Iowa Living Magazines

Ruth Joanne Dutcher

Ruth Joanne (Thomas) Dutcher, 93, died April 28, 2022, from complications of Alzheimer’s. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 4 at the United Methodist Church in Indianola, with visitation one hour prior. Ruth was born in Carlisle. She graduated from Carlisle High School in 1946 then enrolled in Simpson College, where she studied music. She then moved to Des Moines and worked for the Credit Bureau. She joined the choir at the Methodist Church and met Herbert Dutcher. They were married on Feb. 3, 1951, and settled in the Beaverdale area. The family moved to Centerville in 1958, Osceola in 1961, then settled in Indianola in 1963. They became members of the United Methodist Church, where Ruth served on committees, taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and played in the hand bell choir. Ruth was active in the PTA of Emerson Elementary and served as a leader of the Quadettes 4-H group. Ruth was part of the Red Hat Society, sang with the Indianola Sweet Adelines, and was an active member of the Carlisle Alumni Association.
Ruth worked part time at Bankers Life (now Principal Financial Group) then was hired in 1969 to work at Peoples Trust and Savings Bank. She retired in 1993. Ruth and Herb sold their home in 2019 and moved to Vintage Hills in Indianola. In January, Ruth was moved to the Good Samaritan Care Center.
Survivors include her husband; daughters Claudia (Joe) Tillman, Janet (Allan Fuller) Dutcher and Cyndi Niemeyer; son Dean (Leah Rolan) Dutcher; seven grandchildren 13 great-grandchildren; sister and many nieces and nephews.

Jane Ruby

Elizabeth Jane Ruby, 103, died on May 5, 2022, at Kavanagh House. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 at West Des Moines United Methodist Church, 720 Grand Ave. A private family burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery. She was born in Mason City and graduated from Rudd High School in 1937, earned a bachelor’s degree in music education at Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) in 1941, a master’s degree in education at Drake University, and post-graduate music studies at the University of Iowa.
Jane had a 42-year career teaching music in Collins, Miles, Leon, Hampton, Fairfield and Des Moines, ending her career as acting associate professor of music education at Drake University. In retirement, Jane was a mentor, accompanist, and arranger for the WDM United Methodist Church Celebration Quartet for more than 19 years. Jane belonged to many organizations including SAI Music Fraternity, Treble Clef, PEO, and was an active member of WDM UMC for more than 40 years. She lived at Scottish Rite Park for 25 years.
She married Lloyd Ruby in 1948, and he preceded her in death in 1995. Jane is survived by six nieces and nephews as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

Evelyn Maxine Morlan

Evelyn Morlan, 97, died May 6, 2022, at Arbor Springs in West Des Moines. She was born the daughter of Swedish immigrants in Des Moines. Evelyn was an East High graduate. She worked for Iowa Des Moines Bank for more than 20 years.
She is survived by her son, Robert Morlan, grandchildren Brian and Michael (Lara) Morlan, and her great-grandchildren Violet and Ruby. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Morlan Sr., and her siblings, Robert “R.O.” Oscar, Mildred, Louise and Russell. A private family service was at Glendale Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

James Edward Brown

James “Jim” Edward Brown, 95, died April 23, 2022. He was born in Fort Madison. Upon graduation from high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and became a pilot. On Feb. 9, 1951, he married Beverly Brown of Fort Madison, and she joined him at Moffett Airfield in California. Shortly after Beverly’s death in 2017, Jim moved to West Des Moines. He resided at Arbor Springs until his death. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and his sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Edwin Clark. He is survived by his nieces and nephew. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Van Meter.

Ralph renteria west des moines ia obituary

Ralph Renteria, Sr.

Ralph Renteria Sr., 91, of West Des Moines died on April 27, 2022. Ralph was born in Blue Earth, Minnesota. He was a lifelong resident of Valley Junction. He retired from the Rock Island Railroad and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Surviving are his daughters, Erlinda Renteria and Cynthia Carreras, and son, Ralph Renteria Jr; siblings Robert, John and Rosie; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Frances, and son, Ricky. Private funeral services will be held and burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery.

