Molly K. Sanders, 43, of Gowrie, died May 27, 2023, at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home in Fort Dodge. Services will be held Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Mission Community Church in Harcourt. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m., service at 11 a.m., with burial in Gowrie Township Cemetery after the service. Arrangements are being handled by Palmer Funeral Services in Gowrie. Molly was born in Mount Pleasant to William and Caralee Jefferson McGinnis on Aug. 28, 1979. She grew up in Danville and attended Danville Schools. She attended Iowa Wesleyan University in Mount Pleasant. Molly was a classically trained pianist. Most of her adult life was devoted to being a full-time mother to her children. Survivors include Molly’s children, Logan, Liberty, Miles and McKenna; her parents, Bill and Caralee McGinnis, brother Dan (Mary) McGinnis, and former husbands Mark Prehm and Lenny Sanders. Memorials may be left at the discretion of the family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685571683075.jpeg" alt="Molly K. Sanders" />
 <figcaption>Molly K. Sanders</figcaption>
 </figure>Molly K. Sanders, 43, of Gowrie, died May 27, 2023, at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home in Fort Dodge. Services will be held Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Mission Community Church in Harcourt. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m., service at 11 a.m., with burial in Gowrie Township Cemetery after the service. Arrangements are being handled by Palmer Funeral Services in Gowrie. Molly was born in Mount Pleasant to William and Caralee Jefferson McGinnis on Aug. 28, 1979. She grew up in Danville and attended Danville Schools. She attended Iowa Wesleyan University in Mount Pleasant. Molly was a classically trained pianist. Most of her adult life was devoted to being a full-time mother to her children. Survivors include Molly’s children, Logan, Liberty, Miles and McKenna; her parents, Bill and Caralee McGinnis, brother Dan (Mary) McGinnis, and former husbands Mark Prehm and Lenny Sanders. Memorials may be left at the discretion of the family.

Molly K. Sanders

Kerman L. Copeland, 78, Burlington, died May 27, 2023. &nbsp; Kerman was born Sept. 11, 1944, to Kenneth L. and Edith M. Anderson Copeland.&nbsp; Kerman graduated from Mediapolis Community School in 1962. He served in the Air Force from 1962 to 1966. While he was stationed at Lincoln Air Force Base, he met and married his wife.&nbsp; After his discharge, they moved back to Mediapolis. Kerm (Red) worked at the IAAP as a plumber/pipefitter for eight years, and then went into construction as a 50 year member of Local 212; now Local 125. Kerm served as Yellow Spring Township Trustee from 1990 until 2008 when he and Carol moved to Burlington. He was chairman of the local Democrat party for several years and was honored with the Hall of Fame Award in 2015. Kerman was a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited. He was a Life Member of the American Legion and the NRA. He spent over 52 years working fundraisers for Ducks Unlimited and he and his family enjoyed many trips to their national conventions. Kerman received the Jay Neubauer Award in 2016. &nbsp;He was known as “The Photographer” for DU and Democrat events and was named Grumpy Goldeneye #1. &nbsp;He loved his family and especially doted on his granddaughters. He appreciated all the friends who called and sent cards while he was struggling with his disease. &nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Carol (Cullen); three sons; Ross (Melissa) of Mediapolis, Kevin (Tabitha) of Burlington, and James of Cedar Rapids. He also is survived by granddaughters, Grace and Courtney of Burlington; two sisters; Katherine Crow of Mediapolis, and Karen Gittings of Wapello; one brother, Keith (Connie) Copeland of Wellman; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean Crow and Bernard (Buck) Gittings, nephews, Brent Crow, Joshua Avery and Christopher Copeland. His body has been entrusted to Prugh Funeral Home and will be cremated per his request. Visitation will be June 2, 2023 from noon until 5 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Prugh Funeral Home at 10 a.m.on Saturday, June 3, 2023. Pastor Dean Graber will conduct the service, with full Military Honors rendered by the Burlington Area Honor Guard. A private inurnment will be held at a later date. &nbsp; In lieu of flowers, Kerman would appreciate donations to the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House or the Southeast Iowa Chapter of Ducks Unlimited.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685483328769.jpeg" alt="Kerman L. Copeland" />
 <figcaption>Kerman L. Copeland</figcaption>
 </figure>Kerman L. Copeland, 78, Burlington, died May 27, 2023. &nbsp; Kerman was born Sept. 11, 1944, to Kenneth L. and Edith M. Anderson Copeland.&nbsp; Kerman graduated from Mediapolis Community School in 1962. He served in the Air Force from 1962 to 1966. While he was stationed at Lincoln Air Force Base, he met and married his wife.&nbsp; After his discharge, they moved back to Mediapolis. Kerm (Red) worked at the IAAP as a plumber/pipefitter for eight years, and then went into construction as a 50 year member of Local 212; now Local 125. Kerm served as Yellow Spring Township Trustee from 1990 until 2008 when he and Carol moved to Burlington. He was chairman of the local Democrat party for several years and was honored with the Hall of Fame Award in 2015. Kerman was a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited. He was a Life Member of the American Legion and the NRA. He spent over 52 years working fundraisers for Ducks Unlimited and he and his family enjoyed many trips to their national conventions. Kerman received the Jay Neubauer Award in 2016. &nbsp;He was known as “The Photographer” for DU and Democrat events and was named Grumpy Goldeneye #1. &nbsp;He loved his family and especially doted on his granddaughters. He appreciated all the friends who called and sent cards while he was struggling with his disease. &nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Carol (Cullen); three sons; Ross (Melissa) of Mediapolis, Kevin (Tabitha) of Burlington, and James of Cedar Rapids. He also is survived by granddaughters, Grace and Courtney of Burlington; two sisters; Katherine Crow of Mediapolis, and Karen Gittings of Wapello; one brother, Keith (Connie) Copeland of Wellman; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean Crow and Bernard (Buck) Gittings, nephews, Brent Crow, Joshua Avery and Christopher Copeland. His body has been entrusted to Prugh Funeral Home and will be cremated per his request. Visitation will be June 2, 2023 from noon until 5 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Prugh Funeral Home at 10 a.m.on Saturday, June 3, 2023. Pastor Dean Graber will conduct the service, with full Military Honors rendered by the Burlington Area Honor Guard. A private inurnment will be held at a later date. &nbsp; In lieu of flowers, Kerman would appreciate donations to the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House or the Southeast Iowa Chapter of Ducks Unlimited.

Kerman L. Copeland

Cheryl Ann “Sherry” Sharp, 68, of Burlington, died Monday, May 29, 2023 at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born December 16, 1954, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Frank and Helen Geiger Suchy. She graduated in 1973 from Burlington High School.

Sherry married Danny Dickens. They later divorced. She then married Jim Geren. They later divorced. On March 2, 2001, she married Jon Sharp in Burlington.

Sherry was a self-employed seamstress. She was well known for her work, especially draperies.

Sherry was named women’s Bowler of the Year many times, and was inducted to the Bowling Hall of Fame. She was a member of the Moose Lodge #579. Sherry enjoyed going to the Senior Center. Sherry enjoyed spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren and her cats, dancing, bowling, sewing and playing bingo. She made many of her children’s and grandchildren’s Halloween costumes.

Survivors include her husband Jon of Burlington; two sons Bill (Rachel) Dickens of West Burlington and Ben (Doris) Geren of Marion; one daughter Andie (Bob) Gerst of Mediapolis; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and one step-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister Judy Haag.

The funeral service for Sherry will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 2 at Lunning Chapel with Mr. Lee Sharp officiating. Interment will be in Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 1 at Lunning Chapel.

Memorials have been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society and the Alzheimer’s Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685479928584.jpeg" alt="Cheryl Sharp" />
 <figcaption>Cheryl Sharp</figcaption>
 </figure>Cheryl Ann “Sherry” Sharp, 68, of Burlington, died Monday, May 29, 2023 at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s.Born December 16, 1954, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Frank and Helen Geiger Suchy. She graduated in 1973 from Burlington High School.Sherry married Danny Dickens. They later divorced. She then married Jim Geren. They later divorced. On March 2, 2001, she married Jon Sharp in Burlington.Sherry was a self-employed seamstress. She was well known for her work, especially draperies.Sherry was named women’s Bowler of the Year many times, and was inducted to the Bowling Hall of Fame. She was a member of the Moose Lodge #579. Sherry enjoyed going to the Senior Center. Sherry enjoyed spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren and her cats, dancing, bowling, sewing and playing bingo. She made many of her children’s and grandchildren’s Halloween costumes.Survivors include her husband Jon of Burlington; two sons Bill (Rachel) Dickens of West Burlington and Ben (Doris) Geren of Marion; one daughter Andie (Bob) Gerst of Mediapolis; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and one step-great grandchild.She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister Judy Haag.The funeral service for Sherry will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 2 at Lunning Chapel with Mr. Lee Sharp officiating. Interment will be in Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 1 at Lunning Chapel.Memorials have been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Cheryl Ann “Sherry” Sharp

