona, died May 29, 2022, after a three-year cancer battle. Jen was born in Des Moines. She was placed with her adoptive parents, Tim and Diane Burget on Tim’s birthday, the best present he ever received. Jen discovered her lifelong love of swimming as a child, swimming competitively and working as a lifeguard at the Altoona Public Pool. Jen graduated from Southeast Polk High School, obtained an associate’s degree at American Institute of Business, and earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Graceland University. She was working for Principal in Des Moines when she met Brant, whom she married in 2005.
Jen discovered her passion for working with children after becoming a mom. She was an entrepreneur, offering day care and private swim lessons while spending as much time as possible making memories with her three daughters. These experiences prepared Jen for her dream career, managing Foss Swim School in Ankeny, where she thrived for the last three years.
Surviving Jen are her husband; three daughters, Davan, Libby and Summer; parents; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Jen was preceded in death by her younger brother, David Burget, and grandparents.
Funeral services were held Friday, June 3 at the Altoona Christian Church.

Robert Cory

Robert Cory, 90, died May 27, 2022. He was born in Elkhart and graduated from Elkhart High School in 1950. He married Lou Jean Lewis in 1951. He proudly served in the United States Army from February 1952 to August 1953. Robert began working at Meadow Gold Dairy in 1950 and worked there for 44 years, retiring in 1994. Robert was a member of American Legion Post 396 and together, he and Lou Jean enjoyed traveling with a wonderful group of other Legion members over the years. He also served as a member of the Midwest Dairy Council and as a 4-H leader.
Robert is survived by his wife of 71 years; sons, Stephen (Marla) Cory and David (Merri) Cory; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother; two sisters-in-law; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Helen, Darlene, Pat, Buck, Jim, Michael and Lewis.
Funeral services were Friday, June 3 at St. Mary-Holy Cross Catholic Church in Elkhart. Visitation was Thursday, June 2 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 N.W. 60th Ave., Des Moines. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Nicole Lynn Froah

Nicole Lynn Froah, 52, died May 30, 2022, of leukemia. She was born to Robert and Carolyn (Dawson) Froah in Des Moines. Nicole graduated from Southeast Polk High School in 1988 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Kaplan University. She worked for Grinnell College for many years.
Nicole is survived by her son, Blake Stephen; parents; niece; uncle; and a host of other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kristin Wiese. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Dallas E. Randles

Dallas E. Randles, 86, died May 24, 2022, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, and moved to Des Moines at the age of 11. He graduated from Woodside High School in Des Moines where he met his wife, Patsy Beattie. His career was spent working at Firestone as a forklift operator, retiring in 1992.
Dallas is survived by his children, Robin (Kevin) Talley and John Randles; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and five siblings. He was preceded in death by his wife; daughter-in-law, Sandy Randles; and siblings, Charles Randles, Helen Newby and Richard Randles.
Funeral services were Thursday, June 2 at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Christopher Edward Bazzocco

Christopher Edward Bazzocco, 56, died Jan. 29, 2022. Christopher was born in Des Moines to Dominic and Karen (Lund) Bazzocco. He married Rebecca (Costello) Bazzocco in 2001. Chris founded B & C Commercial Cleaning with his business partner, Danny Clothier. In his younger years, he was a state champion wrestler for Dowling Catholic High School.
Christopher is survived by his children, Alexandra Bazzocco, Peyton Bazzocco, Haley Manning, Charlie (Megan) Manning, and Jack (Sara) Manning; six grandchildren; mother; sister; two brothers; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife; father; and granddaughter, Mae.
A celebration of life will be from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 12 at the Giovannetti Community Shelter at Walker Johnston Park, 9000 Douglas Ave., Urbandale. All are welcome. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.

Priscilla Delina Lorber

Priscilla Delina Lorber, 98, died on May 27, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice in Johnston. Private graveside services were held at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Priscilla was born in Fort Kent, Maine. She married Richard Lorber on April 27, 1946, in Burlington. They moved to Des Moines in 1953, where they raised their two children. She attended St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church and was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.
Priscilla is survived by her daughter, Paulette (Paul) Hartney; son, Richard Dennis (Corey) Lorber; grandchildren, Christopher Hartney, Alison (Matthew) Genotte, Joseph Lorber and Alexandra (Austin) Coulter, and great grandchildren, Jack, Shaun and Abigail Genotte. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; five brothers and two sisters. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements were handled by Iles Westover Chapel.