George A. Russell III

George A. Russell III, 74, of West Des Moines was born in Boston, Massachusetts. As a son of a Navy officer, he grew up all around the United States, landing in Champaign, Illinois, where he met his bride of 56 years, Patricia (Phillips) Russell. Together Trish and George had three children. In 1970, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and obtained his professional engineering license. He pursued a career in civil engineering while obtaining his master’s degree from the University of Illinois in 1973. He retired as the vice president of operations and distribution after 25 years at Northern Illinois Water. He went on to become a full-time partner with McClure Engineering Associates, Inc. as their chief water manager for an additional 20 years. George was an active member of Rotary International beginning 1976. He was the president of the Macomb, Illinois, Rotary Club from 2008-2009.
He is survived by his wife; children, Elizabeth Russell-Kittl, George A. Russell IV (Martha) and Abbie Paul (Corey), and many other relatives.
The family will greet friends at 10 a.m., followed by a celebration of life service at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 13, in the chapel at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines. A luncheon follows in The Bridge. The service will be live streamed at http://hopeonline.tv/specialevents.

Ferne Elizabeth Olson

Ferne Elizabeth Olson, 98, died May 1, 2022, in West Des Moines. Services were held May 6 at Westover Funeral Home. Burial followed at St. Charles Cemetery in St. Charles. Ferne was born in Truro. She graduated from Truro High School and continued her education at A.I.B. in Des Moines. Ferne served in the U.S. Women’s Marine Corp. Division from 1944-1946. Ferne worked at Iowa Farm Bureau, Standard-Oil Company, and as a secretary at Drake University in the athletics department. She was a former member of Quester Group 57.
After serving in the military, she met Ernest “Ernie” Olson. Together they had three children and raised them in Des Moines. Ferne is survived by her children, Randy C. Olson, Barbara (Mark) Hunget and Richard A. Olson; three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and her brother Robert Buchanan.

Jo Ann Gaps

Jo Ann “Jo” Gaps, 91, died April 22, 2022. She will be laid to rest with her husband, Johnny, during a private burial at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter. Jo was born in Davenport, Oklahoma, to Shirley Barksdale Gibson and Beverly Edward Gibson. She attended the National School of Business and worked at 20th Century Fox in Oklahoma City upon graduation. She and her husband, Air Force Staff Sergeant John “Johnny” Gaps, Jr., were married for 52 years.
Jo and Johnny settled in West Des Moines in 1970. Jo had a career spanning more than 20 years with Northwestern Bell and U.S. West. After retirement, Jo continued to work at various businesses, including Elliott Aviation, and volunteered at schools and other organizations.
Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny, and two sisters. She is survived by her children, Julie Thomasson (Kevin), John Gaps III, and Jeri Williams (Greg); several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, one sister and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, June 4 at Johnny’s Steakhouse, 6075 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines.

Alice ‘Janet’ Townsend

Jan Townsend, 74, was born in West Des Moines. She graduated from Valley High School in 1956. In 1960, she married Norman Townsend and had three daughters and a stepson. They spent most of their years on a farm near St. Charles. Jan had several office jobs, but the longest one lasted 26 years at Norwest Bank/Wells Fargo.
Jan is survived by her husband of 62 years; daughters, Becky (Britt) Davis, Amy (Brian) Pickering and Chris (Steve) Karpowich; stepson, Norman A. (Susan); eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and sister, Kay (Susie) Fisher. She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Jean Harmon. A visitation was held Monday, May 9 at Brooks Funeral Care in Clive. A celebration of life was held on Tuesday, May 10 at West Des Moines Christian Church.

Grace Elizabeth Havens Day

Grace Elizabeth Havens Day (Cook), 91, died May 5, 2022, at Norwalk Nursing and Rehab. Born in Rock Island, Illinois, her family relocated to Des Moines in 1944. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1948 and graduated with an associate’s degree from Drake University in 1980. In the summer of 1946, Grace was teaching swim lessons at Ashworth Pool when she met a lifeguard named Warren Ed Havens. They married at Central Presbyterian Church in 1950 and had two children.
She worked for the Iowa Liquor Commission until her first child was born. She returned to the workforce after her children started school and was the manager of The Merry-Go-Round toy store. She managed the Toy Fair toy store for 10 years. She then was recruited to manage the Varsity Cycle and Hobby Shop. She went on to manage the Corwin Cleaners in Beaverdale for several years until she made a career change and went to work for Neff Insurance. Grace founded Havens Tours and Convention Services, operating it until her retirement at age 70.
Grace was a member of several Masonic organizations, a member and past president of the Des Moines Business and Professional Women, and a member of the DSM Convention and Business Bureau, Johnston Chamber of Commerce, American Legion Argon Auxiliary and the Red Hats.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren, in 2001; second husband, Clyde Howard Day, in 2013; brother James; niece Linda; and infant daughter Virginia. She is survived by her children, Cliff (Jodi) Havens and Elizabeth (James) Lee; two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life was held on Tuesday, May 10 at Westover Funeral Home in Des Moines. Online condolences can be expressed at www.IlesCares.com.