Wayne E. Yetter, 92, of LaHarpe, Ill., died Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at the Macomb Post Acute Care Center in Macomb, Ill. Wayne was born Dec. 6, 1930, in Carthage, Ill., the son of Morris Ross and Cleta Pauline Loop Letter. On Oct. 10, 1959, he married Patricia Louise Henry&nbsp; at the Blandinsville United Methodist Church, Blandinsville, Ill. She preceded him in death on Sept. 10, 2021. Mr. Yetter was a 1944 graduate of Carthage High School. Following high school he served in the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, he owned a service station in Carthage. He moved to LaHarpe in 1957, where he and Bill Hasten became the co-owners of LaHarpe Motor Sales, a Ford Franchise. He enjoyed his job and remained active selling cars after his retirement in 2003. He was a member of the LaHarpe American Legion, LaHarpe Christian Church and the LaHarpe Golden Rule Club.&nbsp; Survivors include one daughter: Candy (Bobby) Lee of rural LaHarpe; one granddaughter: Rossi (Blake Moore) Lee and one great-grandson: Stetson Wayne Moore. Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home. Friends may callafter 2 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2023 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home where the family will receive friendsfrom 5 to 7 p.m. A graveside service will be heldat 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023at the LaHarpe Cemetery with Rev. Rick Goettsche officiating.&nbsp; A memorial fund has been established for the LaHarpe American Legion or his grandson, Stetson Wayne’s education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685474823947.jpeg" alt="Wayne Yetter" />
 <figcaption>Wayne Yetter</figcaption>
 </figure>Wayne E. Yetter, 92, of LaHarpe, Ill., died Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at the Macomb Post Acute Care Center in Macomb, Ill. Wayne was born Dec. 6, 1930, in Carthage, Ill., the son of Morris Ross and Cleta Pauline Loop Letter. On Oct. 10, 1959, he married Patricia Louise Henry&nbsp; at the Blandinsville United Methodist Church, Blandinsville, Ill. She preceded him in death on Sept. 10, 2021. Mr. Yetter was a 1944 graduate of Carthage High School. Following high school he served in the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, he owned a service station in Carthage. He moved to LaHarpe in 1957, where he and Bill Hasten became the co-owners of LaHarpe Motor Sales, a Ford Franchise. He enjoyed his job and remained active selling cars after his retirement in 2003. He was a member of the LaHarpe American Legion, LaHarpe Christian Church and the LaHarpe Golden Rule Club.&nbsp; Survivors include one daughter: Candy (Bobby) Lee of rural LaHarpe; one granddaughter: Rossi (Blake Moore) Lee and one great-grandson: Stetson Wayne Moore. Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home. Friends may callafter 2 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2023 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home where the family will receive friendsfrom 5 to 7 p.m. A graveside service will be heldat 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023at the LaHarpe Cemetery with Rev. Rick Goettsche officiating.&nbsp; A memorial fund has been established for the LaHarpe American Legion or his grandson, Stetson Wayne’s education.

Wayne Yetter

Robert James&nbsp;Steingreaber, Sr.,&nbsp;72,&nbsp;of Keosauqua, died Saturday May 27,&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;having been&nbsp;brought&nbsp;back&nbsp;home to Van Buren County by his family.&nbsp;

Bob was born May 29,&nbsp;1950,&nbsp;to Darlene and Robert W.&nbsp;Steingreaber, Jr.&nbsp;in Burlington.&nbsp;&nbsp;He graduated from Burlington High School in 1968 and received his bachelor’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from ISU in 1972.

He taught H.S. science at Breckenridge, Mo. from 1972-75 and&nbsp;H.S.&nbsp;physiology,&nbsp;chemistry,&nbsp;and&nbsp;math, and was tech coordinator at Van Buren Schools, Keosauqua, from 1975-1997.

He coached both five-player and six-player Iowa Girls&nbsp;basketball. &nbsp;There were good teams and an overall record of&nbsp;259-168 during his 21 years of coaching at VB. &nbsp;The 1980 team finished with an 18-3 record while 85 team was 20-2. &nbsp;1980, 85 and 92&nbsp;teams&nbsp;went to regionals, each time&nbsp;finishing&nbsp;just one game&nbsp;from&nbsp;qualifying for the state tournament, according to the Hawkeye.&nbsp;In 1986, he was the girls Coach of the Year.

As a leader, he served both as the Van Buren Teachers Union President and in later years, as the Van Buren School Board President. &nbsp;

He received his&nbsp;master’s in educational administration&nbsp;from Drake University in 1997 and took a position as coordinator, technology services at Southern Prairie AEA from 1997 – 2001 and as Coordinator, Instructional Services: Resources&nbsp;at Great Prairie AEA&nbsp;from 2001 until he retired in&nbsp;2010. &nbsp;He was Chair of the&nbsp;Iowa&nbsp;State Media Directors and served as president of NAMTC&nbsp;– National Association of Media and Technology Centers.

He was on several boards&nbsp;including the&nbsp;Van Buren Conservation Board. &nbsp;This year marked 30 years of service on this&nbsp;board,&nbsp;and&nbsp;he has been chairman since 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;He loved the&nbsp;work and working with members of the community to highlight the parks and opportunities nature provides.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob was an avid outdoorsman.

Bob is survived by his wife, Kristin. &nbsp;They&nbsp;were a team in education and raising their family&nbsp;together. &nbsp;He was a very proud dad to three children: Robert James “Jim”, Jr. (Tori); Will (Lauren) and Anne (Landon)&nbsp;Plagge. &nbsp;He spent a lot of time following the interests of his kids&nbsp;and loved every minute of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Three grandchildren: Jimmy (Liz); Kylie (Joel)&nbsp;Hugo&nbsp;and Cassidy.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was looking forward to being a&nbsp;great grandpa.

His siblings:&nbsp;Elaine (Tom) Shipley; David (Jean) and Mary&nbsp;(Jim) Olson and their families; many&nbsp;Thronson&nbsp;in-laws&nbsp;and families.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 3 at the Congregational Church in Keosauqua. &nbsp;There will be areception and gathering at the Beach House Lodge at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park&nbsp;starting at 5 p.m.

Online condolences can be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com/">www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com</a>&nbsp;Donations can be directed to Van Buren Co Conservation&nbsp;and mailed to the Cranston&nbsp;Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556

He was a good man and enjoyed his life to the fullest. &nbsp;He gave to his family and&nbsp;community,&nbsp;and we are missing him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685467909406.jpeg" alt="Robert Steingreaber" />
 <figcaption>Robert Steingreaber</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert James&nbsp;Steingreaber, Sr.,&nbsp;72,&nbsp;of Keosauqua, died Saturday May 27,&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;having been&nbsp;brought&nbsp;back&nbsp;home to Van Buren County by his family.&nbsp;Bob was born May 29,&nbsp;1950,&nbsp;to Darlene and Robert W.&nbsp;Steingreaber, Jr.&nbsp;in Burlington.&nbsp;&nbsp;He graduated from Burlington High School in 1968 and received his bachelor’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from ISU in 1972.He taught H.S. science at Breckenridge, Mo. from 1972-75 and&nbsp;H.S.&nbsp;physiology,&nbsp;chemistry,&nbsp;and&nbsp;math, and was tech coordinator at Van Buren Schools, Keosauqua, from 1975-1997.He coached both five-player and six-player Iowa Girls&nbsp;basketball. &nbsp;There were good teams and an overall record of&nbsp;259-168 during his 21 years of coaching at VB. &nbsp;The 1980 team finished with an 18-3 record while 85 team was 20-2. &nbsp;1980, 85 and 92&nbsp;teams&nbsp;went to regionals, each time&nbsp;finishing&nbsp;just one game&nbsp;from&nbsp;qualifying for the state tournament, according to the Hawkeye.&nbsp;In 1986, he was the girls Coach of the Year.As a leader, he served both as the Van Buren Teachers Union President and in later years, as the Van Buren School Board President. &nbsp;He received his&nbsp;master’s in educational administration&nbsp;from Drake University in 1997 and took a position as coordinator, technology services at Southern Prairie AEA from 1997 – 2001 and as Coordinator, Instructional Services: Resources&nbsp;at Great Prairie AEA&nbsp;from 2001 until he retired in&nbsp;2010. &nbsp;He was Chair of the&nbsp;Iowa&nbsp;State Media Directors and served as president of NAMTC&nbsp;– National Association of Media and Technology Centers.He was on several boards&nbsp;including the&nbsp;Van Buren Conservation Board. &nbsp;This year marked 30 years of service on this&nbsp;board,&nbsp;and&nbsp;he has been chairman since 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;He loved the&nbsp;work and working with members of the community to highlight the parks and opportunities nature provides.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob was an avid outdoorsman.Bob is survived by his wife, Kristin. &nbsp;They&nbsp;were a team in education and raising their family&nbsp;together. &nbsp;He was a very proud dad to three children: Robert James “Jim”, Jr. (Tori); Will (Lauren) and Anne (Landon)&nbsp;Plagge. &nbsp;He spent a lot of time following the interests of his kids&nbsp;and loved every minute of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Three grandchildren: Jimmy (Liz); Kylie (Joel)&nbsp;Hugo&nbsp;and Cassidy.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was looking forward to being a&nbsp;great grandpa.His siblings:&nbsp;Elaine (Tom) Shipley; David (Jean) and Mary&nbsp;(Jim) Olson and their families; many&nbsp;Thronson&nbsp;in-laws&nbsp;and families.A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 3 at the Congregational Church in Keosauqua. &nbsp;There will be areception and gathering at the Beach House Lodge at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park&nbsp;starting at 5 p.m.Online condolences can be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com/">www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com</a>&nbsp;Donations can be directed to Van Buren Co Conservation&nbsp;and mailed to the Cranston&nbsp;Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556He was a good man and enjoyed his life to the fullest. &nbsp;He gave to his family and&nbsp;community,&nbsp;and we are missing him.