Carol Louise (Hendrickson) Crane

Carol Louise (Hendrickson) Crane, 82, of Johnston, died May 30, 2022. Carol was born in Northwood. She graduated from Northwood High School in 1957, then Iowa State Teachers College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and English in 1961. She later earned a master’s degree in mathematics from UNI. In 1961, Carol and Robert “Bob” Crane were married. During Bob’s 26-year Marine Corps service, Carol received teaching certificates in many states and taught mathematics her entire career to middle, high school and collegiate students, including teaching in Okinawa, Japan. Carol and her husband began funding an annual scholarship for UNI students with a mathematics education major in 2009. Carol enjoyed mentoring confirmation students at St. James Lutheran Church and served as a church teller for many years. She also served on the Johnston Library Foundation Board and was an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Carol is survived by her children, Diane (Gary) Bridgewater and Rob Crane; three grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; and two brothers. She was preceded in death by her husband. Family and close friends will celebrate her life on July 9 in Northwood.

Betty Hawthorne

Betty (Bauer) Hawthorne, 76, of Johnston, formerly of Ankeny, died May 28, 2022. Betty was born in St. Mary’s. She received her education at St. Mary’s and graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy in Des Moines. She worked for Farm Bureau for a time before joining Mercy Hospital where she worked as a switchboard operator and later transferred to the transplant unit. She married John McCabe, and they had a daughter, Kelsie. John and Betty later divorced. She then married Lloyd Hawthorne and they made their home in Ankeny.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband Lloyd and sister Ruth (Larry) McKim. Betty is survived by her daughter, Kelsie McCabe (Rob Formaro); grandsons Colton and Cohen; sister Rita Primmer; brother Virgil (Marilyn) Bauer Jr.; and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were Thursday, June 2 at the Iles Grandview Park Funeral Home.

Ralph William Graham

Ralph Graham, 69, died May 20, 2022, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born in Des Moines. Ralph worked as sanitation supervisor for Marzetti Frozen Pasta Inc. in Altoona. He is survived by his brothers Paul (Kathi) Graham, Timothy (Doris) Graham, and Jon Mark Gilbert; and sisters Deborah (Ernie) Mickle and Diane Graham. Ralph was preceded in death by his brother Roy Graham.
A funeral service was held Wednesday, June 1 at Berean Assembly of God Church in Pleasant Hill. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Thoi Van Nguyễn

Thoi Van Nguyen died May 28, 2022. He was born in Hue, Vietnam to Kien and Phan Nguyen. He joined the 20th class of the Junior Military Academy of the Vietnamese National Army (TVBQVN) in Vung Tau, Vietnam in 1963 and graduated in 1965. He then served in the 21st division in Ca Mau, Vietnam, as a military official. He was then promoted to the position of District Major of Kien Hung, Chieng Thien.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Tu Nguyen; children Nga (Binh), Phuc (Mai), Ky (Huong), Hung (Oanh), Bich, and Thoa (An); 12 grandchildren; one granddaughter-in-law; three great-grandchildren; and four siblings. He was preceded in death by his siblings So and Lan, and son Tho.
A mass of Catholic burial was held at noon on Thursday, June 2 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

Patricia Lee Coffey

Patricia Lee Coffey, 84, died May 29, 2022. Pat was born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Illinois and graduated from Kincaid High School in 1956. She married Clyde Leroy Coffey in 1958. They moved to Waukee in 1979 and have made Waukee their home ever since. Pat was a dedicated and skilled mailing machine operator and spent time at Franklin Life Insurance Company and Time Life Books before finishing her career in the retail sector working at Marshalls. Pat was a faithful member of Waukee United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her sons Ron (Jewel) and Tim, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a sister. She was preceded in death by her husband, daughter-in-law Melissa Coffey, and siblings Mike Jr., Kathy and Paulette.
A funeral service was held Thursday, June 2 at Ernst Funeral Home, Waukee.

Otho Loren Stout

Otho Loren Stout, 88, of Waukee, died May 27, 2022, at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center. He was born in Murray, grew up in the Peru area and graduated from Winterset High School. He married Niquita Kay Ford in 1959. Loren served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict on shore duty in the Philippines and aboard the USS Manchester. He attended trade schools in Missouri and Florida before starting his career in the trucking industry as a diesel mechanic. Loren spent time at Cummins Mid-West, American Freight Systems and O’Halloran International.
He is survived by his wife, children Douglas Loren Stout and Cynthia Kay (Gary) DePond, two grandsons, sister-in-law Helen Stout and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jody DeVerne Stout.
Visitation was held Wednesday, June 1 at Ernst Funeral Home in Waukee, followed by a procession to Iowa Veterans Cemetery for a military graveside service.