Vivian Essick

Vivian Essick of Norwalk died May 5, 2022. She lived in Norwalk and graduated from Norwalk High School in 1948. Vivian met Kenneth Essick and was married in 1949. They raised three daughters. Vivian worked for Central Life and Preferred Risk (GuideOne) and retired in 1988.
Vivian was preceded in death by her husband in 2021, parents, three brothers, one sister, and one brother-in-law. She is survived by three daughters: Linda (John) Woollums, Donna (Rick) Bussanmas, and Deb (Pat) Scholer; six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Visitation was held at O’Leary Celebration of Life Center in Norwalk on Sunday, May 8, with a funeral on Monday, May 9.

Patricia Winchell

Patricia Winchell, 90, died May 1, 2022, at Southern Hills Specialty Care in Osceola. Private family services will be held later this month. Patricia was born and raised on a farm in rural Norwalk. She moved to Des Moines after marrying Dean Winchell. In 1955, they moved back to Norwalk, and she lived there until moving to the care facility in Osceola.
Patricia is survived by her sons, Rex Winchell and Greg Winchell; daughter, Sheri Winchell; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Ronda Beck; half-sister, Christine Roux; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Winchell.

Patricia Marie Shadle

Patricia Marie Shadle, 86, died May 6, 2022, at Norwalk Nursing Home. She was born in Chicago, Illinois. She is survived by her niece, Jacque (Eric) Schey. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Jack Castelline and Jimmy Shadle; and sister in infancy, Janice Jo Castelline.
Graveside services were held Wednesday, May 11 at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 N.E. 60th Ave., Des Moines. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Martha Jane Becker

Martha Jane Becker, 98, of Norwalk died May 8, 2022. A visitation for Martha will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, May 12 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th St., West Des Moines. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 13 at the chapel.

Richard Keith Henn

Richard Keith Henn, 79, of Ankeny died April 28, 2022. A celebration of life was held Thursday, May 5 at Ankeny First United Methodist Church, 206 S.W. Walnut St. Richard was born in Belmond and graduated from Belmond High School in 1961. He then went to Drake University in Des Moines where he studied accounting. He married Karen Nielsen in August 1965. He graduated from Drake in 1966 and went to work for John Deere in accounting and computer programming. He was promoted to Deere’s world headquarters in Moline, Illinois, but gave up this position to move his family back to Ankeny where they have lived for more than 50 years.
Richard is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karen; his children, Kimberly (Glenn) Hammer, Kevin (Kylie) Henn and Kyle (Stacy) Henn; grandchildren and siblings.

Jean Annis Knudsen

Jean Annis Knudsen, 95, of Ankeny, died at Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines on May 2, 2022. Jean was born in Moravia. She attended community schools in Moravia, graduating in 1943, then attended AIB in Des Moines. She married Al Knudsen in 1946. They had two daughters and two sons. Her husband and son Dennis preceded her in death.
She worked for 40 years before retiring in 1986. During her career, Jean held many positions including secretary at Lutheran Services, secretary at Preferred Risk Insurance Company and office manager at the Iowa Utility Association. Jean was active in numerous organizations throughout her life including St. Mark Church, WDM Women’s Club, Le Cercle d’Amis Sorority and serving as a volunteer at Lutheran Hospital.
She is survived by daughters Jan (Bob) Swanson and Kathy (Dennis) Johnson; son, John (Sabine) Knudsen; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and one great grandchild.
A private family graveside service was held May 7 at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at a later time.

Diana Niccola Piagentini Houge

Diana Niccola Piagentini Houge, 90, of Ankeny died May 3, 2022. Diana was born in Des Moines. A visitation for Diana will be held Tuesday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to noon at Ankeny Funeral Home, 1510 W. First St., Ankeny, followed by a funeral service at noon. Diana will be laid to rest in Ankeny Memorial Gardens.