Robert James Steingreaber

&nbsp;James&nbsp;Lee&nbsp;Graham, 91, of Ames, died May 21, 2023 at Northridge Village.

He was born April 15, 1932 to Esther and James from Dexter.

He&nbsp;was born April 15, 1932 to Esther and James from Dexter, Iowa. James was proud of the fact that he attended Penn #3, a country school. He often joked about running a six- mile trapline before school where he trapped racoons, skunks.&nbsp;“Sometimes I didn’t smell so good as I carried my gun into the school house”.&nbsp;

He graduated from&nbsp;Dexfield&nbsp;High&nbsp;in 1950.&nbsp;&nbsp;After graduation, he entered the Navy specializing inintercepting&nbsp;Morse code messages.&nbsp;He worked for the telephone company in Ames for over&nbsp;35&nbsp;years.

James would tell his children how he was given fifty cents on the weekend. “I could buy a haircut, a sandwich and have change leftover for a movie.”&nbsp;

James was a learned man. He taught himself about Morse code, becoming a certified ham radio operator at 16, one of the youngest in the state of Iowa. He carried this skill into the Navy, where he served overseas during post WWII era.&nbsp;

“I learned how to shoot and throw a knife from someone involved in the shootout of Bonnie and Clyde,” James would start a conversation. He loved re-telling stories about his&nbsp;childhood. Bonnie and Clyde – The Iowa Connection was published when James was 90 years old.&nbsp;

James agreed to a blind date where a&nbsp;spunky gal named Hazel Welder captured his&nbsp;attention.&nbsp;“Boy!&nbsp;She could really cook!” Dad would begin, spinning into another story about his beloved. They were&nbsp;married June 11, 1960 in Perry. On their honeymoon&nbsp;trip to Yellowstone,&nbsp;Hazel tossed an entire package of Fig Newton cookies at a bear hovering over the top of their red thunderbird.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;newlyweds&nbsp;made Ames their home, residing on the banks of&nbsp;Squaw (Ioway)&nbsp;creek.&nbsp;Here&nbsp;they enjoyed&nbsp;dining&nbsp;al fresco&nbsp;on the&nbsp;deck James built overlooking the bubbling water.&nbsp;

As an only child,&nbsp;James said,&nbsp;“I felt lonely growing up on a farm with only a dog for a companion.”&nbsp;He was blessed with three children- Lynda Lee, Suzanne Lynne and Michael James.&nbsp;

James had a brain which thrived on knowledge. He was always reading, watching history channels,&nbsp;observing wildlife,&nbsp;weather,&nbsp;UFOs, and ancient civilizations.&nbsp;He loved taking Senior College classes&nbsp;at Iowa State&nbsp;and sharing his new-found knowledge on world religions and astronomy.&nbsp;

He enjoyed telling his nurses that he was 5 foot 14 inchestall&nbsp;so that they had to do math. His gangly&nbsp;build responded well to athletic training. The family bought him a bike&nbsp;for his fortieth birthday. He became a bicycle racer, racing for Michael’s Cyclery.&nbsp;

After experiencing the thrill of athletic competition, James had the fever. He went from racing bicycles to running,&nbsp;biathalons, and&nbsp;cross-country&nbsp;skiing.&nbsp;

An avid fisherman, James could often be found with his family vacationing at Hanging Kettle Lake in Minnesota. James took his family&nbsp;on memorable vacations to Disney, Civil war battlefields, museums, Pioneer village and especially RAGBRAI.&nbsp;

James loved riding his&nbsp;Specialized&nbsp;bicycle. He was proud of the fact that he&nbsp;completed&nbsp;33 full RAGBRAIs, even riding with&nbsp;his grandchildren, Katy, Harrison and Trenton.

James biked the Rocky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nebraska (BRAN ride) and Wisconsin. “One of the highlights of my life was riding up Monarch pass with RAM rider,&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Bob Breedlove.”

James&nbsp;was&nbsp;curious and&nbsp;inquisitive&nbsp;with a&nbsp;keen intellect&nbsp;that&nbsp;drove all his pursuits. His passion was&nbsp;ham radio. He entered many&nbsp;radio&nbsp;competitions. He was proud of having contacted&nbsp;over 300 countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His&nbsp;children always knew when&nbsp;James&nbsp;was gearing up for another&nbsp;competition as&nbsp;Mom would stock up on Fig&nbsp;Newtons, his&nbsp;favorite cookie.&nbsp;

Feline&nbsp;companions were dear to him.&nbsp;His beloved cat, Tiger is being cared for by grandson, Harrison.&nbsp;

James enjoyed going out to eat at Perkins, Dutch Bakery, and Village Inn. He generally tipped the waitstaff in $2 bills. Think of James the next time you see a $2 bill.&nbsp;

James&nbsp;was pre-deceased&nbsp;by his parents&nbsp;and his wife, Hazel. survivors include his children,&nbsp;Lynda Graham -Murray (Matthew), Suzi&nbsp;Rickels&nbsp;and&nbsp;(Michael) Michael (Heather);Grandchildren, Katy&nbsp;Vakranoff&nbsp;(Tim), Harrison Murray,&nbsp;Trenton Murray, Bobby Chase,&nbsp;Khole Graham, Dexter Graham ; and great-grandchildren: Millie&nbsp;Vakranoff.&nbsp; Services for James will be Friday, June 2 at the Northminister Presbyterian Church in Ames. Visitation is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:30 a.m. A light lunch follows. Burial with military honors in the Dexter cemetery at 2 p.m.

Memorials have been established for the Dexter Historical Society, Iowa Public Television and&nbsp;Northminister Presbyterian Church.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685466539643.jpeg" alt="James Graham" />
 <figcaption>James Graham</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;James&nbsp;Lee&nbsp;Graham, 91, of Ames, died May 21, 2023 at Northridge Village.He was born April 15, 1932 to Esther and James from Dexter.He&nbsp;was born April 15, 1932 to Esther and James from Dexter, Iowa. James was proud of the fact that he attended Penn #3, a country school. He often joked about running a six- mile trapline before school where he trapped racoons, skunks.&nbsp;“Sometimes I didn’t smell so good as I carried my gun into the school house”.&nbsp;He graduated from&nbsp;Dexfield&nbsp;High&nbsp;in 1950.&nbsp;&nbsp;After graduation, he entered the Navy specializing inintercepting&nbsp;Morse code messages.&nbsp;He worked for the telephone company in Ames for over&nbsp;35&nbsp;years.James would tell his children how he was given fifty cents on the weekend. “I could buy a haircut, a sandwich and have change leftover for a movie.”&nbsp;James was a learned man. He taught himself about Morse code, becoming a certified ham radio operator at 16, one of the youngest in the state of Iowa. He carried this skill into the Navy, where he served overseas during post WWII era.&nbsp;“I learned how to shoot and throw a knife from someone involved in the shootout of Bonnie and Clyde,” James would start a conversation. He loved re-telling stories about his&nbsp;childhood. Bonnie and Clyde – The Iowa Connection was published when James was 90 years old.&nbsp;James agreed to a blind date where a&nbsp;spunky gal named Hazel Welder captured his&nbsp;attention.&nbsp;“Boy!&nbsp;She could really cook!” Dad would begin, spinning into another story about his beloved. They were&nbsp;married June 11, 1960 in Perry. On their honeymoon&nbsp;trip to Yellowstone,&nbsp;Hazel tossed an entire package of Fig Newton cookies at a bear hovering over the top of their red thunderbird.&nbsp;The&nbsp;newlyweds&nbsp;made Ames their home, residing on the banks of&nbsp;Squaw (Ioway)&nbsp;creek.&nbsp;Here&nbsp;they enjoyed&nbsp;dining&nbsp;al fresco&nbsp;on the&nbsp;deck James built overlooking the bubbling water.&nbsp;As an only child,&nbsp;James said,&nbsp;“I felt lonely growing up on a farm with only a dog for a companion.”&nbsp;He was blessed with three children- Lynda Lee, Suzanne Lynne and Michael James.&nbsp;James had a brain which thrived on knowledge. He was always reading, watching history channels,&nbsp;observing wildlife,&nbsp;weather,&nbsp;UFOs, and ancient civilizations.&nbsp;He loved taking Senior College classes&nbsp;at Iowa State&nbsp;and sharing his new-found knowledge on world religions and astronomy.&nbsp;He enjoyed telling his nurses that he was 5 foot 14 inchestall&nbsp;so that they had to do math. His gangly&nbsp;build responded well to athletic training. The family bought him a bike&nbsp;for his fortieth birthday. He became a bicycle racer, racing for Michael’s Cyclery.&nbsp;After experiencing the thrill of athletic competition, James had the fever. He went from racing bicycles to running,&nbsp;biathalons, and&nbsp;cross-country&nbsp;skiing.&nbsp;An avid fisherman, James could often be found with his family vacationing at Hanging Kettle Lake in Minnesota. James took his family&nbsp;on memorable vacations to Disney, Civil war battlefields, museums, Pioneer village and especially RAGBRAI.&nbsp;James loved riding his&nbsp;Specialized&nbsp;bicycle. He was proud of the fact that he&nbsp;completed&nbsp;33 full RAGBRAIs, even riding with&nbsp;his grandchildren, Katy, Harrison and Trenton.James biked the Rocky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nebraska (BRAN ride) and Wisconsin. “One of the highlights of my life was riding up Monarch pass with RAM rider,&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Bob Breedlove.”James&nbsp;was&nbsp;curious and&nbsp;inquisitive&nbsp;with a&nbsp;keen intellect&nbsp;that&nbsp;drove all his pursuits. His passion was&nbsp;ham radio. He entered many&nbsp;radio&nbsp;competitions. He was proud of having contacted&nbsp;over 300 countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His&nbsp;children always knew when&nbsp;James&nbsp;was gearing up for another&nbsp;competition as&nbsp;Mom would stock up on Fig&nbsp;Newtons, his&nbsp;favorite cookie.&nbsp;Feline&nbsp;companions were dear to him.&nbsp;His beloved cat, Tiger is being cared for by grandson, Harrison.&nbsp;James enjoyed going out to eat at Perkins, Dutch Bakery, and Village Inn. He generally tipped the waitstaff in $2 bills. Think of James the next time you see a $2 bill.&nbsp;James&nbsp;was pre-deceased&nbsp;by his parents&nbsp;and his wife, Hazel. survivors include his children,&nbsp;Lynda Graham -Murray (Matthew), Suzi&nbsp;Rickels&nbsp;and&nbsp;(Michael) Michael (Heather);Grandchildren, Katy&nbsp;Vakranoff&nbsp;(Tim), Harrison Murray,&nbsp;Trenton Murray, Bobby Chase,&nbsp;Khole Graham, Dexter Graham ; and great-grandchildren: Millie&nbsp;Vakranoff.&nbsp; Services for James will be Friday, June 2 at the Northminister Presbyterian Church in Ames. Visitation is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:30 a.m. A light lunch follows. Burial with military honors in the Dexter cemetery at 2 p.m. Memorials have been established for the Dexter Historical Society, Iowa Public Television and&nbsp;Northminister Presbyterian Church.&nbsp;