Betty Lavon Rinehart

Betty Lavon (Rankin) Rinehart, 94, died May 25, 2022, at The Village in Indianola. Betty was born in Marion County to Stanley and Ethel (Whitlatch) Rankin. She attended Tracy High School and graduated as the secretary and treasurer of her high school class. Betty went on to beauty school in Ottumwa. She met Nelson Rinehart after World War II, and they were married in 1948. Out of this union, six children were born. Betty was employed as a bank teller for many years in Des Moines and also worked in retail in her retirement years in Indianola. She was a member of local book clubs and liked to attend movies at the Paramount Theaters in Indianola for many years, even serving as the local movie critic. Betty was a faithful member of the Methodist Church in Indianola.
Betty is survived by her six children, Jon Rinehart (Mary Cass), Mike Rinehart (Patti), Belinda Pfaff (Charlie), Cindy Hosburgh (Peter), Robyn Copeland (Dan Howell) and Nealia Herberger (Dean); 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; an infant child; siblings Bob, Larry, Leland and Marilyn; and grandson, Lucas.
Private family services will be held at a later date. Condolences may be expressed at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola.

Reginald Lee Molln

Reginald Lee Molln, 71, of Indianola died May 24, 2022, after a hard-fought battle with bladder cancer. Reg was born in Greenfield. After high school graduation, He moved to Des Moines where he attended United Electronics Trade School. In Des Moines, he met and fell in love with Sandy “Sam” Warburton. They married in 1972 and were married for almost 50 years. They made their home in Des Moines until 1987 before relocating to Indianola. Reg and Sandy both worked at Northwestern Bell Phone Company for 30 years before retiring in 2003. Reg continued working after his retirement and worked at Mediacom for an additional five years before fully retiring in 2008.
He is survived by his wife; sons, Matthew (Christina) and Nicholas; granddaughter; great-grandson; brother; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family. Per his wishes, no services are planned at this time. Online condolences can be expressed at www.petersonfuneralservice.com

Connie Jean Gonzales

Connie Jean Gonzales, 63, of Indianola, died May 27, 2022, in Des Moines. Connie is survived by her children, Stephany Gonzales and Paul (Jerica) Gonzales; nine grandchildren, Kasey, Emily, Dominic, Malikye, Aaliyah, Nicholas, Christian, Shawn and Samantha; siblings, Charles Grant and Sandy Brown.
A private family celebration of life service will be held at a later date. To sign an online condolence, visit www.overtonfunerals.com.

Bettie June (Keller) Riggs

Bettie June (Keller) Riggs, 72, died May 11, 2022, at UnityPoint Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Bettie was born in Newton and graduated from Newton High School in 1967. She attended Des Moines Area Community College in West Des Moines for secretarial/clerical. Bettie worked in downtown Des Moines for Look Magazine, Des Moines Stationery Company, and Ohio Casualty Insurance Company.
Bettie met her future husband, Thomas Riggs, by chance in September 1971. They married in 1972. The family moved to Norwalk in 1975. Bettie worked as a secretary/office manager for the Village of Lakewood and as a legal secretary for many years. She retired from Equifax in 2014.
Bettie was a member of Norwalk United Methodist Church for more than 40 years. She taught Sunday School for many years. She was also part of the United Methodist Women’s group, served on the board of directors for Bidwell Riverside, and was a member of the Lakewood Sailing Club.
She is survived by her husband; children, Ryan (Cathy) Riggs and Michael (Nicole) Riggs; five grandchildren; two brothers; sister-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by brothers Kevin and Harold Keller and sister Barbara Keller.
A memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 2 at the Norwalk United Methodist Church, 1100 Gordon Ave., Norwalk. A celebration of life will follow from noon to 2 p.m. at the Echo Valley Country Club, 3150 Echo Valley Drive, Norwalk.