Marlys Puchta

Marlys Puchta, 93, died on May 4, 2022. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 11, at Ankeny Memorial Gardens. She is survived by her daughter, Gayle (Charlie) Gorman; son, Bradley (Doreen) Puchta; daughter, Yvette (Kerry) Johnson; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Rev. Judith Ann Short

Rev. Judith Ann Short, 80, died April 29, 2022, at Rock Creek Senior Living in Ankeny. She and her husband lived on the south side of Des Moines for many years, and she continued to live there after his death before moving to her townhouse in Ankeny in July of 2020. Judi was born on July 12, 1941, in Omaha, Nebraska. She married James Short on Oct. 5, 1962. She retired in 2000 from the State of Iowa where she worked in the IPERS Department for 39 years. Judi was a member of the Park Avenue Christian Church and, in December of 2012, she was ordained as an independent Christian clergy authorized to perform all ministerial duties.
Judi was preceded in death by her husband. She is survived by her sisters, Irene and Maggie; several family members and loving friends. A graveside service was held Wednesday, May 4 at the Masonic Cemetery in Des Moines. The family respectfully requests no memorials.

Gary Bissig

Gary James Bissig, 34, of Ankeny, died May 4, 2022. He was born in Mason City and graduated from Mason City High School in 2006 and then Iowa State University with an advertising degree in 2011. He married Jacob James McLaughlin on July 10, 2021. He worked for the Hach Company in Ames.
He is survived by his husband, parents, brother Brad (Tara) Bissig, sister Amy (Adam) Pedersen, grandmother, Charlotte Bissig and many uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. Funeral services were Tuesday, May 10 at First Christian Church in Perry. Burial will be in the Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry. Carris Family Funeral Home & Cremation Care was in charge of arrangements.

Peggy Purdy

Peggy Purdy, 84, died May 4, 2022. A celebration of life service will beheld at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11, also at Memorial Services of Iowa Funeral Home, 4208 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny. She was born in Sac City and raised in the Des Moines and Ankeny area. Peggy retired from Ramsey Home after 17 years of service. After retirement, she went to work in the cafeteria at North High School.
Peggy is survived by her husband of 66 years, Don; her daughters, Linda (Joel) Jensen, Donna (Randy) Mulder, Sue (Monte) Roberts and Carla (Jerry) Gumpert; 11 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Doris Mae Smith

Doris Mae Smith, 95, of Ankeny died May 4, 2022. A funeral service was held Tuesday, May 10 at Ankeny Baptist Church. Burial followed at Ankeny Memorial Gardens. Doris was born in Coatsville, Missouri. She married Robert Vernon Smith on June 1, 1945. She is survived by two sons, Garry (Shelly) Smith and Greg Smith; a daughter, Vicki Rich; sister, Jeanette Smith; brother, Ronald Childs; eight grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and three great-great granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her husband; son, John Smith; two grandsons; and five siblings.

Leonard Belgarde

Leonard Belgarde, 69, died April 22, 2022, at Azria Health in Winterset. Leonard was born in Dexter. He received his teaching degree and enjoyed his career as a truck driver. He is survived by his brothers, Larry, Howard and Roger; and girlfriend, Dianna Sickles. No services are planned at this time. To send flowers to the family of Leonard, visit caldwellparrish.com.

Agnes Jeanette LaValley

Agnes Jeanette LaValley, 88, died Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Iles Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center. Private inurnment will be held at Dallas Center Cemetery in Dallas Center.
Agnes was born in Woodward. The family moved to rural Dallas Center and later to town where her father worked for Brenton Farms. She graduated from Dallas Center High School. After graduation she lived at Esther Hall in Des Moines and worked at Northwestern Bell Telephone. She married Charles R. LaValley in 1952. They made their home on farms in Granger, Herrold and later in Dallas Center in 1961. They had two children, Linda and Richard.
Agnes worked at Look Magazine in Des Moines, Brenton State Bank in Dallas Center and Agri Grain Marketing in West Des Moines. After retirement she worked at Brandt Funeral Home in Dallas Center.
Her husband preceded her in death. She is survived by her children, Linda (Dennis) Shelley and Richard (Linda) LaValley; and many other relatives. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.

Aime Jo Beeks

Aime Jo Beeks, 52, daughter and step-daughter of Marilyn and Duane Long and the late Douglas H. Beeks, died May 4, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice House in Johnston. She was born in Bethany, Missouri, and is survived by her brother Dr. Duane Long, Jr. and step-sisters Lisa Mickels, Monica Gillenwater and Lorida Boyle and families.
Aime graduated from Urbandale High School, Ellsworth Community College, and Iowa State University. She served 11 years in the U.S. Army, seven of those on active duty as a mental health specialist. She was employed by Cintas First Aid and Safety in Grimes for 21 years. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18 at Urbandale United Church of Christ, 3530 70th St.