James Graham

Dick Richards, 88, of Mount Pleasant, died Friday, May 26, 2023, at Savannah Heights.&nbsp;

Dick was born Sept. 23, 1934, in Fort Madison, the son of James and Mable Ross Richards. He attended Fort Madison High School. Dick proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. After he had concluded his service, he joined the Army Reserves. On Aug. 16, 1958, Dick was united in marriage to Cecelia Hogan at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fort Madison, to this union the couple was blessed with three children. Dick worked as a deputy sheriff for Des Moines County before becoming an electrician. Prior to retirement, Dick owned and operated Industrial Motors in Burlington. Dick was a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, New London VFW Post 7641, and the Moose Lodge. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, photography, and making jewelry.&nbsp;

Dick is survived by his wife Cecelia; daughter Barbara (Randy) Brown of Mount Union; two sons David (Cathy Sanders) Richards of Montrose, Mark Richards of Danville; eight grandchildren, Mitch (Julie) Brown, Sarah Edwards, Kevin (Kelsey) Brown, David Richards, Mary Richards, Curtis (Mary) Richards, Trent Richards, Miranda Richards; and seven, soon to be eight, great-grandchildren.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jim Teel, sister Betty McMillian, and daughter-in-law Michelle Richards.&nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial will be held&nbsp;10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Father Paul Connolly as celebrant. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Burlington, with Military Rites conducted by the Henry County Honor Guard. Visitation will be held&nbsp;9 a.m.&nbsp;until the time of service on Thursday. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and New London VFW Post 7641. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory is caring for Dick and his family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685466201899.jpeg" alt="Dick Richards" />
 <figcaption>Dick Richards</figcaption>
 </figure>Dick Richards, 88, of Mount Pleasant, died Friday, May 26, 2023, at Savannah Heights.&nbsp;Dick was born Sept. 23, 1934, in Fort Madison, the son of James and Mable Ross Richards. He attended Fort Madison High School. Dick proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. After he had concluded his service, he joined the Army Reserves. On Aug. 16, 1958, Dick was united in marriage to Cecelia Hogan at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fort Madison, to this union the couple was blessed with three children. Dick worked as a deputy sheriff for Des Moines County before becoming an electrician. Prior to retirement, Dick owned and operated Industrial Motors in Burlington. Dick was a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, New London VFW Post 7641, and the Moose Lodge. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, photography, and making jewelry.&nbsp;Dick is survived by his wife Cecelia; daughter Barbara (Randy) Brown of Mount Union; two sons David (Cathy Sanders) Richards of Montrose, Mark Richards of Danville; eight grandchildren, Mitch (Julie) Brown, Sarah Edwards, Kevin (Kelsey) Brown, David Richards, Mary Richards, Curtis (Mary) Richards, Trent Richards, Miranda Richards; and seven, soon to be eight, great-grandchildren.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jim Teel, sister Betty McMillian, and daughter-in-law Michelle Richards.&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be held&nbsp;10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Father Paul Connolly as celebrant. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Burlington, with Military Rites conducted by the Henry County Honor Guard. Visitation will be held&nbsp;9 a.m.&nbsp;until the time of service on Thursday. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and New London VFW Post 7641. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory is caring for Dick and his family.

Dick Richards

Angela A. Hotze, 96, of Burlington, died Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born July 25, 1926, in Leopold, Mo, she was the daughter of Bernard L. and Anna M. Steinerd Hotze.&nbsp;

Angela received her Masters in Education from Our Lady of Shrine in San Antonio, Texas. She taught in San Antonio, St. Louis, and Burlington Notre Dame High School. She was the librarian at the Southeastern Community College for 17 years and continued to work in their archives after her retirement.

She was a member of the American Library Association, Iowa Library Association and SCC Higher Education Association. She made some of the most beautiful paintings and loved sewing, watching the birds, gardening and being outside. She was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Angela will be remembered for her kind and gracious heart and she was always so grateful. She dearly loved spending time with her lifelong friend, Barb Fischer.

Survivors include her lifelong friend, Barb Fischer of Burlington, along with her sisters Mary Lou Olson and Ann Hatt and their families; three nieces, Kathleen (Richard) Repole of N.J., Elizabeth (Tim) Bates of Mo., Joan M. (Hank) Diester of Mo.; many great nieces and nephews; and her loving caregiver, Lucy Wyatt of Burlington.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Fr. Alfonse Hotze SVD, Fr. Leo Hotze SVD and Fr. Clement Hotze SVD, four sisters, Adele Hofstee, Clare McElroy, Sister Clarea Hotze SSND and Sister Mary Helen Hotze SSND.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church. A Rosary Service for Angela will be held at 10 a.m.&nbsp;

The Funeral Mass of the Resurrection for Ms. Hotze will be 11 a.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church.&nbsp; Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the burial.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Notre Dame High School in Burlington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685418618349.jpeg" alt="Angela A. Hotze" />
 <figcaption>Angela A. Hotze</figcaption>
 </figure>Angela A. Hotze, 96, of Burlington, died Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.Born July 25, 1926, in Leopold, Mo, she was the daughter of Bernard L. and Anna M. Steinerd Hotze.&nbsp;Angela received her Masters in Education from Our Lady of Shrine in San Antonio, Texas. She taught in San Antonio, St. Louis, and Burlington Notre Dame High School. She was the librarian at the Southeastern Community College for 17 years and continued to work in their archives after her retirement.She was a member of the American Library Association, Iowa Library Association and SCC Higher Education Association. She made some of the most beautiful paintings and loved sewing, watching the birds, gardening and being outside. She was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Angela will be remembered for her kind and gracious heart and she was always so grateful. She dearly loved spending time with her lifelong friend, Barb Fischer.Survivors include her lifelong friend, Barb Fischer of Burlington, along with her sisters Mary Lou Olson and Ann Hatt and their families; three nieces, Kathleen (Richard) Repole of N.J., Elizabeth (Tim) Bates of Mo., Joan M. (Hank) Diester of Mo.; many great nieces and nephews; and her loving caregiver, Lucy Wyatt of Burlington.She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Fr. Alfonse Hotze SVD, Fr. Leo Hotze SVD and Fr. Clement Hotze SVD, four sisters, Adele Hofstee, Clare McElroy, Sister Clarea Hotze SSND and Sister Mary Helen Hotze SSND.Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church. A Rosary Service for Angela will be held at 10 a.m.&nbsp;The Funeral Mass of the Resurrection for Ms. Hotze will be 11 a.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church.&nbsp; Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the burial.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Notre Dame High School in Burlington.

Angela A. Hotze

Michael Alan Wiley, 59, of Lomax, Ill., died Friday, May 19, 2023, at his home.