James Patrick Downey

James Patrick Downey, 91, died April 23, 2022. Services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi in West Des Moines at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 4. J. Patrick was born in Menlo. He graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1948 and worked for The Des Moines Register for 15 years in the business office before moving to Pasadena, California, where he was employed by the Los Angeles Times as the general accounting manager for 25 years. He retired in 1992. In retirement, Pat enjoyed many years as a volunteer. He returned to Des Moines in 2012 and lived at Edgewater in West Des Moines.
He was preceded in death by three sisters, Anne Porterfield, Colatte Downey and Mary Agnes Simons. Pat is survived by nieces, Lisa Stang and Laura Luke, and nephews, Mark and Mike Simons. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Julia A. Hunt

Julia A. Hunt died May 25, 2022. She was born in Spencer in 1941 and raised in Tabor where she graduated from high school in 1959. During her sophomore year, she met a boy from the next town who became the love of her life. Julia and Jon were married in 1959 and had three children: Marty, Lori and Brad. Julia was a faithful member of the Community of Christ Church in West Des Moines.
She was preceded in death by her husband; sisters Jean Griffiths and Cheryl Taeusler; and grandson Nathaniel Cornelius. She is survived by children Marty (Jennifer) Hunt, Lori (Joel) Whelchel, Brad (Kristin) Hunt; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25 at Community of Christ Church, 4504 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Mark Steven Soldat

Mark Steven Soldat, 75, died April 18, 2022, at Arbor Springs in West Des Moines. He was born in Webster City. He graduated from Johnston High School in 1965. In 1969, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Grinnell University. He went on to study law at Drake University and graduated with a degree in 1974. He practiced law in Algona from 1974 to 2003. During that time, he also served as the Kossuth County Attorney. He spent the latter half of his career practicing law in the Des Moines area and was prominent in the field of workers compensation law. Mark was particularly proud of being a founding member of the Iowa Association for Justice Workers’ Compensation Core Group, his numerous Iowa Supreme Court cases establishing legal precedent which benefitted injured workers, and the fact that he actively practiced law and tried cases for 47 years.
He is survived by his partner, Jeanne Anderson; children, Nathan (Sela) and Jesse; their mother, Marcia Soldat; two grandchildren; and three siblings.
Celebrate Mark’s life from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 16 at Bob Shetler Picnic Area, Shelter 2, N.E. Warrior Ave., Johnston. Family, friends and colleagues are welcome. While there isn’t a formal program, anyone who wants to share sentiments, memories or stories may do so at noon. Light food and drinks will be served. RSVP no later than Friday, June 10 at http://evite.me/xdHDkvSRVs. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Patricia Christensen

Patricia Christensen, 79, died Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. Pat was born in Des Moines. She resided in Stuart until her high school graduation in 1960. After her retirement from insurance, Pat enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She helped teach English as a second language.
She is survived by her daughter, Beth Dailey; sister, Judy Cropp; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and many friends. Graveside services were Tuesday, May 31 at Van Meter City Cemetery. Online condolences can be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Sally Ann Donovan Latta

Sally Ann (Donovan) Latta, 88, died May 26, 2022. She grew up in West Des Moines, where her parents owned Clover Hills Golf Course. She graduated high school from St. Joseph Academy and was a life-time supporter of St. Joseph and Dowling. She received a bachelor’s degree in education from Marycrest College in Davenport. After graduation, she taught junior high English in Bettendorf. In 1958, a new history teacher, Paul Latta, was hired to work in the adjacent classroom. They fell in love and were married for 60 years. In 1969, they had the opportunity to manage/own Ponderosa Golf Course in West Des Moines. They owned it for 35 years until they sold it in 2005.
Sally is survived by her daughters, Catherine Latta (Eric) Jorgensen and Mary Latta (Michael) Thilges; four grandchildren; two great grandsons, and other relatives. She is preceded in death by her husband.
Funeral services will be June 21 at Sacred Heart Church, West Des Moines. Visitation is 9:30-10:30 a.m. followed by mass at 10:30 a.m.

Julio Cesar Gamboa Vázquez

Julio Cesar Gamboa Vázquez, 46, died May 22, 2022, at Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born in Mexico City and moved to the U.S. at age 18. He married Maricarmen in 2014 in West Des Moines. Julio was a talented chef who spent time at numerous Des Moines restaurants, including Dos Ríos, Malo, Biaggi’s and most recently, Centro.
Julio is survived by his wife; children Alan Lozano and Danna Lozano; mother Angelina Vázquez Martinez; and siblings Sergio, Miguel Alejandro, Ricardo Javier and Yuliana Elizabeth.
The family celebrated Julio’s life with a private prayer service prior to cremation rites. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services of Waukee was entrusted with Julio’s final arrangements.