Mickey Lee Secory

Mickey Lee Secory, 63, died April 23, 2022, at Perry Lutheran Home in Perry. The family received friends May 7 at Westover Funeral Home in Des Moines. Mickey was born in Mason City. He married Laura in 1990, and they enjoyed 26 years.
Mick worked as a regional manager for USIC for 10 years and in the industry for 20 years. Mick is survived by the mother of his children, Laura (Scott) McAtee; children, Matt (Shayla Christensen) Secory, Paulina (Chace) Chambers, and Nick Secory; and grandchildren, Landon, Jaxon and Mila Secory.

Robert N. ‘Bob’ McClelland

Robert “Bob” McClelland, 87, died May 3, 2022, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born in Chicago, Illinois. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and was stationed in San Diego. He worked for John Deere Manufacturing, retiring after 30 years.
Bob is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; son, Kirk (Terri); grandchildren, Rustin, Sarah, Mariah (Cherie), and Matthew (Jeni); five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Douglas (Lori) McClelland; and siblings, Jimmy McClelland and Dorothy Moore.
Private family services were held at Warren Powers Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Wanda J. Smoldt

Wanda J Smoldt, 85, died April 27, 2022, in Urbandale after a long struggle with dementia. Wanda was born in Beatrice, Nebraska, and was a resident of Urbandale for the past 53 years. She married her husband, Richard, in 1954 and was married to him for 67 years. Together they have five children.
Wanda is survived by her husband, Richard Smoldt; five children, Doug (Gloria), Terri (Richard) Zimmerman, Scott Smoldt, Curt (Leeann), Jyl (Mike) Wyckoff; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. There will be a family-only graveside service.

Eugene Charles Kragenbrink

Eugene Charles Kragenbrink, 86, died April 23, 2022. A memorial service was held Friday, April 29 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Ankeny. Burial was at Highland Memory Gardens. A full obituary is available at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Karen M. Pauly

Karen M. Pauly, 80, died Sunday, April 24, 2022. She married Michael Pauly on June 17, 1961, and settled in as wife, mother and homemaker. For awhile, she worked in the editorial department at The Des Moines Register.
She is survived by her husband, Mike; children, Lisa (Mitch) Hushak, Lonnie (Dallas) Palmer, Steven (Patty) and Marshall (Kate); and other relatives. A full obituary is available at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Beverly A. Long

Beverly A. Long, 89, of Polk City, died Friday, April 22, 2022, at Senior Suites of Urbandale. A funeral service was held Saturday, April 30 at Memorial Services of Iowa. Burial followed at Lincoln Cemetery in Alleman.
Bev was born in Seneca. She was married to Charles (Chuck) Long on June 7, 1953, in Des Moines. She was a retired U.S. Postal Service employee. She is survived by her four children, Mark “Jed” (Teri) Long, Ric (Elaine) Long, Dianne (Scott) Elsasser and Sherri Lane, and other relatives. Her husband preceded her in death.

Royce Thompson

Royce Thompson, 73, died Saturday, April 23, 2022 at home. He was born in Buffalo Center, graduated from Elmore (Minnesota) High School and attended Luther College in Decorah. Following careers in law enforcement and EMS, he returned to school and graduated from Control Data Institute in Minneapolis. He spent the next 21 years working as a copier service technician, retiring in 2005. Royce married Susan Siekmann on May 22, 1971. They had one daughter, Beth, who lives in Indianola. Both are surviving.
Royce and Susan retired to a small acreage, where they maintained a large vegetable garden, restored prairie and tended flowerbeds. When not working in their yard, Royce enjoyed fishing and woodworking.
A celebration of life service was held Friday, April 29 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Indianola.

Jimmy Dale Dixon

Jimmy Dale Dixon, 81, died April 21, 2022, at UnityPoint Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. A memorial service celebrating the lives of Jimmy and his late wife, Gladys, was held April 30 at The Village in Indianola.
He was born in Davis County, graduated from Bloomfield High School and received a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from Iowa State University. He married Gladys Toyne on Nov. 30, 1968, in Boxholm. They lived on a farm in Davis County and welcomed their son Dan in 1971. They briefly lived in Illinois for three years before moving to Norwalk in 1979. Besides being a farmer and involved in the farming industry, Jimmy also prepared taxes for H&R Block for 16 years. He enjoyed being a member of the Norwalk Lions Club and the Norwalk United Methodist Church.
Jimmy is survived by his son, Dan (Chris) Dixon of Norwalk, as well as his grandsons Braydyn and Hunter.