Born June 25, 1963, in Burlington, he was the son of Terry and Sharon Krogemeier Wiley. He married Stephanie Anderson. They later divorced. He then married Beth Knopp on March 25, 2017.

Mike was a Union Laborer for Local #538 for eight years, until his retirement in 2019. Prior to that he worked on the river.

He was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing and trap shooting. He was a St. Louis Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys fan and loved to watch WWE Wrestling. He was a proud “Papa” and his time with his grandkids meant everything to him and he enjoyed attending their activities.

Mike is survived by his wife Beth Wiley of Lomax; two sons, Brad (Misty McCrory) Wiley of Cedar Rapids, and Bryan (Connie) Wiley of Carman, Ill.; two step-sons, Ryan (Caroline) Jones of Danville, and Zachary Weyrick of Montrose; eight grandchildren with one on the way; his parents, Terry and Sharon Wiley of West Burlington; his three “fur babies”, Millie, Abby, and Bailey; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

The graveside funeral service and inurnment for Mr. Wiley will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 27 at Carman Cemetery, Carman, Ill. Pastor JudyAnn Morse will officiate.

According to his wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685073270179.jpeg" alt="Michael Alan Wiley" />
 <figcaption>Michael Alan Wiley</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Alan Wiley, 59, of Lomax, Ill., died Friday, May 19, 2023, at his home.Born June 25, 1963, in Burlington, he was the son of Terry and Sharon Krogemeier Wiley. He married Stephanie Anderson. They later divorced. He then married Beth Knopp on March 25, 2017.Mike was a Union Laborer for Local #538 for eight years, until his retirement in 2019. Prior to that he worked on the river.He was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing and trap shooting. He was a St. Louis Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys fan and loved to watch WWE Wrestling. He was a proud “Papa” and his time with his grandkids meant everything to him and he enjoyed attending their activities.Mike is survived by his wife Beth Wiley of Lomax; two sons, Brad (Misty McCrory) Wiley of Cedar Rapids, and Bryan (Connie) Wiley of Carman, Ill.; two step-sons, Ryan (Caroline) Jones of Danville, and Zachary Weyrick of Montrose; eight grandchildren with one on the way; his parents, Terry and Sharon Wiley of West Burlington; his three “fur babies”, Millie, Abby, and Bailey; aunts, uncles, and cousins.He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, aunts, and uncles.The graveside funeral service and inurnment for Mr. Wiley will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 27 at Carman Cemetery, Carman, Ill. Pastor JudyAnn Morse will officiate.According to his wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.

Michael Alan Wiley

Gary Lee Blott, 81, of Burlington, died at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House on May 23, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Gary was born on June 1, 1941 in Burlington. He was the son of James and Janette Danielson Blott of Burlington.

Gary graduated from Burlington High School in 1959 and started working for Murray Ironworks. He then joined the Army National Guard stationed in San Antonio, Texas, as a medic.

On Aug. 19, 1967, he married Sharon Evans of Fort Madison. They were married in Fort Madison at First Baptist Church and have been married 55 years.

In his younger years, Gary raised quail and English-Setter bird dogs, entering field trials, winning many first-place trophies. He enjoyed wood carving, cars, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and going to his grandchildren’s sporting events. He also enjoyed taking cruises and visiting National Parks with his wife and family. Yellowstone was his favorite.

He was a lifelong member of the West Burlington United Methodist Church and served on various committees.

In Sept. of 2007, Gary retired with 48 years of service as a Senior Design Coordinator with Dresser-Rand [formerly Murray Ironworks / Murray-Tuthill].

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter Shelly [Tom] Watts of Burlington; three grandchildren Alex [Courtney] Gaddis of Bethesda Maryland, Tyler [Samantha] Watts of Fort Madison, and Sami Watts of Iowa City.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

A visitation will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel with family present, Thursday, May 25, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The funeral service will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel, Friday, May 26, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Nancy Sutherland officiating. Interment services at Aspen Grove Cemetery immediately following. A time of food and fellowship will be held at West Burlington United Methodist Church after services.

A memorial has been established for West Burlington United Methodist Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685063370660.jpeg" alt="Gary Lee Blott" />
 <figcaption>Gary Lee Blott</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Lee Blott, 81, of Burlington, died at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House on May 23, 2023, surrounded by his family.Gary was born on June 1, 1941 in Burlington. He was the son of James and Janette Danielson Blott of Burlington.Gary graduated from Burlington High School in 1959 and started working for Murray Ironworks. He then joined the Army National Guard stationed in San Antonio, Texas, as a medic.On Aug. 19, 1967, he married Sharon Evans of Fort Madison. They were married in Fort Madison at First Baptist Church and have been married 55 years.In his younger years, Gary raised quail and English-Setter bird dogs, entering field trials, winning many first-place trophies. He enjoyed wood carving, cars, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and going to his grandchildren’s sporting events. He also enjoyed taking cruises and visiting National Parks with his wife and family. Yellowstone was his favorite.He was a lifelong member of the West Burlington United Methodist Church and served on various committees.In Sept. of 2007, Gary retired with 48 years of service as a Senior Design Coordinator with Dresser-Rand [formerly Murray Ironworks / Murray-Tuthill].He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter Shelly [Tom] Watts of Burlington; three grandchildren Alex [Courtney] Gaddis of Bethesda Maryland, Tyler [Samantha] Watts of Fort Madison, and Sami Watts of Iowa City.He was preceded in death by his father and mother.A visitation will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel with family present, Thursday, May 25, from 5 to 7 p.m.The funeral service will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel, Friday, May 26, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Nancy Sutherland officiating. Interment services at Aspen Grove Cemetery immediately following. A time of food and fellowship will be held at West Burlington United Methodist Church after services.A memorial has been established for West Burlington United Methodist Church.

Gary Lee Blott

Viola Fern Bellon Howie, age, 72, of Lovilia, died on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa, under the care of Hospice of Davis and Wapello Counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Viola was born in Corydon, on Oct. 22, 1950, to John Ambrose and Twila Maxine Haff Bellon.&nbsp; She grew up in Corydon and graduated from the Wayne County High School with the class of 1969.&nbsp; On Nov. 28, 1969, she was united in marriage to James Edward Howie at the First Assemblies of God Church in Corydon.&nbsp; Viola and James were blessed with four children, Chawn, Heather, James R., and Joshua, and shared 53 years of marriage prior to her passing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Viola worked as a shipping supervisor at Lamont Limited in Burlington for many years.&nbsp; After retiring, she went back to work in food service for the Burlington school district.&nbsp; Viola enjoyed bowling, archery, and needlework.&nbsp; She loved to go for walks in the park with her husband.&nbsp; Above all else, Viola loved her family and Jesus and she cherished all of the time she spent with her family.

Viola is survived by her husband Jim; her 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 Burlington; six grandchildren, Caleb (Alicia) Underwood, Rachael Burk, Emily Underwood, Jacob Underwood, Laney Burk, and Alyssa Duke; two great-grandchildren, Nadia Higeons-Vasquez and Theodore Underwood; and siblings, Victor Bellon (her twin) and Carmen Bellon.&nbsp; Viola is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Viola was preceded in death by her parents, John and Twila Bellon; brothers, John D., Terry, and Albert; and sisters, Shelby, Leona, and Nancy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Viola’s family present to greet family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia. An open memorial has been established for the family.

Viola Fern Bellon Howie, age, 72, of Lovilia, died on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa, under the care of Hospice of Davis and Wapello Counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Viola was born in Corydon, on Oct. 22, 1950, to John Ambrose and Twila Maxine Haff Bellon.&nbsp; She grew up in Corydon and graduated from the Wayne County High School with the class of 1969.&nbsp; On Nov. 28, 1969, she was united in marriage to James Edward Howie at the First Assemblies of God Church in Corydon.&nbsp; Viola and James were blessed with four children, Chawn, Heather, James R., and Joshua, and shared 53 years of marriage prior to her passing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Viola worked as a shipping supervisor at Lamont Limited in Burlington for many years.&nbsp; After retiring, she went back to work in food service for the Burlington school district.&nbsp; Viola enjoyed bowling, archery, and needlework.&nbsp; She loved to go for walks in the park with her husband.&nbsp; Above all else, Viola loved her family and Jesus and she cherished all of the time she spent with her family.Viola is survived by her husband Jim; her 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 Burlington; six grandchildren, Caleb (Alicia) Underwood, Rachael Burk, Emily Underwood, Jacob Underwood, Laney Burk, and Alyssa Duke; two great-grandchildren, Nadia Higeons-Vasquez and Theodore Underwood; and siblings, Victor Bellon (her twin) and Carmen Bellon.&nbsp; Viola is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;Viola was preceded in death by her parents, John and Twila Bellon; brothers, John D., Terry, and Albert; and sisters, Shelby, Leona, and Nancy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Viola’s family present to greet family and friends.A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia. An open memorial has been established for the family.

Viola Fern Bellon Howie

Victor Sereda, 74, of Burlington, died Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the Windmill Manor in Coralville.

Born Oct. 18, 1948, in Germany, he was the son of Harry and Polina Rokitiauska Sereda. On Oct. 19, 1973, he married Lila Ashby in Burlington.&nbsp;

Victor graduated from Burlington High School.&nbsp;

Victor was a United States Marine Veteran, serving in Vietnam as part of the 1st Marine Division in Guadalcanal from 68-69.