Richard Dean Johnson

Richard “Dick” Dean Johnson, 87, died May 26, 2022, after a 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born to Harry and Clarice Johnson in Spencer, Nebraska. After graduating from Spencer High School in 1952, he earned a degree from General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan, and in 1954, pursued a business administration with accounting degree from Drake University, then earned his CPA in 1963. After working a short time with the Auditor of State staff as director of audits in 1968, Dick was appointed as director of finance with the Iowa Highway Commission. In 1975, when it was reorganized as the Department of Transportation, he served as director of the Administration Division and director of the Motor Vehicle Division. In 1979, Dick was appointed by Gov. Robert Ray to serve as State Auditor. He loyally served the citizens of Iowa as the state’s financial “watchdog” until his retirement in 2002. Dick continued to share his expertise with the financial boards of local companies, including Vision Bank of Iowa, PMMIC and Lincolnway Energy.
In 1956, Dick married Marjorie Sire of Butte, Nebraska. They had four children. He was a member of the Nebraska and Iowa National Guard from 1955-1990. After retirement, he participated in the local American Legion chapter. Dick served as city clerk and mayor for the town of Sheldahl from 1959-1975. He was a farm owner and member of the Boone County Farm Bureau, Madrid Evangelical Free Church and Rotary Club.
Dick was preceded in death by his siblings, Glennis, Dorothy and Leonard; and two grandsons. He is survived by his wife; sisters Lucille and Lila; children, DeAnn (Brian) Thompson, JoAnn (Stephen) Leach, LeAnn (Kevin) Houlette, and David (Mary) Johnson; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
Visitation was on Tuesday, May 31 at Madrid Evangelical Free Church. A funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 1, also at the church.

Marissa Ruffolo

Marissa Christine Ruffolo, 28, died May 19, 2022. Marissa grew up in Franklin, Wisconsin. She moved to Iowa in 2011, graduated with the class of 2012 from Ankeny High School, and has called Ankeny home ever since. She is survived by her daughter, Aubree; parents, Michael Ruffolo and Debbie (Al) Grabarczyk; and brothers Nicholas (Sarah) and Christopher.
A celebration of Marissa’s life will be 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, June 4 at Cherry Glen Picnic Site No. 4 in Ankeny.

Callen Robert Woolery

Callen Robert Woolery, 6 weeks old, died May 19, 2022, at Blank Children’s Hospital. He was born on April 8, 2022, the son of Brandon and Amy Woolery. Callen, along with his twin brother, Maverick, decided to come into this world early at 27 weeks. Although Callen was only here for six weeks, he touched the hearts of many.
In addition to his parents, Callen is survived by his twin brother; sisters Breckyn, Sloane and Harlow; grandparents Dale and Sally Woolery and Mary Young; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 2 at Ankeny First United Methodist Church, 206 S.W. Walnut St., Ankeny. Visitation is one hour prior. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Zetta Irene Gruver

Zetta Irene Gruver, 92, died under hospice care in Ankeny on May 12, 2022. She married Maynard Gruver in 1948. They had three children: William, Linda and Steven.
Zetta was preceded in death by her husband, son William, and great-granddaughter Kaylee. She is survived by her children, Linda (Denny) Anderson and Steve (Virginia) Gruver, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. There will be a private memorial at a later date.

Jerry William Helmke

Jerry William Helmke, 88, died May 23, 2022, at Sunny View Care Center in Ankeny. Jerry was born in Renwick and graduated from Renwick High School in 1952. He worked at Gilmer Creamery in Eagle Grove, Renwick Chevrolet and Renwick Creamery. The Helmke farm was the first to receive electricity in Wright County.
In 1957, Jerry married Mardelle Joyce Larson. They lived in Renwick until they moved to Humboldt in 1959, where they raised five children. He started working for REC in 1957 and worked there until he retired in April 1996 as a foreman.
Jerry is survived by his children, Angela (Jeff) Paulson, Shelly (Randy) Hatch, Mitchell Helmke, Carmala (John) Pitt, and Jennifer (Tim) Kapsch; 13 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; sister Jancie Basler; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife; an infant son; two infant grandchildren; a brother; and three sisters.
Per Jerry’s, wishes his body has been cremated. A private family service will be held at a later date.