Roberta Lois Fry

Roberta Lois Fry, 78, died Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022, at home. A celebration of life was held April 30 at the American Legion Post #165 in Indianola. She is survived by her husband, Lon Fry; children, Mike (Debbie) Fry, Tammy (Mike) Thuney, Londa (Chris) Hodson and Lorrie Fry; and many other relatives and friends.

John Earl Hausafus

John Earl Hausafus, 75, of West Des Moines, died Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice in Johnston. John was born in Marshalltown. A memorial service was held Tuesday, May 3 at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in West Des Moines.
John graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1965 and served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970. After completing his service, he earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture at Iowa State University of Science and Technology, where he met his wife, Cheryl Olmstead. The couple married in 1973 and had a son and a daughter.
John was a licensed architect and project manager in the Des Moines area. He established Hausafus & Associates, Architects where he worked until his retirement. He was a member of American Institute of Architects, American Society for Testing and Materials, and was active at many leadership roles for Construction Specifications Institute. John often volunteered his time and skills to help others and the community.
John is survived by his wife, Cheryl; children Michael (Mackenzie) Hausafus and Tara (Erik) Hoadley; and other relatives and friends. To leave a condolence, visit www.IlesCares.com.

Wayne Eldon Nichols

Wayne Nichols, 95, died on April 25, 2022, at Pine Acres in West Des Moines. He was born in State Center. Wayne served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Iowa. Wayne married Thelma Partridge on Sept. 23, 1945, and together they raised four children. In 1974, Wayne founded Nichols Controls and Supply. He spent his career in the HVAC business.
Wayne is survived by his children, Richard (Paula) Nichols, Ronald (Bettye) Nichols, Eldon (Patty) Nichols, and Mary (Paul) Hendricksen; and numerous other relatives. Funeral services were held April 30 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens with burial at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Bradford J. Tangeman

Bradford John Tangeman, 67, of West Des Moines, died Saturday, April 23, 2022. Brad was born in St. Paul, Minnesota.
He is survived by his sons Steve, Adam (Liz), and Brady and other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church on Urbandale Avenue on Saturday, April 30. A full obituary is available online at www.ilescares.com.

Kathy Cacciatore

Kathy Cacciatore, 57, died on April 24, 2022, in West Des Moines. Kathleen Ann Peterson Cacciatore was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and was raised in West Des Moines. She graduated from Valley High School in 1982 and attended Iowa Central Community College before accepting a position as a dental assistant at Dental Associates and later with Drs. Jim Boltz and Clayton Linquist — a career that spanned more than three decades. Her favorite part of being a dental assistant was making patients feel special and comfortable and comforting those who were anxious.
On Aug. 4, 2012, she married Jim Cacciatore in Cambridge. They made their home in West Des Moines in the West Park neighborhood. She was a member of Windsor Heights Lutheran Church.
Kathy is survived by her husband, Jim; her parents, Rae Ann and Dave Claussen, and father, Larry Peterson; her sons, Alex and Matthew Nelson; her grandson, Cody Nelson; and numerous other relatives and friends.
A celebration of life service was held at Windsor Heights Lutheran Church on Friday, April 29. For full obituary, search online for Iles Funeral Home - Westover Chapel.

Owen Lynn Knapp

Owen Lynn Knapp, 70, of West Des Moines died Oct. 24, 2021, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. Following high school graduation in 1969, Owen graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism and Spanish in 1973. He managed a KFC restaurant for some years before flowing into a career as a DJ on southeastern Iowa radio stations. He later became a news reporter, news director and a sales representative and copy writer. He also joined TCI Cable as a CSR in Iowa City in 1985 and in Des Moines at Mediacom.
After moving to Des Moines in 1996, Owen’s skills and recognition kept him on the go. Outside of work, he served as a Right to Read volunteer. He helped adults in multiple subjects and also for graduation preparation examinations. When he was living in Iowa City in the past, he was a regular blood donor.
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Cheri Knapp, various cousins, and friends and co-workers. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Lorin. A visitation/luncheon will be held May 28 at Windsor Presbyterian Church, 6301 University Ave., Windsor Heights, at 11:30 a.m., so come share your memories.