After serving in the Marines, he worked as a track inspector for the Burlington Northern Railroad for 20 years.

Victor enjoyed hiking, woodworking, camping, boating and just being in nature. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren fish in the pond.

Survivors include his wife, Lila Sereda; son, Mark Sereda of Burlington; step-sons, Randy Boyd of West Branch, and Rodney Boyd of Phoenix, Ariz.; step-daughter, Julie Boyd of Phoenix, Ariz.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Bonnie (Jack) Warnick of Kansas, Mo; brothers, Stan (Lorraine) Sereda of Spokane, Wash., &nbsp;Jim Sereda of Burlington, and Jon (Lillian) Sereda of Burlington; brother-in-law, Gary Duckstein; sisters-in-law, Mary and Marie; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Victor was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Mike and Steve, and one sister, Val Duckstein.

A celebration of life for Victor will be held at a later date.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Victor's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684893298056.jpeg" alt="Victor Sereda" />
 <figcaption>Victor Sereda</figcaption>
 </figure>Victor Sereda, 74, of Burlington, died Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the Windmill Manor in Coralville.Born Oct. 18, 1948, in Germany, he was the son of Harry and Polina Rokitiauska Sereda. On Oct. 19, 1973, he married Lila Ashby in Burlington.&nbsp;Victor graduated from Burlington High School.&nbsp;Victor was a United States Marine Veteran, serving in Vietnam as part of the 1st Marine Division in Guadalcanal from 68-69.After serving in the Marines, he worked as a track inspector for the Burlington Northern Railroad for 20 years.Victor enjoyed hiking, woodworking, camping, boating and just being in nature. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren fish in the pond.Survivors include his wife, Lila Sereda; son, Mark Sereda of Burlington; step-sons, Randy Boyd of West Branch, and Rodney Boyd of Phoenix, Ariz.; step-daughter, Julie Boyd of Phoenix, Ariz.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Bonnie (Jack) Warnick of Kansas, Mo; brothers, Stan (Lorraine) Sereda of Spokane, Wash., &nbsp;Jim Sereda of Burlington, and Jon (Lillian) Sereda of Burlington; brother-in-law, Gary Duckstein; sisters-in-law, Mary and Marie; as well as several nieces and nephews.Victor was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Mike and Steve, and one sister, Val Duckstein.A celebration of life for Victor will be held at a later date.Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Victor's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.

Victor Sereda

Michael David Heiniger, 68, of Burlington, died Monday, May 22, 2023.

Born Sept. 5, 1954 in Burlington, he was the son of Harvey and Leola Frank Heiniger. He was of the Apostolic faith.

Mike graduated from Mediapolis High School in 1972 and attended Southeastern Community College.

He married Patricia Alexander in 1984. They later divorced. On April 11, 2019, he married Becky Hand Stephens in Oregon.

Mike worked for Deery Brothers in the parts department for 35 years where he retired as the parts manager.

Mike was a member of the NRA. He enjoyed rock hunting, hunting and fishing, trapping and being on the river. He loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife Becky of Burlington; five sons Jesse (Charlianne) Blaise of Quincy, Ill., Christopher (Angelica) Heiniger of Alabama, Leonard (Tabitha) Heiniger of Davenport, David Heiniger of North Liberty, Daniel (Brittany) Heiniger of Norwalk; two daughters Joscelyn (Taylor) May of Orlando, Fla. and Kaitlyn (Kyle Brown) Stephens of Burlington; seven grandchildren Jordyn, Collin, Grayson, Parker, Theron, Lexi, Dean; two brothers Tim (Gena) Heiniger of West Burlington and Doug (Tari) Heiniger of Mediapolis and one sister Sandy (Larry) Heckenburg of Georgia.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry Heiniger.

The funeral service for Mike will be 11am Friday, May 26, 2023, at Lunning Chapel with Mr. Dale Frank and Mr. Jon Schmidgall officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Apostolic Church Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684851872098.jpeg" alt="Michael Heiniger" />
 <figcaption>Michael Heiniger</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael David Heiniger, 68, of Burlington, died Monday, May 22, 2023.Born Sept. 5, 1954 in Burlington, he was the son of Harvey and Leola Frank Heiniger. He was of the Apostolic faith.Mike graduated from Mediapolis High School in 1972 and attended Southeastern Community College.He married Patricia Alexander in 1984. They later divorced. On April 11, 2019, he married Becky Hand Stephens in Oregon.Mike worked for Deery Brothers in the parts department for 35 years where he retired as the parts manager.Mike was a member of the NRA. He enjoyed rock hunting, hunting and fishing, trapping and being on the river. He loved spending time with his family.Survivors include his wife Becky of Burlington; five sons Jesse (Charlianne) Blaise of Quincy, Ill., Christopher (Angelica) Heiniger of Alabama, Leonard (Tabitha) Heiniger of Davenport, David Heiniger of North Liberty, Daniel (Brittany) Heiniger of Norwalk; two daughters Joscelyn (Taylor) May of Orlando, Fla. and Kaitlyn (Kyle Brown) Stephens of Burlington; seven grandchildren Jordyn, Collin, Grayson, Parker, Theron, Lexi, Dean; two brothers Tim (Gena) Heiniger of West Burlington and Doug (Tari) Heiniger of Mediapolis and one sister Sandy (Larry) Heckenburg of Georgia.He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry Heiniger.The funeral service for Mike will be 11am Friday, May 26, 2023, at Lunning Chapel with Mr. Dale Frank and Mr. Jon Schmidgall officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Apostolic Church Cemetery.A memorial has been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society.

Michael David Heiniger

David Waldorf, 77, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Genesis Medical Center East, Davenport in Davenport.

Born March 20, 1946, in San Diego, Calif., he was the son of Joseph Phillip and Phyllis June Baird Waldorf. He married Sheila Buescher, and they later divorced. On June 26, 1995, he married Karen Louise Nord in Burlington. She died on May 7, 2020.

He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving four years, and served in Vietnam.

He worked as a social worker, and then became a truant officer. David was a self taught electrical engineer, and worked on many projects.

David was a Major and squadron commander of the Civil Air Patrol, and served as the president for the local group. He was a private pilot and loved to fly. David enjoyed being a ham radio operator, and playing &nbsp;guitar in a small band called The Soggy Bottom Band.

Survivors include his brother, John (Sarah) Waldorf of Denver, Colo.; sister, Annette (David) Shaffer of Burlington; niece, Brianna (Jared) Burma of Waukee; great-nephew, Zadick; and two step-sons, Joel Murtinger of St. Cloud, Fla. and step-son, Steve Murtinger.

Besides his wife Karen, he was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Steven.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

The Graveside Memorial Service for Mr. Waldorf will be 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday May 24, 2023 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.&nbsp;

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting David's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684779600924.jpeg" alt="David Waldorf" />
 <figcaption>David Waldorf</figcaption>
 </figure>David Waldorf, 77, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Genesis Medical Center East, Davenport in Davenport.Born March 20, 1946, in San Diego, Calif., he was the son of Joseph Phillip and Phyllis June Baird Waldorf. He married Sheila Buescher, and they later divorced. On June 26, 1995, he married Karen Louise Nord in Burlington. She died on May 7, 2020.He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving four years, and served in Vietnam.He worked as a social worker, and then became a truant officer. David was a self taught electrical engineer, and worked on many projects.David was a Major and squadron commander of the Civil Air Patrol, and served as the president for the local group. He was a private pilot and loved to fly. David enjoyed being a ham radio operator, and playing &nbsp;guitar in a small band called The Soggy Bottom Band.Survivors include his brother, John (Sarah) Waldorf of Denver, Colo.; sister, Annette (David) Shaffer of Burlington; niece, Brianna (Jared) Burma of Waukee; great-nephew, Zadick; and two step-sons, Joel Murtinger of St. Cloud, Fla. and step-son, Steve Murtinger.Besides his wife Karen, he was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Steven.Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.The Graveside Memorial Service for Mr. Waldorf will be 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday May 24, 2023 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.&nbsp;Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting David's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.

David Waldorf

Dewain Allan Wixom, 61, of West Burlington, died Thursday, May 18, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was born June 11, 1961 in Burlington, the son of Francis and Betty Joan McCabe Wixom.&nbsp;&nbsp;He married Kathy Norton and they later divorced.

He graduated&nbsp;from Morning SunHigh School in 1979, and enlisted in the Air Force in 1980.&nbsp;&nbsp;He served five years as a communications expert. He returned to Burlington and worked as an electronic technician at GE for the next 33 years, retiring at 59.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed target shooting, woodworking, building computers, playing with electronics, and especially his pets.

Dewain is survived by his mother of New London; three sons, Chad Wixom of Muscatine, Daniel (Jenna) Wixom of Mt. Pleasant, and Cody (Bambi) Wixom of New London; grandchildren Delania, Troy, Savannah and Izabelle; three brothers, Gary (Darcie) of Morning Sun, Roger of Burlington, and Jeff (Tina) of Tucson, Arizona; and four nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his father.

Graveside services will be held&nbsp;at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 24, 2023, in Burge Cemetery, New London.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pastor David Mixon will officiate with Military Rites presented by the Henry County Honor Guard.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will begin&nbsp;after 9 a.m. on Wednesdayat Elliott Chapel, with the family greeting friends&nbsp;from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a procession to the cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial has been established to the Des Moines County Animal Shelter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dewain Allan Wixom, 61, of West Burlington, died Thursday, May 18, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was born June 11, 1961 in Burlington, the son of Francis and Betty Joan McCabe Wixom.&nbsp;&nbsp;He married Kathy Norton and they later divorced.He graduated&nbsp;from Morning SunHigh School in 1979, and enlisted in the Air Force in 1980.&nbsp;&nbsp;He served five years as a communications expert. He returned to Burlington and worked as an electronic technician at GE for the next 33 years, retiring at 59.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed target shooting, woodworking, building computers, playing with electronics, and especially his pets.Dewain is survived by his mother of New London; three sons, Chad Wixom of Muscatine, Daniel (Jenna) Wixom of Mt. Pleasant, and Cody (Bambi) Wixom of New London; grandchildren Delania, Troy, Savannah and Izabelle; three brothers, Gary (Darcie) of Morning Sun, Roger of Burlington, and Jeff (Tina) of Tucson, Arizona; and four nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his father.Graveside services will be held&nbsp;at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 24, 2023, in Burge Cemetery, New London.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pastor David Mixon will officiate with Military Rites presented by the Henry County Honor Guard.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will begin&nbsp;after 9 a.m. on Wednesdayat Elliott Chapel, with the family greeting friends&nbsp;from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a procession to the cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial has been established to the Des Moines County Animal Shelter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dewain Allan Wixom

Richard "Dick" Wright, 88, of Burlington, died Friday, May 19, 2023, at Addington Place in Burlington. Just a week after celebrating his 88th birthday.

Born May 12, 1935, in Burlington, he was the son of &nbsp;Lucille Kampschneider and Beauford Wright.&nbsp;

He worked as a bank teller while attending SCC and remained employed at First National Bank (now US Bank) his entire career. He eventually earned his banking degree from the University of Wisconsin and gained a reputation as a stickler for accuracy.

Dick loved a good joke and made us laugh (or groan) often. He also loved sports and was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and St. Louis Cardinals. He gained attention as a baseball and basketball player while attending Burlington's Catholic schools and continued to earn accolades as a star basketball player when he attended SCC. He remained involved in sports until he began to lose his vision in his 70's. As a young adult he officiated baseball, basketball and football. Dick believed in community service by his service in the National Guard, working for Catholic Charities as well as volunteering on the zoning board of adjustment and city planning commission. He was a &nbsp;member of the YMCA board, Knights of Columbus, Jaycees, and SCC Alumni. He also enjoyed golf, handball and especially tennis. Dick was the 1st certified USRSA racquet stringer in Iowa and ran Shoquoquon Tennis Club for several years after retiring from USBank.

Survivors include wife of 62 years, Mary Kay Spading Wright of Burlington; daughters, Rita (Gary) Willkinson of Peachtree City, Ga., Teresa (Fred) Cowens of Naples, Fla., and Linda (Joe) Coen of Newton; his six grandchildren, whom he was very proud of; and his sisters, Robin Wright Langston and JoAnn Bryan.

A celebration of life for Dick will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Addington Place, 5175 West Ave. Burlington.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Divine Mercy Parish or St Jude Children's Research Hospital

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684651657360.jpeg" alt="Richard “Dick” Wright" />
 <figcaption>Richard “Dick” Wright</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard "Dick" Wright, 88, of Burlington, died Friday, May 19, 2023, at Addington Place in Burlington. Just a week after celebrating his 88th birthday.Born May 12, 1935, in Burlington, he was the son of &nbsp;Lucille Kampschneider and Beauford Wright.&nbsp;He worked as a bank teller while attending SCC and remained employed at First National Bank (now US Bank) his entire career. He eventually earned his banking degree from the University of Wisconsin and gained a reputation as a stickler for accuracy.Dick loved a good joke and made us laugh (or groan) often. He also loved sports and was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and St. Louis Cardinals. He gained attention as a baseball and basketball player while attending Burlington's Catholic schools and continued to earn accolades as a star basketball player when he attended SCC. He remained involved in sports until he began to lose his vision in his 70's. As a young adult he officiated baseball, basketball and football. Dick believed in community service by his service in the National Guard, working for Catholic Charities as well as volunteering on the zoning board of adjustment and city planning commission. He was a &nbsp;member of the YMCA board, Knights of Columbus, Jaycees, and SCC Alumni. He also enjoyed golf, handball and especially tennis. Dick was the 1st certified USRSA racquet stringer in Iowa and ran Shoquoquon Tennis Club for several years after retiring from USBank.Survivors include wife of 62 years, Mary Kay Spading Wright of Burlington; daughters, Rita (Gary) Willkinson of Peachtree City, Ga., Teresa (Fred) Cowens of Naples, Fla., and Linda (Joe) Coen of Newton; his six grandchildren, whom he was very proud of; and his sisters, Robin Wright Langston and JoAnn Bryan.Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.A celebration of life for Dick will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Addington Place, 5175 West Ave. Burlington.In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Divine Mercy Parish or St Jude Children's Research Hospital

Richard "Dick" Wright

Janet June Sherer, 84, of Burlington, died on Friday, May 5, 2023 at Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born on June 29, 1938 at her parent’s home near Oakville, she was the daughter of Oscar and Zella Swise Youngman. Her family moved to Winfield and raised on the family farm. She had many fond memories of life in a small town where she would eventually meet the love of her life. On July 26, 1958, she married Richard Neale Sherer at Grace Methodist Church in Burlington. They remained in Burlington, Richard’s hometown, to raise their family. Richard died May 16, 1999.

Janet was a 1956 graduate of Winfield High School and the Burlington Business College. For 15 years she worked as an engineer technician for IRC/TRW. After the company moved operations to Texas, she worked at Bangert Computer Systems. Later, she owned and operated Jan’s Computer Secretarial Service before retiring in 2000.

Janet was a woman of many passions and interests. Her green thumb was evident in her beautiful gardens, where she spent countless hours nurturing vibrant flowers and plants, always making sure the local birds and deer had a safe refuge.

An avid collector, Janet had a keen eye for antiques and enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. She delighted in discovering hidden treasures and adding them to her growing collections.

Another passion of Janet's was genealogy and family history. She meticulously researched their ancestries, piecing together the stories of their relatives and preserving their legacies for future generations. Her dedication to uncovering their family's roots was truly admirable and will be built upon for generations to come.

In the kitchen, Janet’s culinary skills shone bright. Her cooking and baking talents delighted family and friends alike. She knew how to feed a gathering, which was especially showcased for many years when family would be hosted for Christmas Eve gatherings. Her creations were made with love and enjoyed by all.

Beyond her hobbies, Janet possessed a deep passion for politics. She followed current events closely, engaging in meaningful discussions with family and various friends she made across the country while advocating for causes she believed in.

Janet truly left a legacy that her family will carry on in her memory. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Survivors include her children, Kim (Jeff) Royer, Kurt (Jill) Sherer, and Kelly (Jon) Brice, 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren (soon to be 19), one sister, Gwen Rodruck, one brother, Larry Youngman, many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, brothers Myron and Melvin Youngman, one sister, Eleanor Evans Davis, sister- and brothers-in-law, and niece Peggy Reneau.

Richard and Janet will be reunited on their 65th wedding anniversary. The private family graveside service will be July 26 at Aspen Grove Cemetery with a celebration of their lives to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Southeast&nbsp;Iowa Regional Hospice or Special Needs Foundation in Janet's honor.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684538162990.jpeg" alt="Janet Sherer" />
 <figcaption>Janet Sherer</figcaption>
 </figure>Janet June Sherer, 84, of Burlington, died on Friday, May 5, 2023 at Hospice House in West Burlington.Born on June 29, 1938 at her parent’s home near Oakville, she was the daughter of Oscar and Zella Swise Youngman. Her family moved to Winfield and raised on the family farm. She had many fond memories of life in a small town where she would eventually meet the love of her life. On July 26, 1958, she married Richard Neale Sherer at Grace Methodist Church in Burlington. They remained in Burlington, Richard’s hometown, to raise their family. Richard died May 16, 1999.Janet was a 1956 graduate of Winfield High School and the Burlington Business College. For 15 years she worked as an engineer technician for IRC/TRW. After the company moved operations to Texas, she worked at Bangert Computer Systems. Later, she owned and operated Jan’s Computer Secretarial Service before retiring in 2000.Janet was a woman of many passions and interests. Her green thumb was evident in her beautiful gardens, where she spent countless hours nurturing vibrant flowers and plants, always making sure the local birds and deer had a safe refuge.An avid collector, Janet had a keen eye for antiques and enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. She delighted in discovering hidden treasures and adding them to her growing collections.Another passion of Janet's was genealogy and family history. She meticulously researched their ancestries, piecing together the stories of their relatives and preserving their legacies for future generations. Her dedication to uncovering their family's roots was truly admirable and will be built upon for generations to come.In the kitchen, Janet’s culinary skills shone bright. Her cooking and baking talents delighted family and friends alike. She knew how to feed a gathering, which was especially showcased for many years when family would be hosted for Christmas Eve gatherings. Her creations were made with love and enjoyed by all.Beyond her hobbies, Janet possessed a deep passion for politics. She followed current events closely, engaging in meaningful discussions with family and various friends she made across the country while advocating for causes she believed in.Janet truly left a legacy that her family will carry on in her memory. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.Survivors include her children, Kim (Jeff) Royer, Kurt (Jill) Sherer, and Kelly (Jon) Brice, 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren (soon to be 19), one sister, Gwen Rodruck, one brother, Larry Youngman, many nieces, nephews and dear friends.She was preceded in death by her husband, brothers Myron and Melvin Youngman, one sister, Eleanor Evans Davis, sister- and brothers-in-law, and niece Peggy Reneau.Richard and Janet will be reunited on their 65th wedding anniversary. The private family graveside service will be July 26 at Aspen Grove Cemetery with a celebration of their lives to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Southeast&nbsp;Iowa Regional Hospice or Special Needs Foundation in Janet's honor. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

Janet June Sherer

Linda Joyce Romkey, 77, of Muscatine, died Thursday, May 18, 2023, at her residence.