Robert stander west des moines ia obituary

Robert Oren Stander

Robert Oren Stander, 94, died on Sunday, April 24, 2022, at home. Mass of Christian Burial was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in West Des Moines. Burial followed at Resthaven Cemetery. Bob was born in Chapman, Nebraska. He graduated from Northeast Wesleyan and the University of Nebraska. On April 19, 1949, he married Marcella G. Delaere. Bob was a teacher, volleyball coach, principal and superintendent. He made a career change to the insurance industry and retired as a district manager for Travelers Insurance. Bob was a member of Sacred Heart Church, the Traditional Choir, SH Guys Luncheon, St. Vincent De Paul Society, Theta Chi Fraternity, and the St. Serra Club of Des Moines. Bob was a Founding Grand Knight of Sacred Heart and was a Fourth-Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
He is survived by his two daughters, Suzanne (Steve) Peglow and Sheila Stander, and siblings Sara (Gareld) Wulf, Carol (Ed) Franco, and Charles Stander. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marcella, and sons Robert Jr. and Stephen.

Bonnie Jean Christensen

Bonnie Jean Christensen, 87, died April 28, 2022, in West Des Moines. She was born on June 26, 1934, in Atlantic. Memorial services were held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, on Wednesday, May 4 at 6 p.m. with visitation prior from 4-6 p.m. Burial and graveside service will be in Atlantic at a later date.
Bonnie graduated from Massena High School in 1952 and was employed at several businesses in Atlantic before moving to Des Moines in 1959. She worked for National Travelers Life Insurance Company in Des Moines until she retired in 1996.
Bonnie was a charter member of the Greater Des Moines Volkssport Association. She and her friend, Ardith, completed sanctioned Volkssport walks in 32 different countries. Bonnie was a longtime member of Adair United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir. She also attended Grace United Methodist Church in Des Moines. She was a member of the Scandinavian Club and the North of Grand Neighborhood Association. She was a loyal and committed volunteer for the BloodCenter of Central Iowa and the Salisbury House.
Bonnie attended the annual hot air balloon events in Indianola for many years. She and Ardith befriended a hot air balloon pilot and his wife and joined their “chase crew.” She had a huge collection of hot air balloon memorabilia.
Bonnie is survived by her sister, Joyce Nalevanko; sister-in-law, Sharon Christensen; brother-in-law, Dick Hudson; friend, Ardith Ortgies of Des Moines; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Della Hudson, and brother, Lynn Christensen. Condolences may be expressed at HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Carolyn Mae Hyslope

Carolyn Hyslope, 80, died Monday, April 25, 2022, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. She was born in Winterset and attended Notre Dame Catholic High School for Girls in Omaha, Nebraska. She is survived by her daughters Cindy Hyslope and Sandy (John) Swanson and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Hyslope.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday, May 3 at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Norwalk, followed by burial at St. John’s Cemetery in Cumming. Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Roger Frederick Miller

Roger Frederick Miller, 71, died April 18, 2022. He was born in Galesburg, Illinois. He attended Drake University and majored in religion. He attended Lexington Theological Seminary in Kentucky, graduating with a master of divinity degree. The subject of his thesis was humor in the church.
Roger is survived by his wife, Evie (Caskey); daughter Sarah (Miller) Schuller (Jeremy); son, Seth R. Miller; and other relatives.
According to his wishes, Roger was cremated. A celebration of life was held April 29 at Norwalk Christian Church.

Nancy C. Laughlin

Nancy C. Laughlin 77, died Friday, April 22, 2022, at her home in Norwalk following a lengthy illness. Memorial services were April 26 at St. Paul’s Lutheran & Presbyterian Church, Rockwell City. Burial was at Rosehill Cemetery, Rockwell City.
Nancy is survived by her daughters, Dynette (Shel) Jones, Dawn (Rodney Lehman) Sherman and Deanna (Trevor) Gingrich, and other relatives.