Born April 30, 1946, in Iowa City, Iowa, she was the daughter of Raymond and Ruth Corman Genth. She married Michael Romkey on Aug. 3, 1968. He died Nov. 20, 2021.

Linda was a 4th grade teacher for most of her working career and a stay-at-home mom.

She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca (Rick) Caskey of Muscatine; three grandchildren, Jonathan Caskey, Joshua Caskey and Jessica (Timothy) Cable and five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

The graveside funeral service and interment for Mrs. Romkey will be 11 a.m. Monday, May 22 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.

Lunning Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684537813554.jpeg" alt="Linda Joyce Romkey" />
 <figcaption>Linda Joyce Romkey</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Joyce Romkey, 77, of Muscatine, died Thursday, May 18, 2023, at her residence.Born April 30, 1946, in Iowa City, Iowa, she was the daughter of Raymond and Ruth Corman Genth. She married Michael Romkey on Aug. 3, 1968. He died Nov. 20, 2021.Linda was a 4th grade teacher for most of her working career and a stay-at-home mom.She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca (Rick) Caskey of Muscatine; three grandchildren, Jonathan Caskey, Joshua Caskey and Jessica (Timothy) Cable and five great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.The graveside funeral service and interment for Mrs. Romkey will be 11 a.m. Monday, May 22 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.Lunning Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Linda Joyce Romkey

Betty Anne Graber, 78, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

She was born Nov. 29, 1944, in Hannibal, Mo. at St. Elizabeth Hospital. She was the daughter of Rostron E. and Mary Anna Williams Juett. Aug. 1, 1992, she and Daniel D. Graber were married at Lowell Church by Pastor Ian Armstrong.

Betty was a 1962 graduate of Burlington High School. She attended Southeastern Community College and graduated in 1964 with an Associate Degree. She then attended Northeast Missouri State Teacher’s College in Kirksville, Mo., and graduated in 1966 with a degree in elementary education.

Following graduation, Betty returned to her hometown, Burlington, and was hired to teach fourth grade at Washington School. She taught fourth grade at Washington School for the next 36 years. Following that, Betty taught Title 1 math at Corse School for 3 years. After that, she retired from teaching for the Burlington Community School District. Feeling she was not done with teaching, she spent the next 9 years substituting for Burlington, teaching preschool to 5th grade. In 2015 she retired again, after teaching for nearly 50 years. Working with children, teachers, principals, and curriculum was her pride and joy.

Mrs. Graber asked Jesus into her life at the age of 11 and was baptized at Oak Street Baptist Church. She also taught for 50 years in various churches telling children’s stories, teaching children’s church, teaching vacation Bible school, and camp counseling. She also played the organ and piano at various churches.

Mrs. Graber loved her animals, having seven dogs from time to time. She camped with her husband and both were members of Good Sam’s Wapello County camping club. She and her husband were avid antiquers and had many collections.

Attending many bluegrass concerts was a highlight.

She loved being with her family. She has one brother, Alfred (Lek) Juett having retired in Las Vegas, Nevada, and moving to Thailand; one sister Helen in St. Paul, Minn. She is also survived by two nieces Amber (Brian) of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Heather (Scott) in Roseville, Minn. To Heather and Scott, three children have been born and were the apple of their great aunt’s eyes. They are Charlotte, Felix, and Nathaniel.

She loved playing games with family and friends, especially cards. She enjoyed cross-stitching.

Every Sunday evening she ate at Mazzio’s with her church friends. Their group had been together for over 25 years.

The memorial service for Mrs. Graber will be at 1 p.m. at Lunning Chapel on Tuesday, May 23 with Steve Parker officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be in Green Mound Cemetery in rural Trenton.

According to her wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684437902584.jpeg" alt="Betty Anne Graber" />
 <figcaption>Betty Anne Graber</figcaption>
 </figure>Betty Anne Graber, 78, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.She was born Nov. 29, 1944, in Hannibal, Mo. at St. Elizabeth Hospital. She was the daughter of Rostron E. and Mary Anna Williams Juett. Aug. 1, 1992, she and Daniel D. Graber were married at Lowell Church by Pastor Ian Armstrong.Betty was a 1962 graduate of Burlington High School. She attended Southeastern Community College and graduated in 1964 with an Associate Degree. She then attended Northeast Missouri State Teacher’s College in Kirksville, Mo., and graduated in 1966 with a degree in elementary education.Following graduation, Betty returned to her hometown, Burlington, and was hired to teach fourth grade at Washington School. She taught fourth grade at Washington School for the next 36 years. Following that, Betty taught Title 1 math at Corse School for 3 years. After that, she retired from teaching for the Burlington Community School District. Feeling she was not done with teaching, she spent the next 9 years substituting for Burlington, teaching preschool to 5th grade. In 2015 she retired again, after teaching for nearly 50 years. Working with children, teachers, principals, and curriculum was her pride and joy.Mrs. Graber asked Jesus into her life at the age of 11 and was baptized at Oak Street Baptist Church. She also taught for 50 years in various churches telling children’s stories, teaching children’s church, teaching vacation Bible school, and camp counseling. She also played the organ and piano at various churches.Mrs. Graber loved her animals, having seven dogs from time to time. She camped with her husband and both were members of Good Sam’s Wapello County camping club. She and her husband were avid antiquers and had many collections.Attending many bluegrass concerts was a highlight.She loved being with her family. She has one brother, Alfred (Lek) Juett having retired in Las Vegas, Nevada, and moving to Thailand; one sister Helen in St. Paul, Minn. She is also survived by two nieces Amber (Brian) of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Heather (Scott) in Roseville, Minn. To Heather and Scott, three children have been born and were the apple of their great aunt’s eyes. They are Charlotte, Felix, and Nathaniel.She loved playing games with family and friends, especially cards. She enjoyed cross-stitching.Every Sunday evening she ate at Mazzio’s with her church friends. Their group had been together for over 25 years.The memorial service for Mrs. Graber will be at 1 p.m. at Lunning Chapel on Tuesday, May 23 with Steve Parker officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be in Green Mound Cemetery in rural Trenton.According to her wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Des Moines County Humane Society.

Betty Anne Graber

Matthew John Orth, 29, of Seattle, died Oct. 24, 2022 in Whatcom County, Wa.

Born Nov. 17, 1992, in San Diego, Calif., he was the son of Matthew Alan and Lisa Renteria Orth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1684437197187.jpeg" alt="Matthew Orth" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Orth</figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew John Orth, 29, of Seattle, died Oct. 24, 2022 in Whatcom County, Wa.Born Nov. 17, 1992, in San Diego, Calif., he was the son of Matthew Alan and Lisa Renteria Orth.He graduated from Burlington High School in 2011 and later received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Iowa State University. After graduating, he began a new journey to become a software developer. He moved to Seattle and realized his dream of living in the Pacific Northwest.&nbsp;Matt loved to play disc golf, video games, take long walks in the neighborhood, and learn new things. He was passionate about the environment and everything else he believed in. He enjoyed camping, being outdoors regardless of the weather conditions, and was always ready for impromptu adventures. He loved being around animals and could always be counted on to play board games, lawn games, or anything competitive. He had the ability to empathize with anyone and have a conversation about anything. He especially enjoyed discussing film, music, and sports. His favorite movies to watch were Twister, Harry Potter, Marvel, and horror films. He read books that expanded his mind and made him a better person overall. Family was very important to him, and he was very close with his brothers.Survivors include his parents, Matthew and Lisa Orth of Burlington; two brothers, Ian Castillo of Iowa City, and Joshua Orth of Iowa City; paternal grandmother, Mary Rose Ann Orth of Burlington; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and best friends, Rachel and Travis McCarthy, and Miles Reichenbach.He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, John Orth, and maternal grandparents, Alex H. Renteria and Sanjuana Del Real.Family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m., Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.The memorial service for Mr. Orth will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Prugh Funeral Service, with Rev. James Flattery officiating. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the service.A memorial has been established for N.A.M.I. (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Southeast Iowa Chapter.

Obituaries