Kelly Sue Payne

Kelly Sue Payne, 62, of Winterset died at the Kavanagh House in Des Moines. She was born in Winterset and graduated from Winterset High School. She attended Simpson College and Mercy College of Health Sciences.
She married Larry Johnston in 1976, and they had three sons: Klint (Shauna) Johnston, Nicholas (Cheyenne) Johnston, and Ahren Joseph “Joey” Johnston; and daughter, Lucy Jo. She later married Jeff Towle, who proceeded her in death.
She enjoyed working for 25 years in the dental field. She later returned to college to obtain a certificate as a RPSGT (Registered Polysomnographic Technologist in sleep medicine). She enjoyed mentoring elementary-age children, teaching Sunday school and working with toddlers at the Jerimiah Program in Minneapolis.
Kelly is survived by, in addition to her sons, first husband, Larry, and her mother, Enolia Payne-Buck; among other relatives. Besides her husband, Jeffrey Towle, she was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth O. Payne. A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Ernest William Brandt

Ernest “Ernie” William Brandt, 92, of Ankeny and formerly of Waverly, died Monday, April 25, 2022. A funeral service was held Monday, May 2 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Ankeny. A graveside service was held May 3 at Harlington Cemetery in Waverly.
Ernest was born in Bremer County. He married Verna Blockhus on Aug. 27, 1950.
Ernest attended Jefferson Township No. 2 School through eighth grade and graduated from Waverly High School in 1947. He then attended the Radio and Television Institute in Omaha and received his First Class Federal Communications Commission license. He used his degree from 1948-1950 at Radio Station KDEC and KWDC in Decorah. From 1950-1960 he farmed by Bremer, and, from 1960-1966, he was a member of the Waverly Police Department. He later worked at Lutheran Mutual Life Insurance Company, receiving the FLM designation in 1977. He retired on Jan. 1, 1992. His public service continued when he served as commander of the Waverly Police Reserves and the Civil Service Commission from 1982-2017.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Verna; two daughters, Roxanne (Marty) Rathje and Susan (Jim) Twedt; and other relatives.

Kay E. (DuCharme) Mueller

Kay E. (DuCharme) Mueller, 81, of Ankeny, died Monday, April 25, 2022, at Sunny View Care Center. She was born in Saginaw, Michigan.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 6 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 S.E. Sharon Drive, in Ankeny. Visitation will be from 9-10:30 a.m., prior to the service.
She is survived by her beloved husband of almost 60 years, Mark Mueller; her four children, Lauri (Jeff) Wagaman, Kristi (Bill) Bennett, Cathy (Paul) Boenitz and Dave Mueller; and many other friends and family.

David M. Stout

David Miles Stout, 71, of Ankeny died Jan. 21, 2021, at home after a brief but fierce battle with metastatic melanoma. A celebration of life will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 2 at Memorial Services of Iowa, 4208 N. Ankeny Blvd., with a time of sharing at 5:15 p.m.
David is survived by his wife, Lynhon Stout; daughter, Jennifer (Roni) Stout; grandchildren, Jack and Olivia Kagan; brother, Harry (Mern) Stout; nieces, nephews and loving friends. A full obituary is online at www.AnkenyMemorial.com.

John Harold Christl

John Harold Christl, 82, died Saturday, April 9, 2022, in Des Moines. John was born in Glendale, California. In 1942, the family moved to Porterville, California, where he graduated from Porterville High School in 1957.
He served in the U.S. Navy. While home on leave, he met Joanie and they married in 1962. John worked for Raytheon in Southern California and then at Pt. Mugu Pacific Missile Range. He later worked in the mobile home industry, which took the family from Texas to Idaho and Kansas. He later started his own business, All-American Tire & Auto Repair, which he owned and operated for 43 years in Gardnerville, Nevada. He owned his own Cessna 210 and fulfilled a lifelong dream of being a private pilot.
John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joanie; daughter Jori Halbirt (Mike); sons, John Christl (Robyn), Steve Christl (Colleen), and Michael Christl; and other relatives.
A viewing was held at Myers Funeral Service in Porterville, California, on May 3. Funeral services followed at St. Anne’s Catholic Church there with graveside service at Vandalia Cemetery.

Mildred Gardner

Mildred Gardner, 92, died April 27, 2022. She was born in Marshalltown where she graduated high school in 1947. Forsaking a scholarship to Iowa State University, she married Leon L. Gardner after graduation. In 1960, the family moved to Des Moines. After being a “stay at home mom” for some years, she worked for Look Magazine and later for Deluxe Check Printers where she stayed for 24 years before retiring in 1992.
Mildred joined Beta Sigma Phi Sorority in 1958 in Marshalltown and served in many capacities. After moving to Des Moines, she joined a newcomers bridge club which stayed together until they couldn’t get a fourth. A life-long Lutheran, she and Leon were most recently members of Hope Lutheran Church in Johnston.
Her husband, Leon, preceded her in death. She is survived by sons Michael (LaNell), Stephen and Mark (JoNell); and many other relatives.